BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller (PlayStation Edition), USB-C | For Android & iPhone 15/16/17, 2nd Gen, Play Xbox, Fortnite, Call of Duty, & More

The following critiques will be faily split between PS Remote Play testing results and the Backbone peripheral itself, which is an A+ highly recommended device for Playstation/Xbox players, and maybe the small (?) population of Steam users who aren't quite on board spending >$500 on the impeccable Steamdeck yet would like an occasional time away from the keyboard and mouse. It may not be a return to the days of the underrated Playstation Vita, but it's close enough. Pros - Controller is an almost 1:1 of the Switch joycons in terms of scale and layout (not ideal for big boy hands like mine) which took alot of adjusting to despite the brand's console-specific face buttons(ABCs for Xbox, XYOs for Playstation) and matching triggers to emulate the respected controller aesthetics. Analog sticks match the feel of the standard first party joycon so least it doesn't have a cheap click to it but time can only tell. - The Backbone app is very user-friendly and comfortable. More or less an imitation of the Gamepass and PS Network UIs put together but you can easily switch between Playstation, Gamepass, and Steam apps via the dedicated red home button on the right handed grip. Navigating is simple and the app offers an in-house directory for platform game streaming, F2P base games, and even social media features if you're into that sort of thing. Pretty cool stuff and although I'm only going to go straight to PS5 play or Steam Link, I appreciate the effort they put into making Backbone a serious companion to all platforms. - Concerning actual gameplay, latency is rock solid for most games sans a few exceptions, maybe a few milliseconds off. On remote play, I ran at 720p to maintain steady frame rate without harsh drops. It's been reported here and there that the Backbone SORT OF has a hand in making the remote experience as smooth as relatively possible compared to a non-Backbone method. Might be a theory but point is, had practically no major issues. Tested games such as GRID Legends, Returnal, Doom, NHL 22, Resident Evil 4 in addition to some older 3D games and turn-based RPGs which this is perfect for. - Compatibility with PS+, Gamepass, Steam Link, Google Play, annnnnd yes, the wide wide world of emulators. A tremendous positive it shares with the Steamdeck. Enough said. Minor Cons - Going back to the controller design, the thumbsticks could be a little larger because shooters will lead to some sore appendages for bigger hands like mine after maybe half an hour of constant playing. So this is purely subjective; I tried applying removable thumb attachments but they didn't fully fit and they fell off easily. - Touchpad optimization is non-existent for the controller for obvious reasons however a little back button could remedy this. Otherwise, given the wide length of the attachment plus phone it is a real chore holding the Backbone in one hand so you can press the middle of your smartphone's touchscreen with the other. Not a design or manufacturer flaw and I don't know if there's a solution for it either considering the way Sony implemented that in their own dedicated app (which Backbone mirrors via its own app). It is the only noticeable tangible problem though. - Lastly, from an exclusive streaming/remote play experience, the Backbone's peak of its potential completely hinges on your router distance and ISP plan. The farther away you are from the gateway, the more hangups you'll get not to mention stuttering pixelation quality. I read that using a smartphone's data and wi-fi still does plenty of heavy lifting to run decently unlike the stupid >$400 Playstation Portal which operates way worse on very specific hardware only on wi-fi. This is in no way influenced by the hardware whatsoever BUT be cautioned if you are purchasing the controller for entirely streaming. So to conclude, for what is an official Sony and Microsoft endorsed $60 (Black Friday sale) peripheral that is compatible with any USB-C smartphone and functions with the premier gaming services (plus Google Play emulators)...Backbone is not a bad investment at all to say the very least. Highly recommended, just make sure it's suitable to your gaming needs.

**BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller** for Android and iPhone 15 Series (USB-C) is a high-quality gaming accessory designed to enhance mobile gaming experiences. Here’s a detailed review of this controller: ### Design and Build The BACKBONE One features a sleek and ergonomic design that fits comfortably in the hands. It’s crafted from durable materials that offer a solid and premium feel. The controller is designed to be compatible with both Android and iPhone 15 Series devices via USB-C, making it versatile for various mobile gaming setups. ### Features - **Ergonomic Grip:** The controller’s shape and grip are designed for comfort during extended gaming sessions. The textured grips and well-placed buttons help reduce hand fatigue. - **Responsive Controls:** It features responsive analog sticks, a directional pad, and face buttons that provide precise control for gaming. The buttons have a tactile feel that enhances the gaming experience. - **Direct Connection:** The USB-C connection ensures a stable and low-latency connection to your device, which is crucial for a smooth gaming experience. - **Compatibility:** The controller is compatible with a wide range of games available on both Android and iOS platforms. It supports games that are designed for controller input, enhancing gameplay across various genres. ### Performance The BACKBONE One delivers reliable performance with its responsive controls and direct USB-C connection. It eliminates the input lag often associated with wireless controllers, providing a more seamless and immersive gaming experience. The analog sticks and buttons are precise, making it easier to perform complex in-game actions. ### Portability The controller’s compact design makes it easy to carry and use on the go. It can be connected and disconnected quickly, allowing for a portable gaming setup that fits in a bag or pocket. Its design also allows it to fold or adjust to fit various phone sizes, which is convenient for mobile gaming enthusiasts. ### Software Integration The BACKBONE One often comes with its own companion app, which provides additional features such as game library integration, recording, and sharing gameplay clips. This software enhances the overall gaming experience by offering extra functionalities and ease of use. ### Pros - **Comfortable Design:** Ergonomic grips and responsive buttons provide a comfortable and enjoyable gaming experience. - **Stable Connection:** The USB-C connection offers a stable and low-latency gaming experience, minimizing input lag. - **Versatile Compatibility:** Works with both Android and iPhone 15 Series devices, supporting a wide range of games. - **Portability:** Compact and easy to carry, making it convenient for gaming on the go. ### Cons - **Price Point:** The BACKBONE One might be more expensive compared to some other mobile gaming controllers, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. - **Device Compatibility:** While it supports a wide range of devices, it may not be compatible with older phones or those without a USB-C port. ### Conclusion The **BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller** for Android and iPhone 15 Series (USB-C) is a well-designed and high-performance accessory that enhances mobile gaming experiences. Its ergonomic design, responsive controls, and stable USB-C connection make it a valuable tool for serious mobile gamers. Although it comes at a higher price point, its features and performance justify the investment for those looking to elevate their mobile gaming experience.

Got this on a Cyber Monday sale, worked right out of the box with the iPhone 15 pro! Although it is nice, not sure if I would pay full price for it. It is able to be adapted to fit my phone with a non-bulky case. I use it with remote play for the PS5 and it’s been very convenient when the tv is being used by my wife and kids. Using it reminds me of when I still had a PS vita. The controls on the Backbone are small but it is more portable and convenient to use this than propping the phone and pairing a DualShock controller. Definitely works best on same network as the PS5. Build quality is decent plastic and feel it could last a while under normal use. Hope it lasts, and would recommend on a sale if you like remote play portability in your home. I have tried a couple AppStore games like Wreckfest and that seemed to work great, I wish the Mario Cart AppStore game worked with it though.

Potential buyers, please read: Usually I'm not one to post reviews, but it's kinda silly how the issue I ran into is a common one. TL;DR - New buyers, it would be safer to look into other brands since this common issue is unlikely to be addressed and resolved, and you'll either inevitably need a replacement, or you'll need to buy another if you're out of the return window. I tend to think of 1-star reviews as mostly the customer not knowing how to work the product, or using a product with an intensity beyond its limits, or just that they broke it on accident but are claiming it happened on its own. I saw it was highly rated, so there's no way it could be that bad. I've owned products with some bad reviews, but I never had the same issues the low ratings would state. But I guess this is a first for me. My issue was the left side stopped responding after about half a year of usage. I thought it was just the analog stick, but it was the Dpad also, and the L2 was registering as held down for some reason even though it wasn't being pressed. The right side worked completely fine. Looking up why the left analog wasn't working pointed me in the wrong direction, so when I found out the entire left wasn't working, looked it up, and apparently it's a known issue shared among buyers. The first 1-star review in the Amazon reviews section said it was the exact same issue. Others on Reddit have said they've ran into the same exact issue. The post I read was from 2 years ago. That's TWO WHOLE YEARS and it's still a persistent problem. 2 years and the best the company can do is give you a replacement. It's really discouraging to even hope for a resolution if the product is going to just break down after a few months. Regardless, this is eventually going to turn into $100 down the drain. The good news is that if I extend the backbone all the way, it works, but I need to prop it open with something. I'm happy that I can use it, I suppose, but it's unfortunate that a company would allow such a prevalent issue to persist for this long.

I've had two in two years. Both wore out the ribbon cable connecting the two sides after about a year each. Simple fix if you're okay taking the controller apart but annoying to deal with somewhat for something costing $99. I'd recommend the sellers do an update to the model to remedy the problem. Other than that they've always worked great in emulators. Simple connect and you're ready to go.

I’ve been looking at this thing for the last year contemplating if I should even get it because I have remote play just use my phone or tablet whatever I saw was on sale for like 70 bucks prime day, I have to say it’s very interesting It has better connection from what I see from the regular remote play and it gives you about three different kinds of perks month free Backbone service which gives you all free games from like Xbox and s Pc ( So having a PS five, this is pretty cool because I’ve never had something like this Or I can go and choose) But I have to say playing ghost of Tsushima -Mortal Kombat one devil may cry five- Resident evil 23 and four- it looks absolutely amazing Don’t get me wrong you’ll still have some lag here in there, but for the most part, it should be clean sailing when it comes to traveling and keeping up to date with ur PlayStation 5 along with all this stuff, this will hold me over until the next PlayStation Vida, which I heard a rumor may come out with PlayStation five Pro and will be able to be compatible with the pro and PlayStation six, so that should be really cool if it acts like the Wii (Nintendo ) That was so far I was thinking about getting the portal, ( I really wanted that to be the next Vita ) but a backbone is half the price and it’s not made cheap it feels good ( And if you have an iPhone 15 or an iPhone 15 Pro, you’re going to be playing at a better resolution than the PlayStation portal anyway. Only thing I would say that I dislike is the fact the two joysticks are not exactly lined up the way they are on a regular PlayStation -4/five remote - The haptic feedback is awesome. The fact you can take pictures of your game and record it and keep it on your phone instead of having to go into an app pretty cool. I would honestly say I’d give this a 4.6out of five. With my only dislikes being the analog sticks And if you’re playing certain fighting games, you better have a good connection PlayStation five with an Ethernet cable ( And try to get smaller than 25 feet long something to do with drop in speed ) when I’m at work when I’m on my break after I eat, I play for a half hour when I’m home. I’ll sit by the pool and play. It makes it a lot easier to enjoy and other good games through Backbone during the summer without missing anything, as easily as you shut it down turn it off you could fire it right back up. And continue where you left off So many PROs & very little Cons Hope this was helpful -future buyers

One of the best products I have ever bought. As long as you have time to slip your phone into the backbone, you then have a PlayStation, Xbox, and steam in the palm of your hand.

REALLY good controller for playing game on your phone. USB-C so keep that in mind. Pair this with Google Play Pass and were talking about endless fun!

I've been playing with this since I got it earlier today (mostly No Man's Sky on PS5), and I'm so glad I got this. Turns my S23 into a gaming experience anywhere, as long as my PS5 is on. I found no lag or stuttering, which of course is dependent on your mobile device. (Loved that COD natively picked up the controller with no pairing issues as previous versions of the game have had.) Very good fit in my (fairly small) hands, even more comfortable than a regular PS5 controller. Some flex in the spine of the device, as would be expected from the design. I played for about 4 hours straight, with no cramping. I bought this on Black Friday, but even at full price it's a worthy investment if you play on the go.

I was sceptical about purchasing this, but the 2nd gen version is just awesome. It fits my S23 Ultra perfectly fine without a case and it is incredibly easy to install. Okay, so not all games are supported but this is not Backbone's fault and you can custom the controls for some apps as well (redream, dolphin). For the games that allow controller support, it works great. I am having a blast playing Stardew Valley with it on Google Play and the Xbox cloud feature is a game changer. I just wish I had purchased one sooner. Don't expect all games to work with this, but you can play most games via Steam Link, Playstation Link, Xbox cloud Gaming, Xbox link and Play Store games. I am sure that over time, more games will be added. 100% recommend.

Il BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller per Android è un accessorio straordinario che ha completamente trasformato la mia esperienza di gioco sullo smartphone. Sin dal primo utilizzo, è evidente la qualità e l'attenzione ai dettagli che questo prodotto offre. Design e comfort: Il design è compatto e ben studiato, con materiali di alta qualità che offrono una sensazione premium al tatto. La configurazione ergonomica è perfetta per lunghe sessioni di gioco, senza affaticare le mani. Una volta collegato, il controller si integra perfettamente con il telefono, trasformandolo in una vera console portatile. Prestazioni e compatibilità: I comandi sono precisi e reattivi, con pulsanti ben disposti e stick analogici fluidi. Funziona alla perfezione con una vasta gamma di giochi compatibili, sia su piattaforme Android che su servizi di cloud gaming come Xbox Cloud Gaming. La connessione diretta assicura una latenza praticamente inesistente, rendendo l'esperienza di gioco fluida e senza interruzioni. Caratteristiche extra: L'app Backbone è una piacevole aggiunta: permette di accedere rapidamente ai giochi, registrare sessioni di gioco e condividerle facilmente. Anche la possibilità di caricare il telefono mentre si gioca è un grande vantaggio per sessioni prolungate. Conclusione: Il BACKBONE One è più di un semplice controller; è uno strumento che porta il gaming mobile a un livello superiore. È perfetto per chi desidera la comodità di una console portatile senza rinunciare alla qualità e alla performance. Come sempre, Amazon si distingue per la spedizione rapida e l’imballaggio impeccabile. Non potrei essere più soddisfatto!

Best

Great Controller no issues ect. But be aware since it has a small size (wich is positiv for me) the thumbsticks are small too.