TMCnet News
UP YOUR GAME: TOP PC PERIPHERALS(Observer (UK) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Mad Catz S.T.R.I.K.E. Tournament Edition Keyboard RRP: pounds 99.99; Available: 30 September Mad Catz has been targeting the competitive gaming scene for a while now, and the S.T.R.I.K.E. T.E. is perhaps the pinnacle of its efforts. A sturdy beast of a keyboard that won't slip even under fast-paced, intense play, it boasts fully mechanical keys for precision input, 12 programmable for instant commands, and switchable profiles for different uses. All keys are backlit, with adjustable intensity, and it comes pre-loaded with profiles for popular online games such as World of Warcraft. A joy to use. Razer Orbweaver Gaming Keypad RRP: pounds 124.99; Available: now This add-on has 20 programmable keys and an eight-way thumbstick. Designed to sit under your left hand and adjustable for comfort, it perfectly complements a mouse in your right. It's perfect for MMOs such as Guild Wars 2, allowing use of numerous skills, and just as good for FPS titles. While it will take some getting used to if you're more familiar with a full keyboard, it's a great alternative for the high-end gamer. Logitech G602 Wireless Gaming Mouse RRP: pounds 69.99 Available: now Precision counts, and with a 2,500dpi sensor, this feels remarkably accurate. While gaming mice are often corded to reduce lag, there were no latency issues - the lack of cable instead felt liberating, and the USB receiver comes with an extender so it can sit behind your monitor. A switch flips the G602 between performance mode, with 250+ hours of battery life, and endurance, claiming 1,440 hours' use. It also offers 11 programmable buttons. Saitek Pro Flight X-55 Rhino H.O.T.A.S RRP: pounds 169.99; Available: now Flight sims don't have the same cachet they once did, but for enthusiasts, a high-end flight stick can drastically improve the experience. The Rhino H.O.T.A.S. (hands-on throttle and stick) is "inspired by controls found within actual fighter planes" and comes with four springs to adjust the stick's responsiveness. The twin throttle is perfect for virtual twin engine jets, and is comfortable in your grip. Toggles and flick-switches can be customised for most in-game planes or 'copters. Creative Sound Blaster Roar RRP: pounds 129.99; Available: now Unless you have a large space for PC gaming, chances are audio takes a back seat. The Roar is a great alternative to a surround sound system, the deceptively small unit delivering crystal clear audio, thumping bass, and even virtual surround. Even better, it also uses Bluetooth, so it can be remotely paired with a laptop or mobile devices. It provides eight hours' play per charge, and when plugged in has an audio boost feature. Matt Kamen (c) 2014 Guardian Newspapers Limited. |