Review: Street Fighter X Tekken Arcade FightStick Pro
Mad Catz have returned, this time bringing us a a new Arcade Stick for Street Fighter X Tekken. How does this new style of Arcade Stick compare to previous Street Fighter and Mad Catz FightSticks? Find out in this review.
Arcade Sticks are a big passion of mine as I feel they are the ultimate gaming accessory for fighting fanatics. I previously had the opportunity to review the SoulCalibur MadCatz FightStick, and over the past few months it has almost become my best friend, in the fighting world that is. Looking at both of the FightSticks you’ll notice that there are many differences. One of the main noticeable changes from the SoulCalibur stick is the size. The Mad Catz Street Fighter X Tekken Arcade FightStick Pro weighs exactly 5 lbs 6 oz, and the base measures 10″L x 15″W x 3″H, making transportation pretty straight forward. It’s also much smaller compared to the SoulCalibur stick, though it definitely doesn’t affect the performance, plus the added grip underneath the FightStick makes using it on your lap much easier.
Like previous models in the Mad Catz FightStick Pro series, its built quality is strong, efficient and also offers Turbo control functionality. The Arcade Stick provides a great advantage to players, utilising the simple layout to achieve faster and more responsive combos than using a regular controller. Another noticable design change is the amount of space players have in relation to the Joystick placement, meaning that it’s easy to rest your hands without feeling cramped, which I felt was an issue with the FightStick for Street Fighter IV:AE.
Just like the SoulCalibur and previous Mad Catz sticks, the button layout for the ‘Start’ and ‘Select’ buttons are located on the back of the base. It doesn’t sound like the most interesting feature, but the location of the buttons reduces the chance that you’ll accidentally hit them during a match. Another handy improvement, just like the SoulCalibur FightStick is that it includes a storage compartment which holds the 13′ USB cable when not in use.
One of the most important aspects of any FightStick is how responsive it feels, as any lag can seriously affect your chances when fighting professionally. This FightStick has no issues with fast paced action and combos, and there was no noticeable button lag during 8 hours of solid offline play. The overall design and functionality mean that this is the best peripheral to have for Strekken.
Overall 10/10 – Editors Choice Award
Mad Catz have managed to out-do themsevles this time around with the Strekken Pro Fight Stick. The Fightstick is possibly one of the best designed, compact and efficient FightSticks. The noticeable space and button placement is a advantage for any hardcore fighter or anyone interestd in taking fighting games more seriously. The Street Fighter X Tekken Arcade FightStick Pro is easily the best fight stick on the market, and is by far my favourite. Even though the stick doesn’t look as fancy as the SoulCalibur stick, it still offers a sturdy feel and doesn’t feel cheep. The Fighstick is a must have.