Okay, way cool. Not sure if I’m gonna like this but I think I may need a new phone. My Galaxy S2 is dying a slow death. The new Samsung Galaxy S4 was announced yesterday and will include a cool new game controller. Though I think it looks a lot like my xBox controller, this will allow for me to play some games without needing to use my phone on-screen controls.
The Samsung Galaxy S4 Game Controller (officially called the Samsung GamePad) is a Bluetooth accessory designed to enhance the gaming experience on Samsung Galaxy devices, including the Galaxy S4, by providing a more console-like control scheme for mobile games. It was introduced in 2013 alongside the Galaxy S4 as part of Samsung’s push to position its flagship smartphones as multimedia powerhouses.
Here’s an overview of the Samsung Galaxy S4 Game Controller:
Design and Build
The GamePad is compact, lightweight, and designed to resemble a traditional console controller. Key design features include:
1. Physical Buttons: It features a standard controller layout with:
• Two analog sticks.
• A D-pad.
• Four action buttons (A, B, X, Y).
• Shoulder buttons (L1, R1).
• Start and Select buttons.
• A Play button to quickly launch Samsung’s gaming app hub.
2. Adjustable Phone Mount: The controller included a retractable clamp at the top to securely hold Galaxy smartphones with screens ranging from 4 to 6.3 inches. This made it compatible with not only the Galaxy S4 but also other Samsung devices like the Galaxy Note series.
3. Ergonomics: Its compact size and rounded edges make it comfortable to hold during extended gaming sessions.
Connectivity
• Bluetooth: The GamePad connects wirelessly via Bluetooth 3.0, allowing it to work with Samsung smartphones and tablets.
• NFC Pairing: For NFC-enabled devices, pairing is made even easier by tapping the phone to the GamePad to establish a connection.
Gaming Features
1. Play Store and Samsung Hub Integration: The controller supports games downloaded from the Google Play Store or Samsung’s proprietary Game Hub app. The Play button on the GamePad provides quick access to compatible games.
2. Console-Like Controls: It brings console-style controls to mobile gaming, making it ideal for genres like racing, platformers, and first-person shooters, where touch controls can feel limiting.
3. Multiplayer and TV Connectivity: Paired with Samsung’s AllShare technology or an HDMI adapter, the GamePad allowed users to play games on a larger TV screen, providing a more console-like experience.
The Samsung Galaxy S4 Game Controller was a decent accessory for its time, offering a more immersive gaming experience for Galaxy users. While its limited compatibility and modest build quality held it back, it remains a noteworthy step in the evolution of mobile gaming accessories.
Score: 7/10
A solid accessory for casual gamers, but niche in appeal and overshadowed by more versatile third-party options.