Kickstarter: GameSir X2 BT Version

Mobile gaming has always held a special place in my heart. From the days of playing "Tetris" on my Game Boy to exploring expansive worlds on my N64 and PlayStation, gaming on the go has evolved tremendously. Recently, I got my hands on the GameSir X2 Bluetooth version, which I backed on Kickstarter, and I decided to put it through its paces with one of the most demanding mobile games out there: Genshin Impact. Here’s my personal take on this nifty controller.

First Impressions

When I unboxed the GameSir X2, I was immediately struck by its sleek design and solid build quality. The controller feels sturdy yet lightweight, making it perfect for long gaming sessions. Is it plastic? Yes, but one of the better ones I know. Setting it up with my smartphone was a breeze, thanks to the user-friendly Bluetooth connectivity. Within minutes, I was ready to dive into the magical world of Teyvat.

Main Features and Performance

The GameSir X2 boasts several impressive features that enhance the mobile gaming experience:

• Comfortable Ergonomics: The controller fits snugly in my hands, and the textured grips ensure it doesn't slip, even during intense battles.
• Responsive Buttons and Analog Sticks: The buttons are tactile and responsive, providing a satisfying click with each press. The analog sticks are smooth and precise, which is crucial for a game like Genshin Impact that requires accurate movement and aiming.
• Adjustable Phone Holder: The expandable phone holder can accommodate devices up to 173mm in length, which easily fit my phone. Plus, the soft rubber backing prevents any scratches on my device.

Genshin Impact Experience

Playing Genshin Impact with the GameSir X2 was a game-changer (pun intended). Here's a breakdown of what I liked and what I didn't:

What I Liked:

• Enhanced Controls: The controller provided a significant improvement over touchscreen controls. The physical buttons and sticks made character movement, combat, and exploration much more intuitive and enjoyable.
• Battery Life: The GameSir X2 offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 20 hours on a single charge. This meant I could embark on long adventures without worrying about the controller dying in the middle of a quest.
• Latency: I was pleasantly surprised by the minimal input latency. The Bluetooth connection was stable and responsive, ensuring smooth gameplay.

What I Didn’t Like:

• Button Mapping Issues: Initially, I encountered some issues with button mapping in Genshin Impact. It took a bit of tweaking in the settings to get everything working perfectly, which might be a hassle for less tech-savvy users.
• Bulkiness: While the controller is generally comfortable, it does add some bulk to the setup. This makes it less portable compared to just using the phone, though it’s a trade-off I’m willing to make for the enhanced experience.
• Price Point: The GameSir X2 is priced higher than some other mobile controllers on the market. While I believe it’s worth the investment for serious gamers, casual players might find the cost a bit steep.
• Occasional Connectivity Drops: During extended sessions, I experienced a few instances where the Bluetooth connection dropped unexpectedly. Reconnecting was simple, but it disrupted the flow of gameplay and could be frustrating during crucial moments.
• Connection Mode Switching: The GameSir X2 supports multiple connection modes (Bluetooth, USB-C, and XInput), but I had some issues switching between them. Sometimes, the controller wouldn’t recognize the new mode without a restart, which was a bit annoying.

Must-Try Games with GameSir X2

Beyond Genshin Impact, I tested the GameSir X2 with a few other games and found it excelled in several genres:

• Racing Games: Titles like Asphalt 9 felt incredibly immersive with the precise analog controls.
• Platformers: Games such as Dead Cells and Stardew Valley were a joy to play, thanks to the responsive buttons and comfortable design.
• FPS Games: Call of Duty Mobile and PUBG Mobile also benefited from the controller, offering superior aim and movement precision compared to touchscreen controls.

Community and Environment

The mobile gaming community has embraced devices like the GameSir X2 with open arms. On forums and social media, fellow gamers shared tips and tricks for optimizing the controller’s performance with various games. It’s heartening to see a dedicated group of enthusiasts pushing the boundaries of what mobile gaming can achieve.

Conclusion

The GameSir X2 Bluetooth version has transformed my mobile gaming experience, particularly with games like Genshin Impact. While it has its quirks, the overall benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The enhanced controls, impressive battery life, and ergonomic design make it a worthy companion for any serious mobile gamer. However, the occasional connectivity drops, initial setup challenges, and issues with switching connection modes might be a turn-off for some. If you’re looking to elevate your gaming on the go and can overlook these minor issues, the GameSir X2 is definitely worth considering. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some more Teyvat to explore!