Sony reveals radically different PS5 controller it is calling the 'DualSense'
Sony has launched its latest volley in the battle for next-generation game console supremacy with the official launch of its all-new PS5 controller. The new controller is a substantial redesign over the previous DualShock-branded controllers, and as such, also picks up a new name – ‘DualSense’. The new DualSense controller looks as though it sits somewhere between the Xbox Series X controller and the previous DualShock design approach – expect it to generate plenty of discussion, especially when it reaches the hands of users for the first time.
In addition to the new design and two-tone look, Sony has made a number of other changes, particularly in relation to touch and feedback response. For example, it incorporates new adaptive triggers into the L2 and R2 buttons to feel the tension of actions like when drawing a bow to shoot and arrow or feel the grittiness of driving through mud. The controller has also been reduced in weight while retaining a strong battery charge.
While Microsoft added the ‘Share’ button feature to its new controller, Sony has removed it but replaced it with a new ‘Create’ button -- it still involves the concept of sharing, but clearly targeted and the whole new genre of online content creation. The controller even incorporates a microphone to enable users to quickly jump into a chat if they choose while the lightbar now sits alongside the touchpad on either side rather than to the front where it was less noticeable.
DualSense marks a radical departure from our previous controller offerings and captures just how strongly we feel about making a generational leap with PS5. The new controller, along with the many innovative features in PS5, will be transformative for games – continuing our mission at PlayStation to push the boundaries of play, now and in the future. To the PlayStation community, I truly want to thank you for sharing this exciting journey with us as we head toward PS5’s launch in Holiday 2020. We look forward to sharing more information about PS5, including the console design, in the coming months.
– Jim Ryan, President & CEO, Sony Interactive Entertainment