Nyko PlayPad Pro 2 hands-on

Nyko's PlayPad Pro controllers make gaming on Android much less painful, as anyone who has attempted to control a high-speed Sonic with a touchscreen can attest. So, how does the company follow up a largely successful peripheral that already performs its appointed tasks with aplomb? By changing very little, it appears. The PlayPad Pro 2 has a slightly sleeker and more aggressive design than its predecessor, but at a glance it may be hard to tell the two apart. The most distintive change is the addition of fins along the sides that should help keep your hands from getting too sweaty during extended button-mashing sessions. The biggest change, though, is to the analog sticks, which Nyko has upgraded with components from Alps that feel just about as good as what you'd find on a first-party controller from one of the big three console makers. Switching between HID, mouse, iCade and app modes is also incredibly easy thanks to the switch underneath.

The rubberized grips and soft-touch coating also ooze style in a way that many mobile gaming controllers can't even dream of matching. Impressively, the gamepad is quite well balanced, despite being incredibly light. Though we don't have an official weight, it's certainly no heavier than the original. Our lone complaint is that the directional pad feels a bit stiff, but there's always a chance for Nyko to rectify the situation since we were only handling prototype hardware. The PlayPad Pro 2 will be out later this year for $40. Make sure you check out the gallery below and the PR after the break.%Gallery-191143%

Show full PR text

Nyko Technologies unveils two new PlayPads at E3 2013

LOS ANGELES – June 11th, 2013 –Nyko Technologies®, the premier gaming peripherals manufacturer, is unveiling two new iterations of the PlayPad for Android™ at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3). A stalwart exhibitor at the game industry's headline event, Nyko is proud to unveil the PlayPad Pro 2 and PlayPad Media demoed with brand new games from various developers.

"We are excited to be showcasing two new PlayPad concepts that were designed after listening to consumer feedback," said Chris Arbogast, director of marketing, Nyko Technologies. "We'll be showcasing these new controllers with brand new and unreleased games from a great list of partners who are embracing PlayPad and the HID Android protocol."

Nyko's E3 2013 PlayPad hardware line-up for Android includes:

The PlayPad Pro 2™ is a brand new ergonomic design featuring Alps™ analog stick components. The new analog sticks provide console quality precision and feel making the PlayPad Pro 2 the most accurate mobile gaming controller today. The all new ergonomic shape is made for maximum comfort featuring Nyko's Soft Feel Surface finish as well as rubberized grips for a secure and enjoyable hold.

The PlayPad Media™ is an update to the existing PlayPad Pro adding a row of media playback controls to the controller. These playback controls can easily be used to play, pause, fast forward movies, music, video and more on your Android device. Users can also easily adjust the volume of their device directly from the PlayPad Media.

The PlayPad Pro 2 and PlayPad Media are concept products being considering for Q4 release based on retailer and consumer demand.
The new PlayPads will be fully playable and demoed on titles from Nyko's development partners including:

Dub Wars by Mura Interactive™: This new spin on the twin stick shooter will be releasing later this year on Android as a timed exclusive for PlayPad users. Dub Wars has you shoot a wide array of enemies to the beats of today's latest Dubstep tracks. Each level features new weapons designed in conjunction with the music, making each time the bass drops a new experience. For a limited time only, the first 50 backers who pledge $75 to Dub Wars on Kickstarter (Link) will also receive a free Nyko PlayPad Pro. Dub Wars is due out in later 2013 and will be fully compatible with the Nyko PlayPad line of controllers.
"MURA is excited to announce our partnership with Nyko Technologies." said Joe Albrethsen, Creative Architect, MURA Interactive. "The smooth analog response of the PlayPad Pro is the perfect way to enhance your DubWars experience."

Forsaken Planet by Loot™ Interactive: "Forsaken Planet" is a fast-paced, character-based, 3rd person view, action with strategy game, that features both a single-player storyline campaign and cross-platform multiplayer mayhem. Users will grab "Chikin," battle other employees, upgrade their hats, ships, weapons and armor all in a quest to become Employee of the Month. Nyko and Loot will also be partnering on special tournaments and contests providing PlayPads and other Nyko prizing to Forsaken Planet's most skilled players throughout the year. Swing by the Nyko booth and play Forsaken Planet to receive limited edition Forsaken Planet hats, and free in game items. Forsaken Planet is due out later this year and is fully PlayPad compatible.

Sonic the Hedgehog™ by SEGA® of America: The Sonic game which started it all is now optimized for the PlayPad. Race at lightning speeds across seven classic zones as Sonic the Hedgehog. Run and spin through loop-de-loops as you collect rings and defeat enemies on your mission to save the world from the evil Dr. Eggman. Nyko has paired with Sega to giveaway Limited edition Sonic buttons away to lucky winners at the Nyko booth. Sonic the Hedgehog is out now on Android and fully compatible with Nyko PlayPad controllers.

Riptide GP™ 2 by Vector Unit™: Riptide GP 2 is the full-featured sequel to one of the most successful racing franchises on mobile. Featuring rocket-powered hydro jets racing around futuristic tracks across a dynamic and interactive water surface, Riptide GP2 delivers a fast, fun, and visually stunning racing experience. Riptide GP 2 will be releasing this summer on Android and is fully PlayPad compatible.
Wind-up Knight by Robot Invader: Wind-up Knight is a high-end, action-packed, 3D side-scrolling adventure game, and it's here to show you how games are supposed to be played. Guide your Wind-up Knight through devilish levels--over 50 in all--to rescue the Princess from the clutches of the evil Black Knight. Run, jump, roll, and slash your way to victory. Not your typical runner game, Wind-up Knight is the type of challenging game you've been missing in your life. Wind-up Knight is out now on Android and is now PlayPad compatible.

All of these products will be on display and fully playable at Nyko's E3 booth located in the LA Convention Center, West Hall, #5000.

About Nyko Technologies, Inc. Nyko Technologies® develops, manufactures and markets innovative peripherals to enhance the digital lifestyle. The company's mission is to deliver products that solve problems and improve user experience for work and play. Nyko specializes in interactive entertainment, computing, consumer electronics, portable audio, as well as online and wireless technologies. The company has distribution through major U.S. and Canadian retailers, along with distributors worldwide. Founded in 1996, Nyko is headquartered in Los Angeles, Calif. Please visit www.nyko.com or call 1-888-444-6956 for more information.

Official Website | Facebook | @NykoTech

About Mura Interactive
MURA interactive llc (pronounced "myer-uh") is a privately held video game production company based in Provo, UT. Founded in January 2013, MURA is rapidly gaining the attention of industry leaders and the gaming community. Consumer feedback is integrated immediately to help secure the right balance of innovation and familiarity. Find out more about MURA at murainteractive.com. Games that make you wonder.