FINALLY, a SUPERB Phone Controller (GameSir G8)

[@RetroGameCorps]

Okay I just got it with the whole Galileo + “telescopic” controller thing…I’m an idiot 😂 A couple notes: - Slim phone cases will work with this controller for the most part - It works great with my iPhone 15 Pro, in fact I can use it with their fake leather official case. Many games require you to be in PS Mode to recognize the controller (which has no connection issue on iOS) - If you have a bigger case, you can just remove the rubber padding on the USB-C side and it will likely fit. It removes some protection but hey, you have a case on your phone already :) Here is a demo: www.reddit.com/r/EmulationOnAndroid/comments/rsflrc/simple_gamesir_x2_usbc_mod_to_greatly_improve/

[@TierNoneOperator]

Why did you not like the x2 pro?

[@joeh5315]

Odin2 guide still going ahead?

[@margaretcattertv]

Lol I paused not even 30 seconds into the video to come comment this. I'm glad you realized

[@margaretcattertv]

Lol I paused not even 30 seconds into the video to come comment this. I'm glad you realized

[@n_tas]

That's got to be the most tenuous allusion a product has ever made

[@charlesbronson2926]

It's awesome they were seemingly confident you would change your mind after seeing how good it is

[@varunaX]

they gave him a free controller. its the least he could do.

[@suntorytimes1]

@@varunaX It doesn't work that way.

[@subzero-ku2wx]

Not really, the left stick started to feel gritty only after a few hours of use.

[@UnAssimilated1]

@@subzero-ku2wxThere are "rings" you can buy/swap They are dirt cheap. You shouldnt have to, it's brand new product, Im just saying you can if controller gives you problems

[@subzero-ku2wx]

@@UnAssimilated1 Yeah, I was thinking about getting some replacement anti-friction rings but I worry that the problem might be with the stick rather than the rings. Upgrading both would be ideal but I might just go for a kishi ultra so I can get rumble.

[@Kosecant]

The weird sticks you didn’t like (the circular one and the smaller one) are actually game cube sticks interestingly enough. They’d feel right at home in you were playing dolphin!

[@Treyshellz]

I plan on getting this and when I do, I'm using the circular one because I'm huge fan of the GameCube

[@RetroGameCorps]

Whoa I never thought of it this way, great point!

[@VanBurenPhilips]

Riiight, the small one is the C-stick? I'd forgotten about that.

[@GustavoFil350]

@@RetroGameCorps The really small stick is also for people with big thumbs, so you can put it on the right and it does not get in the way of pressing the face buttons (mainly A button)

[@fafski1199]

@@RetroGameCorps It also uses standard analogue rocker sticks. So you could always swap them out for any third-party ones, if you wish.

[@jackal3770]

Picked one of these up. Thank you for the video. This is a new landscape for me, and you were very helpful.

[@exxmodel]

An underrated aspect of phone controllers is how lightweight the setup is; this helps a ton with ergonomics. I got the deck OLED recently and it feels like gravity is trying to snatch the steam deck from below, I had to get a grip for it. My razer kishi and phone isn't the most ergonomic in the hand, but the fact that it weighs the same as an xbox controller makes it very comfortable to use. This pad looks great.

[@RustySeatbelt]

I was impressed with the lightness of the oled deck, considering the bigger battery inside.

[@bigrob029]

this is right on time! i've been holding out for one of these (in the mean time ive been following your guides to turn an old android phone into a retro console emulator) and it looks like this takes all the good of the last few models and is the best iteration of all of them. very well done.

[@MDunne1]

MG-X Pro is a better design, but I like that this is plug n play instead of bluetooth

[@bipbop3121]

​​@@MDunne1 I've seen it used a too big comparison. BT = lag I guess we're entering subjective territory. Reviews contain Some features TBD and quality issues, dead ones, failed buttons, Nacon customer support issues, etc. I don't personally know. I've got a V1 Kishi, which my issues are damaging to USB C port, headphone jack blocked with having one, slow charge only usb c pass through, can't use phone in case, probably more. This game sir seems to address everything (I need to double check that the triggers are analog, this was part of why I got a discount Kishi) but phone in case, better usb c pass thru and being smaller (but it seems good ergo is why it's larger, so less of a complaint).

[@Adam-mo2qw]

They are £67 on amazon at the moment. I got a used one for £53 though. Hopefully it's mint when it arrives.

[@billanotown]

I almost bought this yesterday. Thankfully i waited and got the coupon! thanks for the review i value your opinion

[@ItsDempseyTime]

I'm starting to love the "Which Steam Deck skin will Russ have today?" moment in your videos, it's a nice showcase of how customizable the Deck actually is

[@NoxiousNinja]

It's a little weird that they have customizable faceplates and sticks but not buttons - would be nice to be able to swap in Switch or PS-style buttons for a better emulation experience. The faceplates offer some interesting possibilites. It would be cool to have an option with octagonal gates. I would also like to see an option with a built in thermoelectric cooler like the X3. All that said, this looks nice and I'll probably pick one up. Great review!

[@crihsagnlel]

I was expecting buttons that could be swapped too.

[@ivoip8117]

@@crihsagnlel The buttons are also removable, but just like the faceplates there aren't extra's included or sold separately. But that let you make it the same layout as a switch joycon.

[@TakisEnjoyer]

Had a lot of bad experience with gamesir controllers back in the day, it's nice to see how much they progressed over the years

[@FromUsToAshes]

I've just received mine and the right trigger isn't working. I've mentioned it on Reddit and a half dozen people have responded stating either one, or both of their triggers aren't working either. There's no information online or anything that can help resolve this and I've been troubleshooting for hours now. If you click support on their app, and find this product, it just takes you to a picture of a sad face - it's ridiculous.

[@itchyjhin7349]

True. I had T4 and G4. Initially, the T4 worked wonders. But after a few months, it failed on me. It was disconnecting bluetooth mode, and it constantly resets. However, when I went with G4 pro, it honestly felt better than T4. What I didn t like about it is the chrome plating on the shoulder buttons. It chipped after a month of use

[@gumbyx84]

The more reviews I see of this controller, the more I want one. I have all models of the X2 and a Kishi v2 Pro so I really don't need it but it looks so good and checks so many boxes

[@PercussionImprovisations]

I haven't seen many talk about the Gamevice Flex, I appreciate that you did, it's an awesome controller that I've enjoyed for over a year now. There is something to be said about being able to keep your case on your phone and then just connecting up the controller and start playing. I find it to be comfortable, hadoken-able, shoryuken-able and it's nice to be able to fold it up and throw it in my backpack (I keep it in a little drawstring bag). You would never see me use my very expensive Galaxy S23 Ultra without a case, and the Gamevice Flex allows me to game at a moments notice! UNFORTUNETLY, at some point they stopped selling it!

[@biggie01taws6]

Been eyeing this one since it was announced and was waiting on a solid review. You, good sir, have just sold me on it lol. I can always count on your reviews...precise, straight forward, and honest!👍

[@gtno22]

Are you still happy with your purchase and does it still work well?

[@biggie01taws6]

@@gtno22 yeah it still works great for me, although I should let you know that I probably don't use it as much as the average person. I just play games more on my PC and PS5 than my phone, so I may not be the best person to ask lol.

[@subzero-ku2wx]

​@@gtno22Don't get it. The left stick started to feel gritty after only a few hours of use.

[@godminnette2]

I would think it's called Galileo because he made great improvements to the telescope, and they've made great improvements to the telescopic controller. Are the face buttons easily swappable? When using it in "Nintendo mode," I'd love to be able to swap the physical buttons around to that layout as well.

[@RetroGameCorps]

Great point, unfortunately the face buttons aren't swappable, they are shaped specifically for their location on the controller. So you'd have to wait for GameSir to offer replacements (which I have passed on to them as a suggestion).

[@IceBlueLugia]

Weird that they chose SNES colors when they’re obviously gonna go with the Xbox button layout, since many will use this for Game Pass and Steam Link. I’d have liked to see an Xbox layout version with the red, blue, green, and yellow buttons, and a Nintendo layout version with the SNES or SFC colors

[@rasantefalso]

Ironically they put the physical magnetic swappable face buttons in the X2 pro, the Xbox licensed version. Don't know why they didn't kept it in this improved model. Guess we can't have it all in one.

[@noot1375]

I always love it when Russ is given the option to enable something, usually emulation, and says: "Yeah, man, I wanna do it."

[@mahendrayulia2704]

Yeah Mam, I wanna do it

[@kurtgentry6257]

I don't know if you read comments but I'm glad your keeping with video creation on KZbin. I generally enjoy your videos and it's refreshing that you're not trying to sell me something every video. Keep up the good work 👏

[@ordinaryalan]

thanks for the video, I'd LOVE for you to cover the microsoft surface duo phone as a clamshell emulator device now that they've gone waayy down in price. Gamsir also has a controller I've seen people use with it that makes it a wonderful 2DS/3DS emulator machine. You rock!

[@tuskybarn]

Love how comprehensive your reviews are, great stuff! Looks like I'll be keeping an eye on this going on sale.

[@brownranger1797]

Imagine using it with a foldable phone. The aspect ratio of the screen would really compliment the width!

[@ovrxpsd]

there's another KZbinr (Shane Craig) with a video and the thumbnail shows it with a foldable. haven't watched it yet though

[@Stockarts]

This is what I talk about all this time. With a folding phone you have the perfect aspect ratio when unfolded. Russ should try this out.

[@Brooknium]

Unfortunately it has its USB on the right so the phone would fold down which is less ergonomically desirable. I have an older gamesir with the USB on the left and it is quite a great experience!

[@KentHambrock]

I have the X2 and I kinda love it, this looks much more comfortable and much nicer. I might pick this up, thanks for the review

[@Khanhj]

25:20 PS mode still work with latest firmware, switching to PS mode (white led) the android phone will pop up ask to connect gamesir, just tap cancel to dismiss (instead of tap OK) then it will work fine with PS remote app. I think the reason is tap OK it will force the controller go back to android mode.

[@GaetanoCrisci]

you definitely deserve 500k follower and more! great review

[@marknealeigh4975]

Galileo didn't invent the telescope, but he made significant improvements to the use and quality.

[@srobeck77]

kinda like iphones

[@nobody_vi3312]

This is a great controller! I have had mine for 2 weeks now it's a bit bulky, but the ergonomics are leagues ahead of the backbone, which caused my hands to cramp after 30 minutes, the texture on the grips is great and it actually is case compatible thanks to the spring on the usb c connector. I am finally using my phone as my emulation device thanks to this.

[@cali9004]

Re case compatibility which phone are you using it with?

[@nobody_vi3312]

​@@cali9004 a samsung s22 plus with a standard plastic case. Kevin Kenson highlights this on his review and some other small things Russ missed.

[@cali9004]

@@nobody_vi3312 awesome! Just checked it out seems like case support might be a non issue after all. Also I noticed there is a fix for the PS remote play, ps remote app needs to be started without the controller plugged in, then ps mode needs to be cycled by pressing the share and options button. Just ordered!

[@FromUsToAshes]

Have you had issues with any of the L2/R2 triggers not working?

[@rin_blank5830]

Does this work on a pixel 7 pro phone? And third party games like apk mod games downloaded from google chrome?

[@JoBroNoHole]

Me who uses an android phone, Gamesir G7 Xbox controller, and has massive hands: "THIS IS A MOMENT IN HISTORY!"

[@namitjain2890]

Was waiting for your review on this before pulling the trigger!

[@RedNocturne]

I wish they sold a lightning version! Also, you answered your own question about why they named it after an astronomer. It's a TELESCOPING controller... Get it?

[@charlesbronson2926]

With the newest iphone finally being usb c, im sure it just wasnt economical to create 2 versions.

[@nine_moons3073]

​@@charlesbronson2926ikr lightning is almost dead (it will be dead in 4 to 5 years when they wont sell the iphone 14 anymore)

[@alechemy]

Gamesir has made other telescoping controllers before, so by that logic shouldn’t they all be named “Galileo”? :P

[@Boogie_the_cat]

​@@alechemythere exist many other astronomers. How about "Edwin Hubble"? Kids would love that name 😂

[@RedNocturne]

@@alechemy it would be cool if it was a series of models all named after different astronomers!

[@rail7646]

holy crap this review actually covers the whole world of smartphone controllers I have never seen before, pretty great crash course into this world lol

[@javierdelgado3915]

I love watching these reviews, i have a bunch of these mobile controllers, i got retroarch and gamestreaming apps all setup 😅and i dont even play anything, like i test stuff out for a few minutes and im like cool, and then dont play

[@Fleur_de_lis2k]

I just received mine and feels very similar to a good old xbox360 controller. I'm an adult male with maybe a tad smaller hand size, I have no issues with the d-pad placement but it isn't exactly the same as xbox360. Overall a very high quality product, I haven't hooked it yet to my phone. I felt that with these products ergonomics is very important, looking at videos people fiddling with their Backbone Ones with a awkward gripping techniques, the GameSir G8 Galileo is highly recommendable in this regard. Have a nice weekend!

[@TheExtremeElementz]

I am glad I didn’t buy the Backbone recently on Black Friday for $70, because how you describe it is this thing blows it out of the water. 😅 Seriously thank you for making this review, I’m sold!

[@Zanpaa]

I did buy it on BF, used it a little and was disappointed. Now I'm looking at their return policy...

[@ovrxpsd]

​@@Zanpaasame here. i think I might still be within the return policy.

[@badassgenevideos]

Been using this for months now with lenovo y700 8inch tablet. The ergonomics of this controller and the screen of y700 is perfect for retro emulation.

[@KrazyShark]

Wow that is a huge step up from Gamesir. They've been doing amazing products lately it's great to see. The 8BitDo Ultimate C Bluetooth controller is out as well, might go for that one for my Galaxy Tab S9+ since these telescopic controllers don't go big enough for tablets I guess :

[@InnerFire6213]

i use my ipad mini for remote play so yeah same problem. i have a gamesir t4 pro and i don't really like it much compared to my 8bitdo. i don't know if i wanna get the g8 for my phone as the t4 pro ruined their brand for me

[@decay93]

Look out for BSP D8. Telescoping, hall trigger, hall analog. It fits phone and tablets!

[@varunaX]

thanks for testing the ps remote play. not a single other review i watched did so

[@stfc4619]

It is incredible... So much better than my x2 pro and SOOO much better than que Backbone. Changing Xbox layout to Nintendo with a shortcut is amazing and I got my Odin 2 pro today (But my case wasn't with!?) Life is amazing sometimes ;-)

[@CJMZ31]

I know Im too late here, but I'll just say that you're life is actually great for having all those things,if I get one of those controller's I would probably be screaming all day and night of happiness when I had one of those 😢. You should be thankful sometimes! 🙏

[@boom5732]

​@@CJMZ31well when you work, you can buy things like this sometimes

[@MUCKLEECH]

This is the best telescopic controller so far. As mentioned, the dead zones are out of wack from the factory. I set triggers and analogs to 0-100, and they feel good. Also as mentioned, it will fit with cases if you remove the rubber grips from the port side of the controller. I just used a super sharp carpet cutting blade and it made quick work of it. All in all a great controller

[@rsorry]

The USB connector broke for me in just a couple months. I reached out to their support and they told me to buy another one 👎

[@joeykeilholz925]

Welp, good to know...

[@jesusmeraz108]

Super glue it works right after backbone is the same doesn't move should have made it that way

[@srobeck77]

did you fall asleep on top of it? but honestly, very few manufacturers will cover physical breakage ever. or you could try the GS8+ which has no usb-c, and instead uses bluetooth

[@nonyabusiness-f9e]

i wanted to get this but it wasn't on amazon (like literally last week, now it is...) so i went with the backbone. kind of wish i waited but im happy with the backbone.

[@elliotclarke5685]

The Gamesir X2 Pro had one major improvement over the X2, which was analogue stick precision. You can see a visualisation of this improvement shown in a video from VK's Channel entitled "from trash to treasure! / the Gamesir X2 Pro is amazing!" at 4:52. I would be interested in seeing a similar visualisation of the analogue stick precision for this Gamesir G8 controller.

[@JgHaverty]

Being hall effect, it should be superior and more tuneable to deadzones you specify. Just nature of the controls.

[@elliotclarke5685]

@@JgHaverty hopefully that's the case, as the controller looks great and I've been looking for one to use with my s23 ultra.

[@JgHaverty]

@elliotclarke5685 if you dont the goofy aesthetics of this one, its gonna be the best you can get. The only other ones that are even worth entertaining are the x2 pro and the turtle beach bluetooth one [its just super portable and compatible, its not a great controller in a vacuum].

[@matts1978]

The x2 pro is a good controller. I also LOVE the way it looks with my phone in it. However, this one is so much more comfortable for longer gaming sessions. You can not beat the joysticks. They both easily crush the backbone. I didn't like the backbone from day one. The backbone is flimsy and the buttons you would normally use for start and select are not in the correct position. GAMESIR FOR THE WIN! Could you imagin with 8bitdo could do if they made a controller like this??????

[@mattdavis9601]

I have an X2 Pro. It's been my main controller for a year now. One other huge upgrade over the normal X2 is Hall Effect analog triggers. The normal X2 and X3 just have buttons.

[@MrGonz801]

I literally saw this as i was purchasing my Backbone, but you know what? Most of the retro games i play are fighting games, so being Hadoukenable and Shoryukenable is really important to me amd i havent had any issues with the backbone so far. Also, the gen 2 of the backbone (which is what i bought) lets you keep the case on

[@1InvisionProductions]

I almost never take my phone case off, so if they designed it a little better to fit a phone case that would be appreciated. Also would be cool if it stretched far enough to fit an iPad without having to mod it.

[@timrecords6875]

I am in the same boat, and just struggled to take my phone case off but did it finally! And still think it's a good purchase! My thinking is that during those late night gaming seshes I don't need it to be in a case, and I'm usually not going anywhere where I need to put it back on the case. Although that also means I'm giving myself a limited time to play only in the evenings!

[@jackbauer2698]

Try shanwan q17

[@Nickbaldeagle02]

Take a Stanley knife to the rubber bumper where the USB C is. My S23 Ultra with a case works just fine.

[@srobeck77]

u gotta customize that case with an exacto knife because the controller is bigger enough, but the usb-c just isnt 2" long to jam into that Otter box case

[@srobeck77]

Actually the GS8+ recently dropped and is what u seek. It uses bluetooth instead of usb-c so you can keep that fat case made in your moms chucky profile while using it.

[@XhoowieX]

I gave up waiting for reviews on this thing, went ahead and ordered one. Now while it's in the post it gets the seal of approval from the best retro review 😄 looking forward to its arrival now.

[@JgHaverty]

For those interested... you can take a razor blade and shave off the right side rubber bumpers to allow you to install your phone with a case into it. I dont actually know why they designed it this way, as shaving the bumpers off does not affect stability in *any* way. You can use surprisingly large cases when you shave the bumpers off, and they come off *incredibly* easily. (just run the blade parallel to the back plate and wiggle it down, they shave off in pleasant strips). Ive had genuinely no issues with stability using it with an samsung note 20 ultra and a LG v60.

[@GarrettTobyC13]

You can also take it apart and remove a couple retention clips that will allow it to telescope to support up to 12 inch tablet!

[@Deadguy2322forreal]

It wouldn't be a Razer product without at least one idiotic design decision, like how none of their PlayStation controllers have the correct stick placement.

[@B-Diddy-6]

Awesome info! Quick question I haven't really seen anyone mention, does this controller have any vibration/haptics at all? I've found that's the only thing keeping from moving away from a clip and an Xbox Series controller.

[@thatdarnskag5043]

My brain legit went “why is this person talking about a gaming laptop on _this_ video?” until I read further on.

[@JgHaverty]

@imthecoolestdudeevar the g8 does not have haptics... but that doesnt matter because your phone does lol. Just enable it on your emulator or game.

[@HockeyPlayer323]

Been waiting for this review, watching it now!

[@crashbandicoot5636]

Got a Gamesir T4 Pro last year and it didn't last me 6 months. Really sucks, they rejected my request to get it fixed because I didn't buy it DIRECTLY from their site. Really steering clear from them because of this experience. This year I bought an 8bitdo Ultimate C and it did start to drift a bit due to clicking in on the left stick, but the customer support for 8bitdo was awesome and were willing to get it fixed/replaced despite being from a different seller. Love that type of after sales service, might stick with 8bitdo and first party controllers for now (unless Gamesir fixes their customer support)

[@molybdnum]

Unfortunately there's no phone+controller option from 8BitDo outside of a clip for their bluetooth ones. I'd love to see them get into the niche a little more, but the competition are all a few generations deep in refinements to phone retention and app development.

[@relsre]

@@molybdnum I wouldn't mind that, but at the same time I also don't mind 8BitDo sticking to their strengths, maybe refining their clips a bit more for interoperability with both first party and their own controllers. Maybe I'm biased, but I've always preferred the controller+clip solution for gaming on phones, since you can re-use the same controller for consoles/PC. As strange as it sounds, I would've been more tempted by the Gamesir G8 if it had options (wired or BT) to connect to PCs/consoles!

[@WissenYT]

My G8 does work with PS4 remote play in white mode, but only on my newer phone. It might be an internal driver issue. Also I'm using a thicker silicone case with it and it works.

[@tangocat73]

Would love to see how it would fit a 7 inch or 8 inch tablet. Let’s homebrew a PS portable!

[@srobeck77]

you need the GS8+ to handle a tablet

[@garethmorgan7105]

Bought this based on your review to play Xbox cloud on iPhone. Played for a couple hours so far and the feel of the controller is very good

[@itsahill89]

Random-ish question! Does the G8 also let you use it as a controller on a computer? The backbone lets you use a wire to connect to a computer and use it as a controller on a computer which helps save a little space when traveling.

[@illuminati229]

I want to know this answer too! But I ordered one anyone, so I'll be able to tell you on Monday!

[@ollyma5907]

Yes, seems like all you need is a type-c female to usb-a male cable.😆😆

[@srobeck77]

If you want to use as a bluetooth controller for the PC then you want the GS8+ version

[@joey_gunnz7830]

another great video. Thank you for all the great help and information.

[@sambird7]

8Bitdo really needs to make one of these. They would be able to do it better and probably cheaper.

[@Paulypies]

Just got mine after watching this. Thanks for the discount code btw. I’m using an iPhone 15 Pro Max and it works like a dream. Just make sure you press the Start/Menu + Select/View buttons together to switch modes to the “white” PS mode for it to work. Even better news is that it works with my case, with a slight modification. My case is the leather Mujjo brand case. Basically similar to what would have been the Apple Leather case, if they hadn’t stopped making them. With the case on the phone, the controller lines up with the USB-C port perfectly, but they don’t connect deep enough to connect when the case is on. You’ll see in the video that there are little rubber gripping teeth where the controller clamps your phone. I simply used a Stanley/craft knife to shave about half a mm or so off the teeth and voila! I can use the G8 controller with or without my case on. Couldn’t be happier with it. The controller seems very good so far.

[@TierNoneOperator]

I have a miyoo mini plus, and several modded ds lites. I've been wanting to get something like a 405v or similar to play higher end systems. Honestly, I'm leaning towards a game controller for my phone. It would he able to play every game I want, including ds (my phone screen spit in two is still larger than the original dsl screens 😂) and could do game streaming.

[@sterling68]

Definitely getting this after watching your video!! Few people at work have the backbone ad after endless amount of videos on various controllers I'm settling with this one for my S24 Ultra. Your code isn't working on Amazon but i think its because I'm UK.

[@tomfreeman1967]

Did you get any joy on the code code?

[@burger-enjoyer]

Would be interesting to see this controller with Galaxy Fold. These have nice, more square displays.

[@volcalstone]

yeah but the only problem is that the plug is on the right side instead of the left which is more foldable friendly. It seems like the only controller that is out there right now with a left sided USB-C plug is the GameSir X2 as shown in this video. I just ordered that one for my Pixel Fold and I believe it will be a perfect fit. I also ended up getting this G8 as well for all my other devices.

[@albyx]

Man, I literally just sent an order for a Razer Kishi V2 on Amazon. It was 80 bucks and the quality of this controller already sounds better.

[@jjayala]

Return and get this my kishi 2 sucks lol. I mean maybe I'm spoiled but the joycons (and I don't mind joycons) are cheap and break super easily

[@manuelberenguerrojas7271]

My experience so far has been terrible with this device, it continually desyncs within retroarch. I'm having trouble with n64 key mapping, but Retroarch or my Android device could be at fault. I also had a lot of trouble getting out of PS mode. I just can't configure it for n64, mind you I've had no trouble with Retroarch on pc, steamdeck or my main Android phone with a regular Bluetooth controller. SOLVED! I re-calibrated the device using the gamesir app and I'm not getting random disconnects anymore, or weird auto turbo on the triggers. Even my L2 wasn't working, now everything seems perfect. My old LG v40 is getting some use again!

[@srobeck77]

it works great with android games. for those quirky retro emulations, it will always be a struggle because they are the wild west of various software configurations

[@Durelle_]

Your Review was Perfect!, im definitely going to get one of these once I get my S24 Ultra

[@DropPCTV]

I’ve been using the Backbone since it came out, and I never once felt like the phone was gonna break while I was plugging it in. And I always have the biggest iPhone right now the 15 promax. Definitely would have to be ultra clumsy to get it to break trying to do that.

[@jamiegerrish3800]

Extremely comprehensive review, very helpful, and VERY impressed. Worried if I leave it long enough,I will have a controller collection as big as yours 😂

[@user_friendly86]

uhhh...telescopic controller...Galileo...it's right in the name

[@gilallday1]

Lmao right

[@cincyfan987]

I have the gamevice flex. Very overlooked controller and best part is it fits all phone cases.

[@srobeck77]

the GS8+ version of this over bluetooth also fits all cases and tablets too

[@reeddacted]

I imagine this controller with an ipad mini or a foldable would feel pretty damn good

[@Jvstnick]

I can confirm the Backbone controller on my OnePlus open. Folding phone is incredible.

[@volcalstone]

​@@JvstnickIsn't the screen more on the bottom side since the USB-C plug is on the right? This is not ideal and that's why I just ordered the GameSir X2 with the D-paid instead as it's the only one out there with the plug on the left side instead. I will be using it on my Pixel Fold and I believe this will be perfect when it comes in a couple of days. The price on it was pretty good as well even tho I know it's an older controller but to me as long as it's comfortable that's all that matters.

[@Stockarts]

I have the galaxy fold 3 and yes the x2 works good with it. But I don't like the sticks and buttons of the x2 they feel cheap and clicky.

[@volcalstone]

@@Stockarts I'm going to try it out and see how it goes. Kinda sucks that it doesn't have analog triggers tho. I'm not a fan of small thumbsticks as well.

[@rayak_pictures]

Thanks for changing your mind and reviewing it for us !

[@Topgunnder]

The markets needs to make a phone that is 16/9 and not ultra slim - as long as it has a good chip i would buy it in a heartbeat

[@nameresu]

Find used Huawei Mate 9, 16:9, almost 6 inches, type-c, it has powerful enough CPU for GC or PS2, light years faster than unisoc Tiger T618. And good screen to body ratio.

[@thraxberserker9960]

There are countless phones like that

[@nameresu]

@@thraxberserker9960 no. 10 phones. Or less. 16:9, top CPU to that time, type-c.

[@J.Wick.]

I've been very happy with my NACON MGX and MGX Pro. They work great for a Galaxy Fold device. I cant notice any input lag. But I couldn't care less about fighting games. With the Fold, its very important where the USB plug is on these things. It limits the choices a bit. The Nacons not having that issue helped. That Gamesir looks nice. I'd probably buy it if I hadn't already bought the Nacons 2 or so yrs ago

[@thomas.deliot]

The one thing kinda missing here is the ability to put your phone inside it in portrait mode. I had a cheap telescopic controller (Saitake 7007f) that could do that with my phone... And it's the basolute perfect way to emulate NDS games, like there's nothing better out there for it. Problem is, can't do that with a "wired" controller or they'd require removable usb-c plugs both on the sides and the bottom somehow... Or maybe just a small wire ? Anyway, it's a bummer that this can't do that. If it did I would've purchased in a heart beat It's also the perfect solution the the "too wide" problem for playing games in 4:3 ! You get a setup that's only half as wide and still as comfortable

[@kingmaniactech]

Just ordered this since Delta has released on the iOS app store. My iPhone will keep me sane on the bus rides to and from work playing Gameboy games :D.

[@JeffBreyer]

I'm glad to see a good option here. I've just never wanted to game with my phone. Mine gets used enough as it is I'd be charging it three times a day if i gamed on it as well. Dragging around an extra battery is not an option for me. Glad that others have an option though.

[@bipbop3121]

I want to, but yes, battery life is a killer. Even when I upgrade, thanks to battery degradation, it'll still be an issue. I bought a Razer Kishi v1 & really I need to sell it, because the whole remove case and damage my USB C port, just isn't it for me. Even though I want the SD 888 emulation possibilities of my phone, an $20 - $80 handheld is still likely better, about that battery life.

[@capoman1]

I love your videos. Soothing. And nice to see what tech exists out there and what the quirks or pros and cons are... I can say though, I'VE WATCHED ENOUGH of your videos at this time to feel that I know what he best picks are... If I were gonna buy a device it would be the Odin 2, and the Retroid 4 pro if I wanted something lighter. Thanks for the great information and all the work.

[@mikec1554]

Promotion code didn't work

[@NickyNunchucks69]

I think so. Tried it as well :( BUT the code for the gamesir official site works AND its $60 usd after code with free shipping.

[@wanggaard]

I have not done it in awhile, but I've searched ebay multiple times for a V60 since you spoke well of it a year or two ago. This video rekindled that interest. Have not found a provider I was satisfied with as a daily driver though

[@TheBlueDsc]

I tried out one of their other controllers a while back but unfortunately had to return it. I prefer the bulkier cases on my phones and unfortunately controllers like these just aren't designed with that in mind so they're pretty well unusable.

[@TheDeadlyTikka]

when it comes to these controller for your phones you need to consider we all have a phone, likely a really powerful one that can play games better than a stand alone so its a really solid option. It doesn't compete with a standalone solution but its certainly worth trying out.

[@jc74435]

I will not buy a phone controller unless it fits my phone WITH a case.

[@nonyabusiness-f9e]

backbone gen 2

[@hectorgomez401]

You can cut the rubber grip where the USB C connector is located, and it fits thick cases, I saw this mod on Reddit, and worked perfectly

[@RangerAlone]

Logically I can see why they don't make them. The thickness of phone cases largely varies. Razer Kishi came close. You can remove the rubber parts to fit a phone case. Although, it's specifically made for the Razer phone and the case that comes in the box. My Samsung S22 almost fit with a case. The camera lens messes it up though.

[@Nickbaldeagle02]

​@@hectorgomez401I can confirm that it didn't work for me.

[@Nickbaldeagle02]

This will if you cut out the rubber bumper where the USB C is

[@juliobonetti]

Amazing review! I just ordered mine. I'd love to mod it and attach it to my Galaxy Tab S9 (not sure if I have the skills, though). That'd be a kickass emulation machine!

[@joshbarthur]

Doesn't even recognize my Pixel 6 via USBC and pass through charging doesn't work either. 80 bucks for a paper weight and no reply from the customer service department. Waste of money.

[@thalia.viraldreams5737]

"hadoukenable and shoriyukenable" - the best way I've heard this function/motion test described

[@MegaDeox]

80 bucks for a controller for your phone. Not only is that way too much, I also agree with you that it's really hard to get immersed in a game on android. It just doesn't feel like a console.

[@mr.bright]

My odin2 is thinking different :-)

[@PantsaBear]

Im sorry but what is "way too much" about that? People have no issue chalking up $70-80 for a dualsense, xbox controller, or extremely low quality joy cons (many or all of those are missing features that this controller has). PS Portal just came out for $200, and the only thing that has over this is an ok screen and the high-end haptics. If Gamesir makes a good premium product with premium R&D and premium materials, charge appropriately for it If you wanna pay $20 for a controller for your phone, thats fine, but more often than not youre making compromises in some area on top of the whole Android thing. Im glad options like this exist that really make it feel like gaming with your phone is a thing you can do viably

[@MegaDeox]

@@PantsaBear I have an issue with paying 80 for a dualsense too.

[@RvEllorquez]

Who play android games though? Lol. Android is there for emulation. Tons of games from nes to ps2 and switch is playable.

[@Fleur_de_lis2k]

Wow, they sure did their homework @ Gamesir. Great review, thanks!

[@Seanman23x]

I started with Xbox game streaming on a Kishi and a G8. Is really good for someone who doesn't want to spend a lot. Then I got a Steam Deck and found my old 3DS. Recently I got a 35xxsp and a Vita and I've been following your guides

[@zefuros]

Just doing the comedian here, but this does not seem so much as a dedicated review rather a comparison video or rather both actually , but i enjoyed it as i am looking in the market for a solution, you earned a new sub :D

[@fullmetalalgebriste2873]

The advantage of the gamesir X2 with the USB c on the left side make it perfect for foldable phone

[@Face_RC]

I bought a Gamesir X2 Pro a while back and its awesome. I've been really happy with Gamesir as a whole. They are making pretty slick hardware.

[@rin_blank5830]

Does this work on pixel 7 pro?

[@brandonrodgers9365]

Glad you made this review bc you made my purchase easy will be going with the gamesir g8 thanks

[@DomDomPop]

Honestly I did fine with a Backbone for a long time, but who in their right mind has ever said “I wish my controller had loud ass buttons”? It’s such a boneheaded move that made it impossible to use in bed with my wife sleeping. Now that I’ve got an iPhone 15, I’d rather get this than another Backbone. Thanks for the code!

[@GameTechTalk]

Thanks, great review!

[@RafidW9]

This is the best setup for moonlight/steam link. I've been exclusive gaming on my phone with moonlight lately, and I use the gulikut ns09. Seeing hall effect on a controller like this is really nice.

[@TheScripflipNetwork]

So timely. I was thinking this morning that I gotta get a better controller for gfn on my phone

[@OGTechNick]

I was so happy to see this review from you. I ordered one a week ago and it’s on the way. I recently covered the budget BSP-D8 which for a $20 Bluetooth telescopic controller that can fit phones with cases (even Switch) it’s pretty amazing. It has analog triggers and the sticks have a 0.7% average circularity error. They claim to both be hall sensor. I have yet to confirm if it’s true but they work so well. I know it’s not in the same ballpark with the G8, especially in regards to ergonomics and build quality, but it’s a nice budget option for those who can’t afford this. It stretches super wide too. I hope to someday hear you call me a friend like @RetroBreeze because I consider you guys fam. Btw.. I was the one who posted the RG35XX with your reflection on Reddit 😅

[@OGTechNick]

@igr7011 oh nice! Thanks for letting me know

[@JamieR]

Top tier review Rus. I pulled the trigger to pair it with a OnePlus 12 as my main way of playing games. Waiting for Switch 2 to buy anything else as I don't own a TV any longer and don't want to be chained to a PC to play games. This seems like the perfect controller for android. Comfortable, quality and can support tablets as well. I've seen people pair Galaxy Tab S9's with it and play GeforceNow / Xbox Game Pass with it. Pretty incredible!

[@DropPCTV]

For the iPhone the Backbone has been perfect. I have both the black and the white one for PlayStation problem is I don’t like playing mini games on the phone. A few Apple Arcade games like shredders, revenge and house of the dead but I like playing on a dedicated a lot more not worrying about killing the battery or lugging another piece of equipment around for the phone.

[@Roxaschan]

The GameSir X2 is still the only one that really "works" for foldable phones. By necessity of design, putting it in with the USB-C on the right side leaves the opened part pointing down toward your stomach. The USB-C on the left side means it can fold open upright, like a DS instead, and makes it much more natural to hold. I do wish they made it an option for their newer controllers, too, given the increasing popularity and power of foldables nowadays.

[@blackhawkthepirate]

The Fixture M1 looks great if you don’t mind the phone-mounted-to-controller form factor. It uses Apple’s MagSafe, but you can get magnetic rings or cases for whatever phone you have, and MagSafe works with so many other accessories, so why not? I’d love to see some Android phones start to add MagSafe magnets to really bring that convenience to everyone!

[@joseluis.colungag]

Seeing the Gamevice Flex makes me cry. You were fortunate to be able to get one. Now they are out of stock everywhere and Gamevice won't make another run.

[@georged7627]

Funny thing is that i watched retrobreeze video last night 🙏🏾

[@Merkw]

Galileo designed, built and improved several telescope designs of his time and use them to make pioneering astronomical observations. So the connection is with the telescope word only.

[@XianRee]

I modded mine to fit a Redmi pad se 8.7. I use a Xundd cases, which is too thick, hence the usb-c could not plug in to the device. What I did is I cut a portion of the rubber on the side of the usb-c port, which is intended to cushion the device, I cut it in a way that I could still put it back if I wanted to. I was able to connect my tablet and Xundd case now works as the cushion (barely). The total weight is around 740g, which is still lighter than a steam deck with a Spigen case (which is about 820g+). But the gamesir is just way more ergonomic. Do note that, if you use a device without a case or one with a thin case without the rubber on the usb-c side, then that might damage your device's usb-c port.

[@pkilljoy5797]

The razer kishi really soured me on these kinds of products but its nice to see them getting better and cheaper

[@eurosoe]

It’s beautiful! 🤩 I love the gameboy and snes inspired devices!