Gamescom 2025: A Glimpse into the Future of Fighting Game Peripherals
The Gamescom expo always acts as a crystal ball, offering a sneak peek at the future of the video game market. The 2025 edition, in particular, unveiled some exciting trends, with new hardware designed specifically for the competitive fighting game scene. We had the chance to go hands-on with some of these upcoming products, and here’s what we think.
The Rise of Specialized Fighting Game Hardware
We’re seeing a definite trend: dedicated controllers and fight sticks, meticulously designed for the unique demands of fighting games, are becoming more prominent. This moves away from simply customizing existing products and instead focuses on providing players with purpose-built equipment. This shift suggests a recognition of the growing importance of the competitive fighting game community and a desire to cater to its specific needs. This will mean specialized features like button layouts and ergonomics optimized for fast inputs and precision, which will be an advantage for any serious player.
Several manufacturers are joining the fray. Among them, Turtle Beach showcased both a new controller and a “leverless” fight stick. For those unfamiliar, we’ll break down our impressions of these new products.
Turtle Beach Victrix Pro BFG: A Controller Tailored for Versus Fighting
We got our hands on the Turtle Beach Victrix Pro BFG. While fully functional for any game, this controller’s true strength lies in its customization options. The modular design allows players to quickly swap out components. The aim is to provide quick and efficient customisation by changing the modules of the controller with a dedicated module versus fighting. The concept is close to the “Stealth Pivot”, but with separate modules.
The controller feels great in hand. The modular components are easily swapped, and the quality feels premium. Given the price point, that’s what you’d expect, but it’s still a good sign.
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The controller is available in black or white, and for both Xbox and PlayStation platforms. It includes an extra module, and interchangeable joysticks with different heights. The whole package comes in a carrying case, along with extra accessories for more customization.
Arcade Sticks are Making a Comeback, Especially in France
Arcade sticks, or “fight sticks” when specifically designed for fighting games, offer a classic experience, emulating the arcade cabinets of yesteryear. The goal is to return to the roots of gaming (which this Gen Z author has never experienced!).
The Turtle Beach Victrix Pro KO is a “leverless” fight stick. Leverless fight sticks skip the traditional joystick and use buttons for directional input. These products are aimed at a very specific niche, but judging from our time with it, the quality and build are top-notch. As with the controller, customization is a key feature, allowing you to change the switches under the buttons and the buttons themselves.
We were pleasantly surprised by the build quality and feel. The benefits for fighting game players are readily apparent. It will be fascinating to compare it against offerings from other brands.
Why France Will Be a Key Market for These Products
As mentioned before, both products are designed with fighting games in mind. They cater to everyone from casual players to esports professionals. The versatility allows for a high level of customisation to suit individual preferences and budgets.
France is a particularly enthusiastic market for fighting games. Numerous competitions and tournaments are held, and consumers have a strong affinity for these games. The roots of fighting games in France go back to the late 90s and early 2000s. Arcades were everywhere, and fighting games were a cornerstone of social gaming, fostering competition among friends after school. Moreover, a rich ecosystem has developed, with popular brands now targeting the growing market.
Did you know? The fighting game community in France has grown significantly over the last decade, mirroring the global trend. This growth has been fueled by increased accessibility through streaming platforms and more community events.
Pro Tip:
- Consider the game(s) you play most often when choosing a controller or fight stick.
- Experiment with different button layouts and stick types to find what feels best.
- Research the build quality and reliability of different brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What’s the difference between a fight stick and a standard controller? Fight sticks offer a more arcade-like experience, with buttons and a joystick. Standard controllers typically use a D-pad and analog sticks.
- Are leverless fight sticks better than traditional fight sticks? It depends on your preference! Leverless sticks use buttons for directional input, which some players find faster and more precise.
- Are these specialized controllers worth the investment? If you are serious about fighting games and want to improve your performance, a dedicated controller or fight stick can be a worthwhile investment.
Ready to step up your fighting game experience? What are your thoughts on these new peripherals? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below! Explore more in-depth articles on gaming hardware and the latest trends here.
