Backbone Pro Controller: A Premium Mobile Gaming Experience
Backbone has launched the Backbone Pro, a new mobile gaming controller designed to enhance iOS and Android gameplay. This successor to the Backbone One boasts full-size joysticks, re-mappable buttons, and Bluetooth connectivity for a premium gaming setup.
Wireless Freedom and Cross-Device Play
Unlike the Backbone One, the Backbone Pro functions wirelessly, allowing use with cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass. Transition seamlessly between playing on your TV and picking up where you left off on your mobile device.
“Gaming should be more straightforward,” says Backbone founder Maneet Khaira. “It needs to be simple and work like AirPods connecting to screens.”
Backbone is capitalizing on the growth of mobile and cloud gaming, solidifying its position as a leading mobile gaming hardware provider. The company has attracted celebrity investors like Ashton Kutcher, The Weeknd, and gaming insiders like Discord founder Jason Citron.
A True Test: From Switch to Backbone Pro
To put the Backbone Pro to the test, we compared it to a Nintendo Switch. Playing games like Stardew Valley on the Backbone Pro proved surprisingly comfortable. While mobile gaming interruptions can be annoying, the Backbone Pro's ergonomics offer a more relaxed experience than the Switch.
Intuitive Design and Extensive Prototyping
The Backbone Pro's intuitive design stands out. Its ergonomics feel natural and comfortable from the start. The controller connects to your phone via USB-C, allowing for seamless gameplay even in button-mashing intensive games like Hades.
Khaira drew inspiration from Meta's rapid prototyping process for the Quest headset. Backbone 3D-printed over 9,000 parts, meticulously refining the controller's design to achieve optimal comfort and performance.
Price and Value
The Backbone Pro retails for $169.99. While this is comparable to a refurbished Nintendo Switch Lite, the cross-device functionality may justify the cost for serious mobile gamers. For those primarily playing on mobile, the Backbone One at $99.99 remains a viable option.
