Ever go to an event and feel the need to stand out, or been looking for that next gaming accessory purchase? There are a tons a reasons for gamers to get custom controllers, (ie Team Unity, No-Slow, Showing off..) The Controller Shop gives you this service, below you will find my unboxing and first impressions:
This review will cover the following:
- Design/Performance
- Pro Package (Omnigrips™ and MIL-SPEC Controller Case)
- Final Thoughts
Design/Performance
The painters over at TCS had a simple form that would give them all the information needed to make my controllers, it was broken down easily and every option had an example and explanation. I went for the Tail0r-Made Pearl Xbox 360 Controller, got some options like the SureGrip™, a durable, military-grade coating that provides tremendous grip and provides a rubber-like, matte finish. And this works as advertise, with my time at MLG I had seen other shops work before and felt how the paint would wear off or the controller itself just seem sticky due to the paint, this SureGrip not only gives you that clean matte finish but works as advertised, it keeps it grip even after long hours of gaming and I have not experienced any wear or discoloration on the paint. I would hear a lot that after a weekend with other shops controllers that the paint would wear out and eventually become raw. The finished product though was amazing, just more than what I expected and was painted with every detail in mind. The lettering and full matching buttons to the trim gives it that attention to detail and extra matching look.
No slow was something else that I tested, for those that do not know, Slow Turn is an inherent and absurdly common product defect in the left and right analogs on nearly ALL Xbox 360 controllers. Basically the Y-Axis or X-Axis will turn at a different or “slower” rate of speed than what should occur.There are two ways to check for slowturn:
- Get on a computer and check the X-Y axis measurements
- Purchase Slowturn Checker in the Xbox Live Arcade for 80MP
My unit was working as advertise, this is something that competitive gamers are very particular about because when competing for a cash prize, the slightest lack of response in your controller can cost you a match. Only thing I would do is possibly advertise the
Pro Package
So when ordering you will see an option for a ‘Pro Package’, what is this? Well you get actually get some extras that will be worth your money. First off is the Omnigrips™ these are soft, grip enhancements for your thumb sticks, and are available in nine different colors. These are good for a better grip on your thumbsticks, especially if you want to keep your custom thumbsticks looking good, these will help as well. This is a good accessory when it comes to just stock controllers as well if you have worn out grips on your controller. Getting different colors in the Pro Package is a plus because you can use different colors to match your controller and have extras for other controllers you may own already.
The best part of the Pro Package is the MIL-SPEC Controller Case, this airtight, watertight, and crush-proof case is exactly what you need. This case keeps dust and moisture out of your controller and also protects it from scratches and bumps. This also comes with your name on the case. Some might ask why need the case? If you’re traveling one you can protect your controller as it goes with you in travels or just around your home in general. Also, would be good for events to quickly identify your controller from teammates and keep them from tangling among one another.
Final Thoughts
This is one the best custom controller jobs I seen and with attending MLG events before I seen my share. They delivered the controller when they said they would, met all my request, blew me away when I first saw the controller, and made sure that no-slow was working correctly. The price for these are competitive with other shops out there(all depending on what you want done). One thing I did notice they didn’t offer was the dome thumbsticks as an option for replacement would have been nice as some Pro players prefer this over the standard 360 sticks.
None of the pain has worn off or chipped seems like the full job was done in detail and carefully. This would be great for any hardcore gamer and for those Pro Teams looking for something to have as a symbol of unity this is a great idea. One other thing is if your just an average gamer this is quite an expensive accessory with no real “feature” such as a Razer Onza but if this shop would consider even customizing those that might be something else to look into.
All in all its worth the unique look and worth your consideration as a purchase if your into gaming. This is something that anyone will notice and will want to know more about once they look at your customized controller. See this as a unique item and one of a kind that will be one the most memorable things you will have with gaming.
