Retro Fighters Defender PS1, PS2, PS3, & PS Classic Controller Review

In this episode, we unbox and test out the Defender wireless controller for the PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, pc, and Switch from Retro Fighters.
For years, the team from Retro Fighters has dedicated themselves to making some of the best third-party retro controllers ever produced. Their original controller, the Jab Pad for the NESm completely changed the design and layout for a Nintendo controller, and that left people curious for more. Next, the Brawler64, reimagined what you could expect from a controller for the N64. They've subsequently created controllers for the Dreamcast and the Genesis. In late 2021, they announced they were hitting Kickstarter with a new controller designed for the PlayStation family of consoles, and the result is what you see here in the Defender wireless controller.
Out of the box, this 2.4 GHz wireless controller includes dongles for both the PlayStation and Playstation 2, along with a USB dongle. This means it will be compatible with the original two PlayStations, and the PlayStation 3! It also promises compatibility with the PC and Switch. It comes in four different colors, black, classic gray, blue, and green. I opted for the Blue version because I've always liked that transparent blue on a PlayStation controller. The cool thing is the PlayStation dongle matches the color of the controller, however, the USB dongle is a simple Gray.
If you've ever held any of the previous Retro Fighters controllers, the Defender will feel very familiar to you. It shares a lot of the design ergonomics of the Brawler64 and the StrikerDC, albeit more refined and even more comfortable in my opinion. The face buttons all feature the PlayStation button logos, square, circle, triangle, and cross and they are all pressure sensitive as well. There are also buttons for turbo, a home button, a punch button which essentially acts as a macro for you, a capture button for the Switch, and of course your four shoulder buttons. L2 and R2 are analog well L1 and R1 are both digital. The analog sticks are incredibly smooth, and they also feature the L3 and R3 button compatibility. The D-pad is decent, not exceptional but not terrible but definitely usable.
After I charged the Defender, I got to playing. I forgot where I put my PSONE S-Video cable, so I simply played my PlayStation 1 games through my PlayStation 2, connected by HD Retrovision cables to my RetroTink 5x. From the word go, PS1 games felt terrific, the analog stick and d-pad both working as they should. One thing that is interesting is you can actually map the right analog stick to mimic the face button functionality, something I don't know why you would want but hey, they threw it in there for you.
Moving on to PlayStation 2 games, it was more of the same, simply exceptional control. After several hours of playing some Ratchet and Clank, I turned my attention to my PlayStation 3. One of the beautiful things about the Defender is how easily it pairs with the dongles. There's no convoluted pairing process, plug in the dongle, hit the pairing button on the back of the controller, and you're now paired to the other dongle. My PS3 DualShock 3 controller batteries have been on their last lives for some time, so having something like this for my PS3 is nothing short of brilliant. I was able to play first-person shooters without issue, racing games without issue, and complex platformers without any issue. This is now my go-to way to play my PlayStation 3.
Next stop, I did a quick test on my Nintendo Switch. I mean, the PlayStation exists because of Nintendo so it's ironically appropriate wouldn't you think? The one thing that shocked me was how much more powerful the rumble was playing Switch games than on the PlayStation. I didn't expect this. I don't know if it's the way that Nintendo codes their games versus Sony or what but the rumble was a lot more powerful. And much like it had with other systems, it worked flawlessly.
Why it RoX:
- Amazing performance
- Terrific battery life
- Outstanding ergonomics
- Includes both USB and Playstation dongles
- Available in four different colors
- USB-C for charging
- Reasonably priced
- Works with PlayStation, PS2, PS3, PS Classic, PC, and Switch
What could be improved:
- USB dongle doesn't match the controller color
- D-pad is a little mushy
- What happened to the Retro Fighter keychains?
Should you buy one?
The Defender is, to date, Retro Fighters' finest controller. The performance and quality is amongst the best I've ever tested for the PlayStation, and that's including OEM controllers. Some may not love the d-pad, it's functional, but the rest of the controller is without a doubt terrific. Add in the benefit of using it with so many different consoles and you have a clear winner. It's comfortable, it's responsive, and it is truly awesome. If you are in need of a controller for your OG PlayStation, PS2, or PS3, this is a must-own.
#RetroFighters #Defender #Playstation

[@RoXolid]

Order the Defender Wireless Controller from Retro Fighters by visiting castlemaniagames.com/products/retro-fighters-defender-playstation-2-4ghz-wireless-controller?ref=RoXolid Check out all of our 3D Printed items by visiting roxolid-productions.weeblysite.com/ Join this channel to get access to perks: kzbin.info/door/znAOWQLsiCAMNRq9fzQJpwjoin Follow Us on Social Media! Instagram - @RoXolidProductionsGK Twitter - @RoXolidStudios Facebook - facebook.com/RoXolidProductions/ Get early access to our videos and support RoXolid Productions for as low as a dollar a month through our Patreon page, www.patreon.com/RoXolid Looking for some RoXolid Merch? Check out our T-Spring store for shirts and swag at teespring.com/roxolid-productions-official-s Would you like to have your products featured on RoXolid Productions? Do you have Questions? Comments? Email us at [e-mail]!!

[@Hey_Its_Thor]

boo back ordered

[@RoXolid]

More are coming!

[@zviedelman9015]

Quick question, why didn't you test this on the PC?

[@RoXolid]

@@zviedelman9015 Completely fair question. I don't game on my PC, my computer is strictly a video production workstation.

[@zviedelman9015]

@@RoXolid Completely fair answer too. Thanks for letting me know.

[@mjc0961]

Never forget: if they won't sell something anymore, pirate it. They've already lost the sale by not selling it.

[@RoXolid]

Yeah, not so much. If someone doesn't want to sell me their content I have 0 rights to something I didn't create. But that's me, you do you man.

[@xXRustyShacklefordXx]

@@RoXolid I pirate literally everything. I'm a linux user so it just comes natural.

[@Aberusugi]

@@xXRustyShacklefordXx that doesn't make sense. You aren't pirating Linux, Linux is free and open source.

[@RoXolid]

@@xXRustyShacklefordXx You do you, not how I want to play

[@hinfinity]

Faxxxxx

[@Real_Sgt_Tom]

I'm looking forward to these since it's so hard finding decent PS3 controllers that aren't Chinese bootleg crap these days.

[@RoXolid]

Can I get an AMEN!?

[@OmniNexuz]

The Pressure Sensitive Buttons have my attention since not a lot of Modern Controllers have those which is something to note since the few games that do use them like Metal Gear often act kinda funny without them 🤔

[@RoXolid]

I get that!

[@b1ackmesagame]

I was looking for a good, reliable wireless controller to use for my PS2 (that wasn't of questionable quality, or used) and while I have some other RF controllers, I had no idea this one existed. I have a very rambunctious doggo, so using the original cabled controller to play PS2 from the couch is not an option. I already trust the quality of RF, but wanted to make sure this was my solution before buying one, and you touched on all of the questions I had about the controller. I really appreciate your review!

[@VittC-sl1ee]

ps5 controller wingman adapter

[@ladic]

bought it because of all the highly rated reviews, but my experience was that the D pad is garbage, it sinks into the controller when you press it. The other button and analog sticks were decent, but the controller itself felt light weight and cheap for the premium price.

[@HeroTubeHD]

Retro Fighters did an excellent job for the Defender and I absolutely love it and use it all the time Gary.

[@billcook4768]

I don’t care what Sony claims, it’s an X, not a cross.

[@Aberusugi]

Sony deliberately called it cross to avoid any shred of liability if Nintendo decided to do a frivolous lawsuit. But yeah, no one growing up called it cross lol

[@RoXolid]

I don't disagree

[@TheMultiGunMan]

I'm a huge fan of the Playstation Controllers as well. Playstation was on point when they designed their Controllers. I'm very interested in this Retro Fighters Defender Controller.

[@RoXolid]

I like the PS controllers a lot, but this is even better IMO. The Defender is sooooo good!

[@TheMultiGunMan]

@@RoXolid I will have to order a pair of Controllers. I've got a a PS1, PS2 and a PS3.

[@RoXolid]

Very cool!

[@letterm6656]

This is a very good overall replacement for the worn out ps1/2. However, I would recommend looking else if you're getting it for fighting games. While the controller feels good in the hands and should work for most games, the dpad is terrible for a controller marketed as a fighter.

[@RoXolid]

If you use the D-pad for fighters I don't disagree. The D-Pad is the weak spot of this controller.

[@Wtf123z]

3 questions, so is this still a great controller for ps3 if you don’t care abt the motion, also i think I’m leaning toward more of the bluetuth controller, can it have 4 controllers on the ps3 of this controller/ preferably the Bluetooth one

[@Wtf123z]

Of* not or

[@RoXolid]

Yes, it's so good!

[@31jeffburton]

This controller is what I’m looking for, going back to retro games with OG controllers feels super hard to control

[@RoXolid]

These are excellent

[@jessejones1783]

hi would you recommend i should buy that Retro Fighters controller for like Ps1 and Ps2 and Ps3

[@RoXolid]

Cannot recommend it highly enough!

[@billcook4768]

I have no idea why you have the Yoshi’s Story Theme in the background, but I like it.

[@RoXolid]

Inside joke, Jay from Square Pegs hates is. So I toss it in from time to time just to tweak him

[@druknape4026]

I think it's a cool product over all, but as far buying one? I think have to pass because I already have the brook receiver for the ps2, which works perfectly fine for me. Moreover,I can pair my ps4 controller with it and that is good enough for me personally.

[@biggrob187]

I was able to re-download all the games I've already purchased, including the DuckTales and The Simpsons arcade.

[@RoXolid]

I never purchased Simpsons Arcade, I just downloaded the demo

[@malecus7664]

Thanks for the review. I physically have all consoles compatible with the controller so this will be my “One Ring”! Will probably get the GC/Wii/Switch iteration also. Wonder if there is one for OG Xbox and 360?

[@pintoshintobean9583]

Yeah, I think if you check their website, they made or are making an Xbox controller

[@TrantaLocked]

I would prefer to have the old dualshock dome sticks. Do DS3 replacements work in this?

[@SuperMillwall]

Why would you want the old style? There’s no grip and you have less control over the analog stick. Dome sticks are awful and uncomfortable.

[@TrantaLocked]

@@SuperMillwall The domes are better for games made for them, especially games that require high analog accuracy like Ace Combat. It doesn't really make sense not to want to play with the shape the game was developed on.

[@DeafGamersTV]

Would this controller be able to work with PS2 games on a Backward Comp PS3 due to the need of dualshock 2 six axis?

[@waynetemplar2183]

I've just put a back order in for one of these because I am so hacked off with buying fake PS3 controllers and sub-standard wireless PS2 controllers

[@RoXolid]

I think you'll be quite happy

[@rodjefdam]

same here.

[@peterbruin5154]

What's the analogue stick sensitivity like? Find the ps3 controller sticks are too sensitive for ps1 games.

[@RoXolid]

I think they're pretty fantastic myself

[@Psmgamer]

Just ordered one since it was on sale for $37. Will go nice with my PS3 and Switch.

[@RoXolid]

NICE!

[@JoelPerez-qr1dp]

If I have a hacked ps classic. Will the analog sticks work on some of them?

[@RoXolid]

I don't think so, I tested that here in the video but I don't remember 100%

[@vesselinkrastev]

To me the most important thing is that it has pressure sensitive buttons. I know it's not super important in most games but it's important to me and I wasn't aware of any other new third party controllers that have this feature.

[@bland9876]

another comment clames this controller has them.

[@8BitGlitch79]

I need to pick one of these up at some point... and they have GREEN!

[@RoXolid]

I was waiting for that

[@bigboiGRIFF]

Well my ps2 controller of 17 years finally kicked the bucket. So I guess this will be the replacement

[@zackfair872]

can you do a video test pressure sensitive and sixaxis on ps3? there's numbers of game use that features like mgs 2-3-4 !

[@Captain_Dark]

Six axis isn't on these. They are making a model with it.

[@Klawhauser353]

Great controller thanks for the review I like the color of the controller that you I'm actually a big fan of Streets of rage games have a great day 🎉

[@RoXolid]

Thanks for watching.

[@musclemark2710]

I need a ps3 controller badly!

[@RoXolid]

This is a great option

[@FurryMetalFerretVT]

on the ps3, does the PShome buttom work? does it power on the system?

[@RoXolid]

I think so... I don't rememeber 100% but 98% I think it does.

[@poopikins]

I don't believe it powers on the system

[@williamcarswell3012]

How does it work on ps3 shooters and does it have the motion sensor for certain levels on certain games?

[@thedarthflagger]

Do the analog sticks work with pacman on Namco museum?

[@RoXolid]

I don't have it to test, sorry

[@hanzobi1926]

After testing this with SF Zero 1-3, EX Plus Alpha and Tekken 1-3, I found the D-pad to not be so good and also, moves were coming out randomly due to the Left and Right Shoulder Buttons sensitivity.

[@RoXolid]

I didn't notice the should buttons but yes, the D pad is not a strength.

[@michaelboth6844]

I absolutely agree! The D-pad is very inaccurate and the biggest flaw of this controller. For example pressing "down" on the D-pad often triggers "left" or "right". I played some THPS 1 & 2 today and this happened a lot. If you want to play games that need precise inputs on the D-pad (e.g. fighting games) then the defender is unfortunately not for you. I also agree about the shoulder buttons (L2/R2) being too sensitive. Their implementation is vastly different from the original Playstation controllers. They don´t have a noticeable (clicking) actuation point and I constantly find myself activating them because I my index fingers slightly touch them from time to time. Besides that, the controller seems great, which makes these flaws even more annoying because otherwise, this could have been a near-perfect product.

[@rasec202]

I see my name in the manual lol

[@RoXolid]

That's awesome

[@ariathyf144]

As expected, in fighter games the d-pad of PSx controller sucks.

[@snx70]

You can still download the PS3 PSN titles even if they are not listed on the store.

[@RoXolid]

Without pirating it?

[@RoXolid]

@Nelson Cuevas yeah, unfortunately I never bought it originally.

[@tw3nz0r]

Still waiting on mine, but thanks for showing the manual! Love seeing my name in it!!

[@RoXolid]

It's so good, I'm happy to have backed it

[@maikkelimiks]

Is there any delay on the controller?

[@MegaHardrod]

ordered mine 2 days ago

[@RoXolid]

Very cool

[@wyldelf2685]

A wireless PS-2 and PS3 controller in one Gamepad is excellent 👍 ROX this is music to my ears 👌👍 awesome review man , this company's Brawler64 gamepad both wired and the wireless is one of the greatest gifts to retrogaming of this decade , , , and now they've created another Mona Lisa with this Wireless PS2 & PS3 Masterpiece gamepad , ,bravo 👏👏👍👏

[@SquarePegs]

Thank you Gary!!

[@RoXolid]

Who are you again? :P

[@roshi61704]

I got mine today, it works good on my PS2 and PS3, however on PC, it constantly is "pressing" buttons on the controller when I'm not pressing anything

[@RoXolid]

Weird, I would contact retrofighters

[@roshi61704]

@@RoXolid Alright I will

[@RoXolid]

Unfortunately I just don't PC game so I don't have any experience with testing on those

[@roshi61704]

@@RoXolid That's okay, I sent them an email. Honestly, I feel like I'm just missing something simple.

[@roshi61704]

@@RoXolid BRUH. All I had to do was put the dongle in another USB port. I had to reply to my email saying disregard these emails LOL

[@ScarletAmethyst]

There's another reason for getting the Defender. The biggest issue of getting a new controller are the fake PlayStation controllers sold on Amazon. Similar to the fake Nintendo GameCube/Wii/Wii U controllers, these controllers are usually not as good as the genuine Sony controllers, often not performing well or not lasting well (and wireless ones having poor battery life). A good new third-party controller could solve the fake controller issue. I'd just wish anyone would do the same for the GameCube, Wii (and Wii U), and even Xbox 360. And yes, I do agree with the PS3 controller's battery given that a bad/aging DS3 battery will give the controller shorter life which isn't good compared to the Xbox 360 or Wii Remote with AA NiMH batteries. Fortunately, the fake controllers can be easy to spot by how it looks compared to the genuine controller. A notable fact is that Sony and Nintendo (or third-party companies Hori, PDP, and PowerA) *never* sells their controllers in packs nor does Nintendo sell the Wii Remote with the Nunchuk although the Nunchuk _is_ included along with the Wii Remote or Wii Remote Plus depending on the model. I don't know how the D-Pad works compared to the Sony controllers. I've noticed that some games might not work well on third-party controllers using a + shaped D-Pad if the direction isn't pushed exactly centered compared to the Sony controller, an example is The Sims and The Sims Bustin' Out which has you hold the D-Pad to view Motives, Skills/Job, and Relationships or games with 4 direction menus. On the Sony DualShock 2, it works with no issues, but third-party controllers have issues with this. This might not be a big deal since most PS2 and PS3 games usually don't use the D-Pad a lot but that is something to keep in mind.

[@bland9876]

i hate the shape of the playstaion 1/2/3 controller but i like the stick placement. the sticks need to be aligned like a wii u or 8bitdo sn30 pro2. heck if you use both pads then the steam controller counts as well.

[@lashawnhampton32]

Have u every use Logitech controller for PlayStation 2

[@RoXolid]

Back in the day I think I did

[@johngonzalez723]

I got this controller, but when I’m playing Guitar Hero 2 the buttons are very slow, what can I do?

[@theexile4694]

Why are you playing Guitar Hero 2 with this controller and not one of the guitar controllers?

[@theexile4694]

How do you have your PS2 hooked up to your tv? What kind of TV are you using? Which ports on the TV are you using to hook up the console? Are you using a proper retro scaler inbetween the console and tv? How long are you cables? How far away are you from the controller's receiver and console? Is this a microwave near by? Is there a Wi-Fi router near by? Retro consoles and Wireless technology have quirks you have to account for before you get the intended experience. This is why I always prefer wires with my controllers.

[@johngonzalez723]

@@theexile4694 I figured it out, I just reset my input lag to 0 and it worked lmao

[@darthkahn45]

If you're planning on parting with $50 for this would not reccomend, I hate it

[@RoXolid]

Sorry you feel that way, I love these myself

[@NiteOwlJoe]

Why do you hate it?

[@darthkahn45]

@@NiteOwlJoe Was really excited about it until I actually got my hands on it. Big, noticable deadzones on the analouge sticks, the shape of it makes it really uncomfortable to hold, sixaxis is about half as responsive as a DS3, same with the pressure sensitive buttons. I (genuinely) accidently trod on it while it was on the ground face up and because of how the wierd way the triggers are positioned 100% of the weight was on them, causing them to fly out and break.

[@RoXolid]

@duncanmacleod7287 Right, you got me, I might as well shut my channel down. Or, if you pay attention, I do actually convert things that I like and what could be improved on every product review. Read the description, I have a section dedicated towards that right there. Because my credibility is more important than "freebies". I've also provided feedback to manufacturers that they've used to actually improve products and address issues.

[@RoXolid]

@duncanmacleod7287 I'm not getting confrontational I'm asking a legit question here, did you watch the video? You saw my gameplay footage then if you did, and saw I did not experience any issues. My integrity is worth more than a $50 product sample, something to keep in mind. Another thing to keep in mind, I have gone on this very channel and criticized the stick performance on the N64 switch online controller, and people say that I'm nuts there. Different people look for different responsiveness as they're playing. That's why there are many multiple choices out there. I've also taken manufacturers to task, and I believe retrofighters was one of them, when I've done tests on GameCube controllers and shown the gate in F zero GX. Part of building a community, and that's what I'm doing here by the way, is providing feedback to viewers and manufacturers. There have been issues that have been found during testing of videos that have been provided to manufacturers which they have utilized to go and improve their products. Again, Retro fighters is one of them where there was early feedback on the original brawler 64 and potential stick interference with the l trigger. I don't remember if it was the battler GC or the blade GC but one of them had issues that retro fighters took off of the market to go back and retool. There can also be differences in production runs. I've seen that in many manufacturing realms where a production sample turns out perfectly and then there's issues when the actual units for sale go into production. I didn't say that person didn't experience what he said he experienced. I simply said I did not experience that. We could both be correct. Again I invite you to check out the gameplay footage, any issues that I would have run into I would have called out in that. Different people also have different preferences for their controllers. I don't like the Xbox controllers, just not something that I have ever liked utilizing. Does that mean all Xbox controllers are bad? No, that just means that they're not good for me. Finally because it's apparent you just think I'm a shell that you probably didn't even expect a response from me. So the fact that I'm willing to take time out, explain things, not attack you (although I will admit that I got sarcastic in my initial response) and try to have a dialogue with you regarding my personal experiences I am hoping demonstrates my desire for transparency. Take it for what it is. You can believe me, you cannot. But like I say my integrity is worth much more than a $50 product sample.

[@DroidLocks6971]

I Be.Buying ps1 games all that time and play them on my.PS3 . LIKE RoadRash discworld 1 and 2 and blazing dragons to name a few

[@flrpitflrp1965]

I like the controller, but I’m not a big fan of the pressure sensitive buttons. It feels like im pushing through the controller on racing games. And your right, PS graphics have not aged well at all

[@DriftKingfromTekken3]

The PlayStation has aged fine, as long as you're using a crt.

[@RoXolid]

No, it really hasn't, and that's ok. Just like the N64 hasn't aged well

[@DriftKingfromTekken3]

@@RoXolid they look just fine on a curved crt. As they were intended to look

[@RoXolid]

No, they really don't, and it's ok. And I never want to own a CRT ever again

[@DriftKingfromTekken3]

@@RoXolid they do. I have multiple. But I understand not wanting to own them.im just saying, it's really hard to replicate their original look on modern displays, although the retrotink is very nice for line count

[@mariokart8715]

I don’t really like CRTs anymore either.

[@VideoGameXDomain]

The PS2 controller has aged terribly imo. It was great back then but now is very stiff and janky. I'm glad to see these new upgraded models with wireless support. Does this work for the PS4 and PS5 as well?

[@somer4773]

There's a BT edition than can be used for the ps3, ps4 and PC, and it comes with sixaxis

[@raverewind]

Wtf??, Buy a new PS2 controller and you will see why it was and is still Great and the best Controller. Why? I tell you, ABS Plastic, Sensive Bottons and that Silver sparkle in the Black Plastic.

[@Hey_Its_Thor]

Will you be doing a battery life test?

[@RoXolid]

Battery life was as good as advertised.

[@rasec202]

Getting 6 from kickstarter

[@RoXolid]

DAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNN

[@takehirolol5962]

Wow, that's a lot! For me importing one would cost 2 controllers!

[@RoXolid]

@@takehirolol5962 Check with CastlemaniaGames, he ships internationally

[@takehirolol5962]

@@RoXolid Yep, just ordered mine. I use a Freight Forwarder company and a US PayPal account. Many thanks!

[@RoXolid]

@@takehirolol5962 That's great to hear!!

[@stopthrm]

looking at this from the standpoint of using it for the PSX my thoughts are generally 3 different styles of controller for this system. The original PSX controller for the d-pad feel and functionality, a controller like this for dualshock and analog games with the analog stick intended, and some kind of fight stick for arcade games and fighting games (there are a TON). Considering this for analog titles, though many of the games that I currently play use tank controls and I usually find the d-pad to be a better fit. as an aside, when I bought my PSX it came with a really weird datel controller that had the ability to rock the d-pad around on a disk. Very interesting but I feel like its useful for FPS games or fighting games so I kept it :P

[@RoXolid]

That's cool!!

[@hnguyen500]

Seems like the weakest point of this controller is the D-Pad but this controller checks many boxes that I want. I still have my PS2, PS3 hooked up to my TV and play regularly, I don't have my PS1 anymore but have PS Classic, I also want a turbo function to play shmup and beat 'em up games, so this controller will be for my PS1, PS2, and PS3 gaming, I have my favorite controller for Switch but maybe this one can replace my Switch controller too! 🙂 It's available now on Amazon for $49.95, a bit pricier than other controllers but it's like 4-in-1 controller and better quality than most of them

[@RoXolid]

I will tell you, if you use the analog stick more than the d-pad you will be extremely happy with this. That's how I tend to play, even with games designed to use a d-pad.

[@zviedelman9015]

I remember hearing from various reviews that the D-Pad is actually pretty good, one even saying it was the best D-Pad he ever used. If it's the weakest point, this controller is real good. What do you think, Gary?

[@Eichward_SKV]

i think the right D-Pad for everyone is always hard to build. Everyone have other expection how a d-pad have to feal. In my opinion the original NES/SNES and MegaDrive/Saturn had the best D-Pads ever. Meaning every D-Pad that feels doesn´t like this, i consider as bad.

[@zviedelman9015]

@@Eichward_SKV "i think the right D-Pad for everyone is always hard to build" I agree. As I keep saying, nothing is for everyone. Russ from Retro Game Corps hates the Clicky Xbox D-pads, Bob Wulff from Wulff Den hates the DualShock 4 one, and Kaizo Mario players tend not to like 8bitdo ones. That said, why do you consider D-pads not styled like NES, SNES, MegaDrive, and Saturn bad? Some people might not like the stiffness of retro game pads, or they might just like the d-pads from, say, the Wii Remote or The Xbox One controllers. Variety is the spice of life, after all.

[@crazyface3985]

Love your video. Covers most everything I cared about so definitely getting... I just have one question. Maybe I missed it in the video but I was wondering if the pressure sensitive buttons work on the PS3 also? I play a lot of Metal Gear so it's important for me to know about that.

[@RoXolid]

It does

[@BoyStarPower]

What does PlayStation classic mean?

[@RoXolid]

The PlayStation Classic is the mini system similar to the NES Classic that Sony put out.

[@BoyStarPower]

@@RoXolid thanks!

[@RoXolid]

@@BoyStarPower You are most welcome

[@BoyStarPower]

@@RoXolid ♥️

[@SweetTeaKillah]

Did you have any problems hitting the R2, L2 with your fingers? I have large hands and its a problem for me.

[@RoXolid]

None for me

[@dillwiggle2]

I’ve found used controllers that are missing the usb dongle. So are these controllers basically useless without the dongle ?? Or can they somehow still be used on the ps3 or is there some sort of universal dongle out there as I’m thinking every brand of 3rd party controller has a different dongle specific to their controller ??

[@RoXolid]

Every controller needs their specific dongle

[@krystalshocked]

PS O-N-E, I've never heard anyone say it like that 🤔

[@RoXolid]

That's to different it from the original PS1 design. It's almost appropriate to call it the PlayStation Jr, similar to Nintendo with the SNES jr

[@MegaFinalRound]

He has to differentiate it from the PS1.

[@RoXolid]

@@MegaFinalRound correct

[@T0TALLYAWESOMEGUY]

Nice that it's wireless for PS1/2. Unfortunately the shape isn't authentic so it's not going to feel like you're playing a PS1 or PS2. Looks like a Nintendo Pro controller not a Sony Dual Shock. Oh well.

[@RoXolid]

It does but it doesn't. I would say it feels like the love child of the DualSense and Switch Pro Controller, but with the PlayStation's stick placement

[@supermanblue2274]

Does it have SIXAXIS functionality for the PS3?

[@Quaddouble_O]

So RoXolid I'm really looking forward to buying it, but I'm little scared about the controller have a some input lag on my ps2

[@RoXolid]

I don't have any tools to directly measure it but I would say that there was not lag noticeable enough to comment on. I didn't feel that there was any lag that I noticed but it doesn't mean that it wasn't there

[@gunhoe2002]

Can the buttons and stick be remapped

[@RoXolid]

Not on the controller itself.

[@opatapreta]

Hello. Did you tested the pressure buttons os ps3? It was so incredible to hit the gas on grand turismo on the button.

[@RoXolid]

I have, it works flawlessly!

[@soulsolis3096]

Already ordered mine, thank you for this review, now I really can't wait to have it! ❤️

[@RoXolid]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@jameshowlett4018]

It has pressure sensitive face buttons? Like... It Metal Gear 2 or 3 if you hold square and draw your weapon and slowwwly release your pressure... He'll lower it. Any test on that?

[@RoXolid]

It sure does!

[@jameshowlett4018]

@@RoXolid Wow... That's amazing. Sony doesn't even have or use that feature nowadays. I miss it!

[@mkpmacdonald]

So no analog sticks for PS1?

[@RoXolid]

Depends on the game, some support them, others do not

[@bluerunner556]

What about the pressure sensitivity? The gtas and mgs2/ 3 wouldn't work great without it

[@RoXolid]

It has pressure sensitive buttons

[@TheMoises1213]

Can I get a smaller one?🙄 why they keep making controllers so big

[@RoXolid]

Nope, this is it

[@kanggoo57]

because big controllers are insanely comfortable. ive hated using controllers from the ps1/ps2 era since theyre so small they keep giving me handcramps. i ordered this controller already!

[@baarrywilliams3606]

RR4 supports analogue dual shock 2 so you analouge should work

[@LifeWithMatthew]

Alright, I made it for the premier! Wait, where's the premier?

[@RoXolid]

No premiere, just live.

[@supergogeta941]

I want one of these for my ps1 I'm just worried that it won't work with my memory cards like other wireless controllers have. Have you had any issues with it not saving?

[@RoXolid]

No issues at all, why would a controller cause any issues with your saving? I've never experienced that

[@supergogeta941]

@@RoXolid I've had a few like the Logitech wireless controller prevent me from saving before on PS1 memory cards.

[@lashawnhampton]

Can u use any Logitech on a PlayStation 1

[@theamazingmikelee9857]

Where can I buy this in Australia?

[@RoXolid]

CastlemaniaGames.com ships internationally

[@theamazingmikelee9857]

@@RoXolid Thanks, but I already checked them out. Their shipping costs are off the chart. More than the cost of the controller itself.

[@LumbyMcGumby]

Sick

[@RoXolid]

I was, but I am feeling better now

[@LumbyMcGumby]

@@RoXolid LOL

[@ryanl4325]

Hi Gary, I have been waiting for this to come out before choosing a wireless ps2 controller. What do you think of this compared to a brooks adapter?

[@RoXolid]

The brick adapter is decent, I don't know that I notice any real responsiveness difference between the two. It's an interesting question, hadn't thought of it. This definitely cost more, but you get an entire dedicated controller. The brook adapter you have to pair and unpair to different devices with the same controller. So I think from a convenience standpoint I would go with this. Good question

[@ryanl4325]

@@RoXolid Thanks for the response Gary. I currently have a PS4 controllers so the Brook adapter would be the same price. I am strictly looking at input lag between the two, pairing controllers also does not bother me. I recently went wireless for my NES, SNES and Genesis via 8bitdo using my heavily modded 8bitdo stick. All that's left is my PS2 and potentially Wii using the GameCube controller, all other retro consoles do not get played much so I'm keeping them wired for now.

[@RoXolid]

There's not much of a difference either way really, so I would say if you like the PS5 controller, go with the brook, otherwise I love the Retro Fighters Defender.

[@Psmgamer]

Been wanting a replacement PS3 controller.

[@RoXolid]

This is an awesome option!

[@nielsvriethoff9476]

If I see what they wrote on their site. If you want a Controller with sixaxis functionality you should wait for the ps3 version of the defender.

[@RoXolid]

I've never found myself needing the motion controls on the PS3 personally.

[@nielsvriethoff9476]

@@RoXolid Yeah me neither, but if he wants one that can do anything that a dual shock 3 could do. (I only used sixaxis, zo will be strange to have rumble on ps3)

[@Alextec9]

literally bought all 4 colors while watching video lol def needed a reliable PS controller. and now that i can use it thru Bluetooth just makes things even more perfect!!

[@RoXolid]

This isn't bluetooth, it's 2.4GHz

[@Alextec9]

@@RoXolid ah dammit, I thought the grey dongle was a Bluetooth adapter 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@RoXolid]

@@Alextec9 No, all 2.4GHz

[@ianvincent5069]

All of retro fighters controllers look similar form factor wise I wish I could just buy one and they'd sell me a bunch of receivers so i could use it with everything

[@RoXolid]

They definitely have a design aestetic they stick to

[@bland9876]

@@RoXolid and the the GameCube controllers came out.

[@SagnolTheGangster]

Does it work with vibration on the PS3?

[@johnhill9909]

How do I fix the awful d pad

[@kiritowallace2plays]

Does it support sixaxis

[@RoXolid]

The current version does not, but they are working on a separate version which does

[@PaperBanjo64]

The triggers look like Nintendo Switch triggers.

[@jeffbrown4256]

Got mine today, do they have vibration or am I doing something wrong?

[@RoXolid]

They do but the game has to support it too

[@wybuchowyukomendant]

im using 8bitdo pro 2 on pretty much everything these days, super comfy for me

[@RoXolid]

I try to avoid them as much as I can. They have terrible communication and as such I try to support those who support the community

[@SquickWorks]

@wybuchowyukomendant I bought one and I want to love it, but the fact that it only works with the PS3 when wired killed it for me. And didn't work with PS2 games for me on my backwards compatible PS3. I do really like using it with my Dreamcast via Blueretro though.

[@nintendylan7449]

So I heard this controller does not have six axis functionality but will retrofighters release a model that does have it?

[@RoXolid]

That I don't know

[@supermarcusworld2819]

I don't think they will release a version wirh six axis - They are aimed for the PS1 games (and PS2- Games on the older models) on PS3

[@MrAlextisi]

@@supermarcusworld2819 On the Retro Fighters web site, it is stated that they will indeed make a six axis version, PS3 version only Defender. It will take some time to produce though.

[@KingNick96]

I can't pair mine to the switch can you show exactly how to do it

[@RoXolid]

Yes, I have a video coming that will address this. You're not the only one who has had issues.

[@bobbyblanco5351]

I can't use analog sticks on my classic damn! 😡

[@RoXolid]

That's due to the way Sony coded the PS Classic

[@bobbyblanco5351]

@@RoXolid tht pisses me 📴😠 I got 300+ games on it ...but it's still better then the cheap other ones

[@fspeshalxo69]

jailbreak it put, retroarch and enjoy it more

[@RoXolid]

@@fspeshalxo69 I have a video that shows how to not only do that, but convert your existing library to digital and load it onto the PS Mini Classic!

[@fspeshalxo69]

@@RoXolid i will go watch because i didn't jailbreak mine

[@MagisterHamid]

Any chance you can make a proper lag test on these?

[@RoXolid]

I don't have any equipment to test that sort of thing, sorry.

[@Fahrenheit38]

I love mine for ps1 and ps2 but cant seem to get it to sync to the switch no matter what I do

[@RoXolid]

Is the LED on solid or flashing? Try this: Plug the Dongle into the Switch Dock Once the LED starts flashing, press the Pairing button on the back of the controller It SHOULD pair from here. If it doesn't do this. From the HOME Menu, select "System Settings" → "Controllers and Sensors", then turn on "Pro Controller Wired Communication

[@Fahrenheit38]

@@RoXolid it was that wired communication mode setting, thanks!

[@RoXolid]

That has gotten many people over the years, glad I could help

[@SomeAngryGuy1997]

Uhhh, why do you call it O-N-E? It's 'One' as in the word 'One'.

[@RoXolid]

To spell out the difference in what specific system I am playing on. The PlayStation 1 and the PSOne are 2 different systems. Here's a link to the PSOne for reference: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PlayStation_models#PS_One

[@SomeAngryGuy1997]

@@RoXolid About as different as the PS2 from the PS2 Slim...

[@RoXolid]

Kinda, but we all call the original The PS1, so PSONE is a point of differentiation

[@lashawnhampton]

Can u use this controller on a ps one slim

[@RoXolid]

The PSone? Yes

[@benmcmanus4154]

Just got mine. Anyone else having trouble connecting theirs to their switch? I have the OLED model. I heard on the old Switch users can connect using the inner USB port on the Dock, but the OLED model doesn't have that.

[@RoXolid]

I have a video coming Monday on this but go into settings -> Controllers & Sensors -> Pro Controller Wired Communication -> Turn on.

[@RoXolid]

I show in this episode how to turn that wired communication on as well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2aziIuweaaCndU

[@Bird_Dog2099]

I have an OLED switch and am having this same issue. Thanks, I will try this out. Really hope it works!

[@RoXolid]

@@Bird_Dog2099 pretty much guarantee this will fix it

[@Bird_Dog2099]

It worked, thank you so much!!! I thought I'd gotten a janky controller.

[@MRWINDYMETHANE]

I feel stupid for asking this, but how do I get it to play on my PS3?

[@tougeruzbay]

use the usb dongle for it

[@RoXolid]

Exactly

[@MRWINDYMETHANE]

Oh, so THAT'S what the small grey brick thing is for...

[@RoXolid]

That's it

[@sonicplys64]

Any idea how it works on PC?

[@RoXolid]

I got to figure it's going to be pretty similar to what I showed here on the other systems, I just don't game on my PC. My laptop is strictly a video editing and production machine

[@nigelwestdickens6476]

Hey is this Controller working on the PS TV?

[@RoXolid]

I don't have one to test, sorry

[@TheViper4Life]

I ordered a Brawler64 and the Defender a couple weeks ago since they were on sale, and they finally arrived yesterday. The Brawler64 is incredible, far superior controller to the original 64 controller, it's a must have if you're into playing N64. The Defender is great too, but my biggest gripe with it, that you didn't mention here, is the L2 and R2 triggers are INSANELY sensitive. I played some Borderlands 1 on my PS3 to test it out, and I kept aiming down sights or firing my gun when I didn't mean to, because my fingers naturally rest right above the those buttons and it takes the most miniscule amount of pressure to set them off. I also play my PS1 games on my PS3, and playing some Tony Hawk 2, I'd bail out because again my finger would barely touch L2 or R2 and it'd make my skater turn when I didn't mean to. Other than that it's a great controller and a perfect alternative if you need a new controller, lord knows trying to find an authentic DS3 these days is next to impossible. But they just need to refine the triggers a bit...I think the issue is they just need a bit more tension and it'd be fine. Otherwise they work as intended and it'll be the controller I use for my PS2 going forward.

[@RoXolid]

I did not experience overly sensative L2 or R2 triggers, sorry.

[@jeffbrown4256]

My backwards compatible PS3 does not let me use these controllers for physical PS2 games on it. Is that not a feature or does it only work for digital PS2 games on PS3?

[@RoXolid]

Not sure, my PS3 played digital PS2 games without issue

[@jeffbrown4256]

@@RoXolid it plays digital just fine, but when I put in a ps2 disc it no longer works.

[@RoXolid]

Hmmm not sure. I haven't had a backwards compatible PS3 in a long time so I can't test it. Have you reached out to retrofighters?

[@jeffbrown4256]

@@RoXolid I have, but have had no reply from them unfortunately.

[@jvmauck]

@@jeffbrown4256 same here. I'm going to see if I plug the PS2 dongle into an adapter to USB, see if that works with disc PS2 games.

[@AugustusMcMillan]

didnt know youre into RC. i have a ton of rigs.

[@RoXolid]

Since 1992. I used to write for RC Car Action and RC Driver magazines and spent almost 15 years at Horizon Hobby.

[@AugustusMcMillan]

@@RoXolid awesome

[@RoXolid]

Thanks! I've posted a few RC videos on this channel, but they aren't the most popular

[@AugustusMcMillan]

@@RoXolid i'll search for them.

[@RoXolid]

Sounds good