By Chris Pereira on Aug 26, 2017 08:30 pm
Not for the first time in its history, there were those who believed Nintendo was doomed in light of the Wii U's struggles, and that its only option was to become a third-party developer, a la Sega. The Nintendo Switch has silenced many of those critiques: It has been routinely sold out since its launch back in March, surpassing sales projections and helping to boost Nintendo's market value to levels only exceeded during the heyday of the Wii. And all of that is not without reason: the Nintendo Switch is great! Provided you have some use for removing it from the dock--whether it be to take it to work, school, bed, or, let's be honest, the bathroom--it provides an experience unlike quite anything else. It's also quietly built up an excellent library of games in just six months, even setting aside big hitters like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Splatoon 2. But there's also room for improvement. Areas in which Nintendo has historically struggled are present and need to be addressed, and there are other spots that this already solid system could be made even better. Let's run through what we want to see.
More (And Better) Game Sales on the Eshop
As the Switch's library continues to grow, it would be nice if it were easier to dip back into older titles at a discount every now and then. To date, we've seen only a few games go on sale on the Eshop, and in those cases the price cuts were not as substantial as those on other platforms. Switch is an ideal system with which to go all digital--having every game downloaded and with you wherever you go is a delight. But it can be difficult to justify given the cost, with physical games going on sale more routinely (and with the added discount from things like Best Buy's Gamers Club Unlocked). This is not an issue that's exclusive to digital games on Switch by any means, and I know better than to expect Nintendo's first-party games to be discounted significantly. But in light of the system's nature, more aggressive Eshop pricing in general would be extremely welcome.
Folders and Game Management
Whether we get those cheaper prices or not, we're all inevitably going to continue buying more games. Those like myself who have already accumulated a large collection of digital games know Switch is not well-equipped to handle this. The system's main navigation bar doesn't scroll infinitely, and eventually you do hit the point where you get an "All Software" button that displays everything installed. But there's no level of control over how things are displayed--you can't sort the games in any specific way (everything is shown based on what was opened most recently). Worse, you can't pin specific games to the main navigation bar or create folders, which would help to alleviate all of this. Nintendo might have been able to argue folders weren't necessary at launch, but as the number of worthwhile games continues to grow, it's time for them to be introduced.
Customizable Wallpaper
Switch features two different color schemes for its main menu, and while I appreciate not having to suffer the eye-searing white while playing late at night, it's not enough. Vita has allowed you to use custom images as backgrounds since it launched more than five years ago, so why shouldn't I be able to Twin Peaks-ify my Switch in 2017? Pre-designed themes, like those available on 3DS, would also be a welcome addition to the system. Considering they would likely cost money, though, having both those and custom wallpapers would be best.
HD Rumble Settings
HD Rumble is great--when it's used right. There's nothing quite like 1-2-Switch's ball-rolling mini-game, and TumbleSeed makes good use of the advanced vibration technology. But we've also seen multiple games go overboard, pushing the rumble effect well beyond the point of comfort. Having a system-level setting that can override rumble strength would help to mitigate this unpleasantness.
Web Browser and Media Apps
At launch, Nintendo may have wanted to emphasize that the Switch was a game machine first and foremost, and thus left out non-game functionality to accomplish that. Fine. The point has been made, and I don't think that the ability to watch Netflix and YouTube videos or visit a website is going to chill demand for the console. It didn't hurt the Wii, and frankly, it's silly to consider that a console that had outdated hardware a decade ago could do anything that the Switch can't today. Adding these features would also give Nintendo a way to leverage the right Joy-Con's little-used IR pointer--which I suspect many people don't even know exists. Pointing a Joy-Con at your TV would be even better than navigating with a controller, as you do on Xbox One or PS4.
More Demos
Considering the number of games now available on the Eshop--there are more than 100, believe it or not--there are decidedly few with demos accompanying them. Permitting players the opportunity to try out a game, be it through a specially designed demo or a system that lets you play a fixed portion of the full game, is a wise move if you're confident in the quality of your game. We've highlighted many of the quality games on Switch that may not have caught your attention, but if the Eshop simply invited you to try more for yourself, it would be a real boon for sales of smaller games in particular.
Better Eshop
Of course, even if there were more demos, they wouldn't necessarily be easy to find. That's because the Eshop is a mess. The system itself struggles to house a fraction of the games available, but the Eshop has to hold them all, and it does so poorly. You can search manually, look at recent releases or best sellers, or check out a full list. That's it. There's no easy way to see what's on sale or which games have demos; the system seems to be leaning on its News channel to highlight these things, and that's just not a setup that works well. Building a store is no easy task--just see the more extreme, but similar problems Valve faces with Steam--but there is basic, core functionality that is missing here. Oh, and one more thing: BRING BACK THE WII ESHOP MUSIC. Scientific studies I have definitely conducted show a guaranteed 1,000% increase in sales if people are visiting the store just to listen to the music.
More Wii U Ports
Any system could use more games, and while I hope to see worthwhile original ones continue to roll out at a regular cadence, that doesn't mean the Wii U ports need to stop. Already we've seen Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and soon we'll have Pokken Tournament DX, but why stop there? There are plenty of quality games on Wii U that never got the attention they deserved due to low adoption of the system, so let's keep them coming. From Bayonetta 2 and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker to Super Smash Bros. and Super Mario Maker, there are a wide variety of genres that could be bolstered on Switch with improved versions of Wii U games. The hard work is already done, with these games already being great--now let's hope Nintendo makes good on what it's already teased by sprinkling in more deluxe ports over the next few years.
Let Me Preserve My Saves
Switch feels like a modern console in many ways; having one system that can play a game like Breath of the Wild on your giant TV or in the backseat of a car is positively magical. And yet numerous aspects of the system lack the type of functionality you'd expect from a system released even several years ago, let alone in 2017. The inability to back up save files has me perpetually in fear. For a system whose marquee game can consume hundreds of hours of your time and would cause tears to be shed if your save were lost, the absence of save backups is absurd. My hope is that Nintendo is developing a seamless cloud-based save backup system (unlikely, I know), but there's no good reason for the lack of a basic backup option in the meantime.
Better Online Support
Similarly, Switch's online support is poor. The fact that friend codes still exist is frankly staggering. There's no way to message friends or create a profile for yourself (or, in lieu of that, a nickname for people on your friends list to help keep track of who is who). And while it's easy enough to boot up a simple online match of Splatoon 2, the official voice chat solution is nothing short of laughable. Nintendo's premium online service has been delayed while it continues to ensure it's up to snuff, but there are numerous ways in which the overall experience--paid or not--needs to improve.
Video Recording
Switch makes it easy to snap screenshots, but the ability to capture video clips remains an unfulfilled promise. Once again, Breath of the Wild demonstrates why this is sorely missed: How many times have you described an ingenious, awe-inspiring, or otherwise amazing moment to a friend but been unable to actually show them? Without an easy way to record video, countless wonderful moments that we've become accustomed to being able to save on PS4, Xbox One, and PC have been rendered nothing more than fading memories.
Bring Back the Activity Log
I am admittedly a strange person, and one odd pleasure of mine (and others! There are dozens of us!) is taking a look at how much time I've spent playing games. Nintendo embraced this desire with the 3DS and Wii U's Activity Log, which broke down exactly when and how much specific games were played. Switch only presents a rudimentary version of this. You can see some information in the mobile parental controls app or view your online profile to get a fairly non-specific hour count (assuming you aren't in the dreaded "Played for a little while" range). If the system is bothering to count, just give us that cold, raw data.
HDMI Output in Handheld Mode
The only official way to play your Switch on a TV is to drop it into the dock, but what I'd love is the ability to cut out that middle man and output video to a TV from handheld mode. The most obvious benefit would be not needing to buy an additional, pricey dock for a second room you want to play in (which may be one reason Nintendo doesn't offer this option). But it would also make it significantly easier to take a Switch to someone else's house for some multiplayer action. I've brought my Switch to family gatherings, and we were forced to endure multiplayer on the Switch's screen, which is just not big enough for some games, like Fast RMX. Perhaps I should have had the foresight to pack my dock, but that runs contrary to the idea of being able to pick up the system and walk out the door.
Different Kinds of Joy-Cons
Image credit: ryansalamanda on Twitter It's a concept that fans immediately imagined after the Switch's design was revealed: alternative Joy-Cons. We've seen some different colors announced--and there are still a lot of possibilities there; I'd love a Super Famicom one--but functionally different Joy-Cons is where the real potential lies. Hardcore Super Smash Bros. fans would undoubtedly like to see a GameCube controller essentially cut in half and Joy-Con-ified, while others have proposed those that lend themselves to shooting games or even specific titles, like Yo-Kai Watch. Nintendo could run the risk of flooding stores and demanding too much shelf space, but it's exciting to think about what's possible.
Virtual Console (With Cross-Buy Support)
Here's the biggest one of all. Switch is already home to numerous Neo Geo games, but there is a vast library of classic games that I'm dying to be able to play on the system. The success of the NES Classic (and strong demand for the SNES Classic) may have incentivized Nintendo to wait or drop Virtual Console plans altogether, but I remain hopeful that it's on the way in full. More than just the ability to boot up classic games, I hope Nintendo doesn't ignore the money fans have invested in Virtual Console on its older platforms. Cross-Buy support that brings your existing collection of VC games to Switch would be a dream come true and make the Switch even more appealing than it already is. Let's just hope that, by the time Nintendo decides to dump these hundreds of games on the Eshop, it also overhauls the store's layout. And don't forget about that music.
By Michael Higham on Aug 26, 2017 05:39 am
Introduction
The mice we tested for this roundup
The right mouse can make the difference between winning and losing. Gamers serious about their peripherals look for top-notch performance, comfortable ergonomics, and features that optimize their gaming experience. Great mice come in all shapes, sizes, and weights; many of these factors will come down to personal preference. Some mice are specifically designed for FPS or MOBAs, whereas some try to strike a middle ground. To properly evaluate each mouse in this review roundup, we used each one in a competitive match of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), and Heroes of the Storm (HOTS) when necessary. We installed the appropriate software and tinkered with programmable buttons for the in-game tests. To keep things consistent, we also used a Steelseries QCK cloth mouse pad for all of our tests. We then critiqued each mouse in three aspects: ergonomics, performance, and value. We also intend to update this story as we get our hands on additional mice and new iterations of current models.
Different types of grips
Image credit: Razer Inc.
There are three main ways to grip a mouse: palm, claw, and fingertip. Bigger mice with a prominent arch on its body tend to work well for palm grips. Deep grooves for the thumb and pinky finger are a common feature to help move and lift the mouse. A claw grip puts more emphasis on your fingers and allows for more granular movements without having to move your whole hand; lighter mice with shorter chassis are recommended. The fingertip grip is only realistic with small, lightweight mice since all the weight and motion is, of course, at your fingertips. No one grip is objectively better than the other, it only matters that you go with whichever grip works best for you and the mouse you're using.
Steelseries Rival 310
Steelseries Rival 310
Design and Ergonomics: Steelseries' Rival 310 is one of the lightest mice in this roundup, weighing in at just 88 grams. Textured silicone grips on both sides of the mouse make it easy to hold and the semi-rough matte finish on the body ensures it never slips out of your hand. There's a prominent hunch at the center of the body that makes a palm grip more comfortable, but the Rival 310 works well for a claw grip, too. Take note that the right side juts out slightly as a sort of pinky rest and body is curved in a way that's specific for right-handed users. Performance: Both left and right clicks feel solid, and responsive enough for fast repeated clicking. The scroll wheel has distinct actuation and works well as a mouse button since you won't mistakenly scroll when you try to press down on it. The TrueMove3 optical sensor claims to provide 1:1 tracking up to a 3,500 DPI setting, but we simply found the mouse to be extremely precise during out time playing CS:GO and Playerunknown's Battlegrounds. The large side buttons are responsive as well; they're easy to press with your thumb and feel tactile. The Rival 310's lightweight also made whipping it around effortless, though you may not like its hollow feel if you prefer heavier, more substantial mice. Features and Value: The Rival 310 can be set in 100 DPI increments up to 12,000 DPI and a mouse button to cycle through DPI presets reside under the scroll wheel. The Steelseries Engine software allows you to customize the RGB backlighting profile on the logo and scroll wheel. Although it opts for a rubberized cord, it's flexible and doesn't drag down mouse movement. It doesn't try to do too much and focuses on being a simple, lightweight, and ergonomic mouse. The Rival 310 retails for $60, however, so we'd recommend it if all its design and features fit your preferences.
Steelseries Sensei 310
Steelseries Sensei 310
Design and Ergonomics: The Sensei 310 from Steelseries probably looks familiar to you. That's because it shares the same design philosophy as its relative, the Rival 310. There are a few differences here, though. The Sensei sports a symmetrical, ambidextrous body that'll fit well for both right- and left-handed users. Its hunch is noticeably lower compared to the Rival which also means that there's less surface area on the sides for the silicone grips. The side buttons are a bit smaller as well, but the Sensei packs two extra thumb buttons on the right side so lefties aren't short-handed. Since the body has a lower profile, a palm grip might be a little less comfortable, but a claw grip feels right. Performance: Again, many of the parts that make up the Rival 310 also make up the Sensei 310. You get the same responsive clicks and solid scroll wheel.The TrueMove3 sensor still offered accurate tracking, which is one factor we could rely on when we were playing both Playerunknown's Battlegrounds and CS:GO. The side buttons feel somewhat squishy and aren't the easiest to press since they're smaller, but it's not a deal-breaker. As previously mentioned, Sensei 310 has two extra programmable buttons over the Rival; it's really convenient to have, although pressing these buttons with your pinky isn't exactly convenient in a heated situation. Overall, this mouse feels great to game with; it's precise and lightweight. Features and Value: The sensor offers up to 12,000 DPI which can be customized to 100 DPI increments through the Steelseries Engine software. The two RGB backlit zones (logo and scroll wheel) can also be tinkered with in the software. Its flexible rubberized cable doesn't hinder mouse movement. The Sensei 310 is a great mouse regardless of your dominant hand. It's also slim pickings for left-handed PC gamers and at $60, Steelseries offers the best option we've seen thus far.
HyperX Pulsefire FPS
HyperX Pulsefire FPS
Design and Ergonomics: HyperX took notes from the competition for its first gaming mouse in the Pulsefire FPS, and that's a good thing. It may look similar to Razer's Deathadder, but the Pulsefire's slightly bulky body makes sense for those who use a palm grip. It's even suitable for a claw grip due to the rubberized texture that covers most of the sides; it make the mouse easy to pick up and swipe around. The Pulsefire is also lighter than it looks, weighing in at just 95 grams. Its two thumb buttons are relatively small but aren't too difficult to press. Performance: The Pixart 3310 optical sensor provides precise tracking on the Pulsefire, evident during our time with CS:GO. The Omron switches underneath the left and right clicks were tactile and good enough for repetitive clicking, but could have a little more spring on the way back up. As mentioned in the design, the two thumb buttons could've been bigger considering the overall size of the mouse. Regardless, the overall feel of the Pulsefire is nearly perfect for right-handed users. Features and Value: The Pulsefire's DPI can be set from 400 to 3,200, and the DPI button cycles through between four different presets. It only sports red backlighting and the DPI switch will change colors as you change the preset. HyperX is charging $50 for the Pulsefire, which is relatively cheap for a high-performance mouse.
Logitech G403 / G403 Wireless
Logitech G403 / G403 Wireless
Design and Ergonomics: The G403's design is similar to Razer's Deathadder with a few slight differences; the hunch at the apex of the body is a bit more prominent, the thumb groove isn't as deep, and it's a slightly smaller overall. Because of its size, the G403 can work comfortably with a claw grip and palm grip. A subtle rubber finish along the sides also adds extra grip. The two thumb buttons are large and easy to press. Performance: I'm willing to say that the G403 performs flawlessly as a wireless mouse. Even though the wireless variant is slightly heavier, none of the precision is lost in translation. Sniping in competitive CS:GO felt just right, and in some cases smoother since there is no cord to drag around as you swipe and lift the mouse. Tracking along the cloth mouse pad worked well. The side buttons push in without a problem. The middle mouse button can be difficult to click down, but the scroll wheel has a distinct tactile feel. Features and Value: RGB backlighting comes through on the Logitech logo and a slit on the scroll wheel, which you can control through Logitech's software. A lone DPI button can only cycle through settings, but up to five presets can be programmed. The sensor ranges from 100 to 12,000 DPI. The wireless version's battery can last around 15 to 18 hours on a full charge, and only takes about two hours to fully charge. It can also be used as a wired mouse while charging. The $100 price tag may be off-putting at first, but we would highly recommend the wireless version if you're looking to cut the cord and still play at a high level. The wired $70 variant is identical and is still a great choice for a gaming mouse.
Logitech G Pro
Logitech G Pro
Design and Ergonomics: The Logitech G Pro sports a minimalist and lightweight design, and it's a joy to use. The inward slant toward the bottom of the mouse makes it easy to pick up and swipe with a claw grip. However, its compact body makes a palm grip difficult. The all-plastic housing is a bit disappointing considering most higher-end mice have some sort of rubber texture that provides better grip. The left and right click buttons have subtle grooves and the scroll wheel sports textured rubber. The G Pro can be used ambidextrously, but you can only realistically use the two side buttons with your right hand. Performance: Clicking feels tactile, proven during the pistol rounds in CS:GO. Since these weapons are semi-automatic, the responsive clicking allowed me to fire as fast as possible. The rubber scroll wheel offers distinct actuation and a strong grip, but its heavy resistance as a middle mouse button could make it difficult to use in key situations. The two side buttons are also responsive, but the thin profile could be hit or miss; you aren't likely to accidentally press them, but the limited contact surface may not be ideal in frantic moments. Features and Value: Since there is only a single DPI button, you can only cycle through different settings, but it can be set anywhere between 200-12,000 DPI with up to five presets through Logitech's Gaming Software. Full RGB backlighting shines through the Logitech G logo and a trim around the palm area of the mouse. These lights are also programmable through the software. If you don't mind the smaller side buttons and heavy scroll wheel then the Logitech G Pro is worth the $70 asking price.
Razer Deathadder Elite
Razer Deathadder Elite
Design and Ergonomics: The tried and true core design of Razer's Deathadder--originally released in 2006--remains intact with the Elite model. It fits seamlessly into your right hand and sports textured rubber grip on both sides of the mouse. The Deathadder works best for those who prefer a palm grip due to its large size and length, but the mouse remains lightweight. The Elite's smooth scrolling tactility and bumps along the rubber coating are highlights of this mouse. Performance: This mouse performs extremely well with its slick tracking on a cloth mousepad, but sticks to the surface just enough and doesn't slide around unnecessarily. Responsive clicking is one aspect where the Deathadder Elite needs improvement. Both the left and right click tend to sink and not spring up as distinctly as other mice we tested. This made semi-auto weapons in CS:GO slightly harder to use. The two side buttons and the scroll wheel have a very solid click, however. Features and Value: The Deathadder Elite has Chroma RGB lighting on the Razer logo and along the scroll wheel, which are programmable through Razer's Synapse software. Its optical sensor can be set up to 16,000 DPI, which can be adjusted with up and down buttons on-the-fly. At $70, it's hard to beat the Deathadder Elite, especially if you prefer a palm-grip mouse.
G.Skill Ripjaws MX780
G.Skill Ripjaws MX780
Design and Ergonomics: G.Skill's Ripjaws MX780 sports an extravagant cyborg-like design with interchangeable side grips. Both sides snap into the mouse magnetically, and you have the option of grips with or without a thumb rest platform. You can adjust the height of the back-end of the mouse to make a comfortable palm grip possible. Its ambidextrous design is good news for left-handed folk, and a set of two thin thumb buttons reside on both sides of the mouse body. Performance: While the MX780 has a lot going for it, its side buttons have limited contact surface which makes them difficult to use. The best way to press them would be to get under with your thumb, but it's less than ideal. It's nice that there's extra set of buttons to use with your pinky or ring finger, but they proved cumbersome to click. The main left and right click have very distinct actuation, and felt just right in CS:GO. The smooth rubber scroll wheel has a tactile bump and works as a great responsive middle mouse button. Features and Value: The MX780 features RGB backlighting along the sides and atop the mouse body. The DPI switch allows you to cycle through up to five settings (8,200 DPI max), which are programmable through G.Skill's software. We wouldn't recommend the MX780 at its original price of $75, but it's frequently found between $40 and $50 from popular retailers. At discounted prices, this mouse could be worth it.
Fnatic Gear Clutch G1
Fnatic Gear Clutch G1
Design and Ergonomics: While the Fnatic Gear Clutch G1 has a bulky chassis, it's surprisingly lightweight. It's slightly larger than the Razer Deathadder and similarly intended for palm grips. The entire surface has a rubber-like texture, and combined with subtle grooves, it's incredibly easy to grip. Two prominent thumb buttons reside on the left side, through they're more responsive when pressing towards their center. The scroll wheel has noticeable resistance and clicks down nicely. Performance: The first thing about the Clutch G1 that stands out is the amount of friction it generates on a cloth mouse pad. Swiping around felt tiresome over time since there was substantial resistance under the mouse. It still performed accurately as the tracking did not disappoint when sniping in CS:GO, though it did take time to adjust. The left and right clicks have a slight sinking feeling, making rapid clicks a little challenging, but not prohibitive. We switched to a hard surface mouse pad for a moment, which made movements smoother, but it didn't glide as you would expect on a hard surface. Features and Value: The Clutch G1 has RGB lighting on the scroll wheel and three LED lights to indicate its current DPI mode. Its round buttons atop the mouse switch DPI up and down and the Fnatic Gear software allows you to set it up to 5,000 DPI. While it's not a bad mouse overall, you should take note of its quirks before dropping $60 on the Fnatic Gear Clutch.
Steelseries Rival 700
Steelseries Rival 700
Design and Ergonomics: Steelseries made some neat design decisions for the Rival 700. It has textured side grips, three thumb buttons, a perfect shape for right-handed palm grip users, and a customizable LED display to shows in-game stats or logos. At 135 grams, the Rival 700 can be a bit heavy for claw and fingertip grip users. All the clicks, including the side buttons, have a satisfying tactile feel when they're pressed. However, the flawed design of the detachable cord is a deal-breaker. Performance: The detachable cord ruins the glide across any surface. The rubber casing around the end that plugs into the mouse itself makes contact with the mouse pad, creating a lot of friction. We tried to bend the rubber casing upward as much as possible and it helped alleviate the problem, but only temporarily. As far as we can tell, the Rival 700 could be one of the smoothest mice on the market, but it's held back by this issue. So, despite the solid clicking of all its buttons and accurate tracking of the Pixart PWM3360 optical sensor, it doesn't make up for its major flaw. Features and Value: As mentioned earlier, the small LED screen on the side of the mouse can display a bunch of neat things, like your in-game currency, kill-to-death ration, a team logo, or your active DPI setting. The detachable cord makes the Rival 700 easy to store and take on the go, but again its design holds back the mouse from performing well. You can set the DPI through the Steelseries Engine software up to 16,000 and cycle through three settings with the on-mouse DPI switch. The sensor itself is detachable if you wish to swap it out with a Pixart 9800 laser sensor (sold separately).
Steelseries Rival 500
Steelseries Rival 500
Design and Ergonomics: The Steelseries Rival 500 is specifically designed with MOBAs and MMOs in mind. There are six asymmetrical side buttons for your thumb, two buttons along the perimeter of the left click, and one along the edge of the right click. The large body feels best for palm grips and the pinky/ring finger rest provides comfort, through this makes the mouse harder to lift up. The rubberized cord is an odd choice as most gaming mice use braided cords. Rubber cords get snagged easily and aren't flexible, which is important for a peripheral that is constantly moving. Performance: As this mouse is intended for MOBAs and MMOs, it performs very poorly in FPS games. The textured rubber along the side did not provide enough grip to pick up and swipe across the mouse pad with any comfort. It's also heavier than the other mice tested, compounding this issue. The unique button layout takes time to get used to, but each buttons distinct placement helps you remember what action is mapped to it. Left and right clicks feel very responsive and the scroll wheel had an easy, light tactility. The bottom two side buttons also act as a small platform to rest your thumb. This can be an issue if you want to use those buttons in-game as they can be clicked on accident fairly easy. There is a switch below the mouse to keep the buttons from moving, but it defeats the purpose of having these buttons. Features and Value: You'll need to use the Steelseries Engine software to map and take advantage of all the extra buttons. You can also set the mouse between 100 and 16,000 DPI, though you can only swap between two settings on-the-fly. RGB backlighting is featured on the brand logo. With all the curious design choices and my experience using the Rival 500, it's hard to recommend this mouse at any price point, let alone the $80 MSRP. It's disappointing too, considering a few of its upsides.
Razer Naga Hex V2
Razer Naga Hex V2
Design and Ergonomics: This new iteration of the Razer Naga opts for a wheel-like layout for its seven side buttons. The rubber pad at the center of these buttons helps grip the mouse, but this also limits you to using a claw grip; your thumb will come in contact with the buttons otherwise. A matte finish and slightly coarse feel of the chassis provides a surprising and comfortable grip. Like other MOBA-designed mice, the right side juts out and allows you to rest your pinky and/or ring finger. Performance: The Naga Hex V2 tracked across the cloth mouse pad well. Its distinct left and right clicks were precise and the extra buttons were easy to press down. The only issue--which could be alleviated over time--is that the side buttons are almost indistinguishable from each other. It was a bit tough to tell "1" from "2" and "3" from "7", or any adjacent button for that matter. And in the heat of a HOTS match, it could be a matter of winning or losing if you activate the wrong spell on accident. Though this mouse could be used for non-competitive FPSs, we would not recommend the V2 for shooters. Features and Value: Chroma RGB backlighting is featured on the mouse and shines through the logo, side buttons, and scroll wheel. DPI can be changed with the up and down buttons, with a max DPI of 16,000. If you play MOBAs almost exclusively, the Naga Hex V2 is a decent choice at $80 retail.
Corsair Scimitar Pro
Corsair Scimitar Pro
Design and Ergonomics: The 12 buttons along the left side of the Scimitar Pro are the first things that jump out at you. These buttons are laid out on a four-by-three grid with two of the columns sporting a grated texture to help distinguish the buttons. By loosening a screw below the mouse, the 12-button grid can be slid around and adjusted for your most preferred placement. These side buttons are also concave to help thumb placement and overall grip. Excluding the grooves along the sides, this is a very round mouse. Performance: We figured the 12-button layout would confuse me while in a match of HOTS, but with just seven abilities, it was easy to tell one button from another, especially with the grated texture. The side buttons are also fairly resistant and very rarely get pressed on accident. Some may find it slightly difficult to press one of the many buttons, but this can be a positive for gripping the mouse. A rubber pad along the ring finger rest provides just enough to help grip, lift, and swipe the mouse comfortably. Features and Value: The Scimitar Pro sports RGB backlighting along the side and on its logo. Corsair Utility Engine software is required to tinker with this, as well as the button mappings. Unfortunately, CUE isn't very user-friendly, so don't be surprised if it frustrates you. DPI settings can also go up to 16,000 and can be swapped on the fly with the up and down DPI buttons. With $80 as the going rate, we would recommend the Scimitar Pro to those who sink most of their time into MOBAs and MMOs.
Mad Catz RAT 6 / RAT 8
Mad Catz RAT 6 / RAT 8
Note: The Mad Catz RAT 6 and RAT 8 are nearly identical mice that perform similarly. Design and Ergonomics: The Mad Catz RAT 6 and RAT 8 standout with their flashy robotic-like design, but they do warrant the look in a way. Both mice fit my hand well, but we had to spread my fingers noticeably more than other mice. The palm area of the mice can be adjusted and slid outward a few extra centimeters by using a lever just under the back. It's a nice addition for those wanting a bit more ergonomic customization. With the back extended to its outward most point, the RATs were comfortable palm grip mice. However, a steep downward slope towards the left and right click made this configuration feel awkward. we prefer lightweight mice, so we removed all the weights tucked under the mouse. But if you desire the extra weight, it is an option, though it will alter the balance of the mouse. Exclusive to the RAT 8, the thumb and pinky rest can be adjusted for a different outward angle. This helps spread your hand more when gripping the mouse for a more natural feel. Performance: Both the RAT 6 and RAT 8 felt slick across a cloth mouse pad. Tracking was precise in CS:GO, which was evident when we sniped under clutch situations. The left and right clicks have a springy tactile response, good for rapid clicking. Low-profile side buttons along the thumb were more resistant than the other side buttons of other mice we tested. Though these buttons felt solid, they were too far back to use comfortably with a claw grip. Features and Value: The RAT 6 sports a laser sensor that goes up to 8,200 DPI and the RAT 8 has an optical sensor capable of 12,000 DPI. RGB backlighting is also featured in both mice, though the red accents of the mouse body would make any other backlight color look strange. If customization is important to you then the Mad Catz RAT 6 and RAT 8 will spark your interest. At $80 and $100, these are expensive mice that should be reserved for those who prefer customization and futuristic aesthetics above all else.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Many of the mice in this review roundup have features that'll attract users with all sorts of preferences. The mice that we personally like the most, may not be the best fit for someone else. But understanding the different aspects of the product can help contextualize what it would be like to use it. If you're starting from scratch, you should ask yourself a few questions to figure out what mouse is best for you. Do you prefer a light or heavy mouse? How do you grip your mouse? What kind of features are you looking for? Based on my experiences, we would recommend the following: Claw grip: Logitech G Pro Palm grip: Razer Deathadder Elite MOBA/MMO-specific mouse: Corsair Scimitar Pro Wireless: Logitech G403 wireless What mouse do you prefer for gaming? Tell us in the comments! Check back with us for updates on our review roundup as we get our hands on additional mice. For our other gaming peripheral review roundups, check out our work on headsets and keyboards, and make sure you're equipped with the right gear that fits your style.
By Matt Espineli on Aug 26, 2017 03:09 am
Let The BattleZ Begin
After much anticipation following its initial announcement, the Arc System Works-developed Dragon Ball fighting game was revealed at Microsoft's E3 press conference. Titled Dragon Ball FighterZ, the game sports dynamic, fast-paced action with visuals that looks to capture the over-the-top aesthetic of the iconic anime series. But the bigger question now is: "Who's going to be in it?" We've compiled all the characters that have been confirmed so far. Dragon Ball FighterZ is developed by Arc System Works (Guilty Gear, Blazblue). The game played on a 2D plane, but its characters are rendered in full-3D. It follows a 3v3 format similar to later entries of the Marvel vs. Capcom series. The game is currently in development for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC and is slated for an early 2018 release. For more about the game, check out our footage of the game in action, as well as our montage of every character intro and win quote so far.
Android 16
Android 16 is the sixteenth iteration of Dr. Gero's powerful series of advanced artificial humans. Unlike his more hostile siblings, he demonstrates deep compassion towards all living things. Despite his gentle demeanor, Android 16 is willing to do whatever it takes to protect his siblings from danger.
Android 18
Android 18 is the eighteenth iteration of Dr. Gero's powerful series of advanced artificial humans. When she's first introduced, she follows Gero's orders to kill Goku. However, her rebellious attitude causes her to deviate from this plan, inevitably leading to her and her brother, Android 17, murdering Gero in cold blood. Regardless, Android 18 eventually joins the Z Fighters due to the kindness and compassion they exhibit towards her at the end of the Cell saga.
Cell
Cell is one of the primary antagonists of the Androids arc, the third major saga in Dragon Ball Z. A mad scientist named Dr. Gero designed him to be the ultimate fighter by giving him numerous advantageous genetic traits and abilities.
Future Trunks
Future Trunks is Vegeta's and Bulma's son from an alternate timeline. While the couple eventually gave birth to him in the main timeline, this version of the character comes from an alternate era where the world was devastated by the Androids. Future Trunks first appeared in the aftermath of the Frieza Saga, having travelled back in time to warn the Z Fighters about the oncoming threat of the Androids, as well as to deliver medicine to Goku that would cure him of the heart disease he died from in the alternate timeline.
Frieza (Final Form)
Frieza is the emperor of the universe who's responsible for obliterating nearly the entire Saiyan race, which in turn caused the myriad conflicts present in Dragon Ball's earlier arcs. Frieza has a massive ego, believing that he is the most powerful life form in the universe.
Gohan
Gohan is the elder son of series protagonist Goku and his wife Chichi. While he shares his father's strength and courageous spirit, he tends to pull away from fighting and only resorts to it as a means of defending his family and friends.
Goku
Goku is the main protagonist of the entire Dragon Ball series. He's a Saiyan that was originally sent to Earth as an infant with a mission to destroy it. However, he ended up losing his memory not long after landing, which caused him to grow pure-hearted. Goku constantly trains hard to become a powerful fighter, which often results in him saving the universe in the process.
Innocent Buu
Innocent Buu is the first and the least evil of Majin Buu's forms. He's the result of Kid Buu (the original and pure form of Majin Buu) absorbing the Grand Supreme Kai.
Krillin
Krillin is the best friend and ally of Goku. He is known as one of the most talented human martial artists on Earth. While he is often overpowered by many of the series' antagonists, he remains a courageous and loyal fighter that rarely backs down from a fierce battle.
Piccolo
Piccolo, otherwise known as Piccolo Jr., is a Namekian and also the final child and reincarnation of the Demon King Piccolo. He was once an enemy of Goku, but after forming a close bond with Gohan in Goku's absence during the Saiyan Saga, he changes his ways and becomes a permanent member of the Z-fighters.
Vegeta
Vegeta is the crown prince of the fallen Saiyan race. He first appeared as a villain, who worked alongside Frieza and his minions. However, he turned against the villainous emperor in favor of fighting alongside the Z fighters, all while striving to become the most powerful fighter in the universe.
Super Saiyan Blue Goku
Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan (SSGSS) form, also known as Super Saiyan Blue, is an incredibly powerful form introduced in Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F. Goku describes it as occurring when a "Saiyan with the power of a Super Saiyan God further transforms himself into a Super Saiyan."
Super Saiyan Blue Vegeta
Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan (SSGSS) form, also known as Super Saiyan Blue, is an incredibly powerful form introduced in Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F. Vegeta achieves Super Saiyan Blue form through ki control in Dragon Ball Super.
By Kallie Plagge on Aug 26, 2017 02:07 am
Only For The Best
The 2017 Pokemon World Championships were held in Anaheim, CA from August 18 to 20. At the event, top-tier players in Pokemon Sun and Moon, the trading card game, and even Pokken Tournament competed for the title of World Champion. Every year, competitors get a special backpack filled with exclusive goodies, from a Worlds-themed Pikachu plush to unique cards. To go with the Anaheim setting, this year's merch features summery imagery and colors. Click forward to see what the best Pokemon players got this year. For more on Pokemon, be sure to check out our beginner's guide to competitive Sun and Moon and our recap of this year's Worlds.
Competitor backpack.
Backpack detail.
Backpack detail featuring Worlds key art.
Just a peek!
Worlds 2017 Pikachu plush. Pikachu is holding a fruit.
Worlds 2017 Pikachu plush.
Playmat.
Card box.
Card box.
Card box detail.
Card sleeves.
Card sleeve detail.
Commemorative cards.
The 2017 commemorative cards come in a variety of languages, including English, Japanese, Spanish, and Korean.
The Champions Festival card allows you to heal 10 damage from each of your Pokemon in play.
Screen cleaner.
One side of the screen-cleaning cloth features a type chart for reference!
Baseball cap.
Scarf.
Scarf.
Luggage tag (modeled by Pikachu).
Luggage tag.
Luggage tag.
Pouch.
Pouch.
Pin (modeled by Pikachu).
Pin.
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