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If this all sounds intimidating, it's important to note that all the extra bits and bobs are totally optional. While playing I never once felt as though they might come off accidentally. The different pieces are all magnetised so you can pull them in and out incredibly easy, even in the middle of a game. Use one really tall and one really short stick if you think that's best. Like rounded sticks like the PS3 had? Just snap them in. Most importantly, there are three differently shaped and textured thumbsticks to choose from. In the box you not only get the controller but a selection of different parts that can radically change how the unit feels and performs. The main selling point of the controller is its customisation. The one less-than-stellar design choice is that the pad still runs on AA batteries rather than a rechargeable pack, which is weird but tolerable. Meanwhile the underside of the controller is covered in a grippy rubber that will prevent your hands getting all slick on the matte plastic. Anyone with an Xbox One knows the plastic on the controller's thumbsticks makes for a lot of friction and can even grate away with extended use, while the metal version on the Elite feels super smooth and has been reinforced to prevent breakage. Metal accents that give the unit a nice heft, but they're not just for show.
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The rear of the pad, with all four detachable paddles in place.įor starters, it just feels so much nicer than the stock Xbox One pad.
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