I Switched to a Leverless Controller-Here’s Why You Should Too
▼ Summary
– The Razer Kitsune is a leverless, all-button fighting game controller currently on sale for $209.99 (down from $299.99) at Amazon.
– The author praises the leverless design as a game-changer, especially after finding traditional controllers and fight sticks problematic for fighting games.
– Key features of the Kitsune include optical switches for low latency, a thin/lightweight build, SOCD cleaning modes, and cable/button lock functions.
– A significant drawback is the controller’s lack of native PlayStation 4 compatibility, requiring an additional adapter for use with that console.
– Despite the PS4 oversight, the author recommends the discounted Kitsune as a top-tier option for players committed to a leverless controller.
For fighting game enthusiasts seeking a competitive edge, the transition to a leverless controller can feel like unlocking a new level of precision. These all-button layouts replace traditional joysticks with directional keys, offering faster and more consistent movement inputs that are crucial for high-level play. The Razer Kitsune represents a premium option in this category, currently available at a significant discount, making it an attractive proposition for players ready to commit to this style of controller.
My own journey with fighting games involved a long line of standard gamepads, from the Xbox 360 controller to various PlayStation models. The DualSense controller, in particular, proved problematic due to its imprecise d-pad, which is a nightmare when you need to execute rapid directional commands. As someone who often sports long nails, I also found myself constantly hitting the wrong inputs on these traditional pads. I experimented with arcade sticks but never fully adapted to the large joystick lever. Earlier this year, I finally decided to try a leverless controller, and the difference was immediate and profound.
I’ve been using a borrowed, mid-range model, but the recent price drop on the Razer Kitsune has given me the perfect reason to invest in my own. This sleek device is now 30% off on Amazon in the United States, dropping from $300 to $210. For players in the United Kingdom, the discount is even steeper at 43%, bringing the price down to £170. While the cost isn’t trivial for someone new to leverless gaming, it’s an excellent deal for a high-quality piece of equipment you plan to use extensively.
The Kitsune features a compact 12-button layout with highly responsive optical switches, which Razer claims delivers minimal input latency. The entire unit is remarkably thin and light, making it far more portable than a bulky arcade stick for tournaments or local gaming sessions. It also includes several thoughtful features for competitive play, such as four SOCD cleaning modes, which are often required for tournament legality. There are also physical lock switches to prevent accidentally pressing menu buttons or dislodging the USB-C cable during a tense match.
One notable drawback is the lack of native PlayStation 4 compatibility, which is a surprising omission for a controller that excels in nearly every other area. Players needing PS4 support would have to purchase a separate adapter, like a Brook Wingman converter. Despite this single oversight, the Kitsune’s performance and build quality are exceptional. The switch to a leverless layout has genuinely improved my execution and consistency, making complex combos feel more accessible and reliable.
(Source: PC Gamer)
