TNL 3.0 - Site SelectVideogamesMax AnimeForums

The Next Level - Features


MainNewsReviewsPreviewsFeaturesContactsLink to UsStaff



Feature Review: X-Arcade 8/26/02
TNL goes "hands-on" with the newest arcade accessory designed for the bona fide gamer.

To acknowledge X-Gaming's newest arcade controller as "highly anticipated" would be an understatement. While consoles and PCs advanced on an exponential level, the base controller seemed to be lagging behind in the evolution cycle. Enter the release of the X-Arcade, the first video game accessory that redefines the proverbial term - arcade experience.

Since its debut, the X-Arcade has been proclaimed as the ultimate arcade controller for all your gaming needs. Featuring a robust design, the X-Arcade is constructed from commercial wood and authentic arcade parts, virtually recreating the feeling that you've only come to expect from the arcade (sans the quarter plunking and noise). The base of unit features anti-skid feet, a godsend for avid fighting enthusiasts who generally make a lot of movement during competitive play. In addition, the unit is fully programmable and supports a broad range of existing game platforms. The list includes Dreamcast, Gamecube, PlayStation2, PS One, N64, and Xbox. Even PC and Mac users can benefit from the X-Arcade - without the concern of configuration drivers. The X-Arcade comes packaged with a PC "X-Adapter", console adapters can be purchased separately.


"I may look like an ordinary joystick, but I do so much more..."

I'll save you the mundane details highlighting my experience taking it out the box, and get right to the point in stating what's truly impressive about the X-Arcade. For starters, it's easily one of the best designs I've ever come across (yes, that even includes the legendary MAS stick, which I find to be rather aesthetically ugly). Compared to the MAS, the X-Arcade is considerably lighter (weighing approximately 10 lbs.) The X-Arcade can be likened to a miniature top-box arcade unit, featuring two joysticks which can be enjoyed for single or competitive play. Unfortunately, despite its dimensions (24.25" x 11.25" x 7" for those who are curious), the X-Arcade isn't ideally suited for two players at once. It becomes more like a contest of comfort, which becomes your primary concern as opposed to defeating your opponent. (Note: X-Gaming is currently working on a one-player unit, which should be considerably well-received upon its release). Personally, I just place the entire stick on my lap, and I hardly find it be an inconvenience. Beyond this minor quip, you won't find a more authentic arcade controller than this.

The X-Arcade features 20 concave arcade-style buttons, 6 of which reflect the conventional Street Fighter 2 layout. The button placement takes some adjustment (especially if you're using the stick exclusively for fighting games. Button mashers who are accustomed to escaping Magneto's Magnetic Tempest would be especially cautious). Speaking of which, the X-Arcade offers players two control settings - 4-Way for classic "old-school" arcade titles and 8-Way for fighting games. By default, the unit is configured to the 8-Way control setting, but can be configured to the 4-Way control, allowing you to play arcade classics like Pac Man or Robotron 2084 (which by the way works great using the dual joystick set-up). To acheive that "old school" feeling, simply remove the small "C-clip" on the bottom of the stick, and flip the plastic round piece under it to 4-way mode, thus giving you an authentic 4-way control. Mapping buttons and configuration is handled in the same manner as a standard keyboard. Some games will require slight adjustment, given the fact that 2D titles such as Dig Dug and Pac Man do not facilitate diagonal movement. Users can remedy this by opening up the unit and making modifications to the micro-switches, moving the arms away from the joystick, thus creating a less sensitive control.

Modifications for fighting games require a similar modification, only that you'll be moving the arms toward the joystick (recommended distance is 1/8 inch), in order to establish a more sensitive controller. Another alternative as highlighted above is to remove the "C-clip" and adjust it so that you can acehive the 8-way mode. This aspect is key, especially for purists who commonly play fighting games like Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo, and Capcom vs. SNK 2. In case you're wondering - yes, the sticks do have that "clicky" sound. *awaits series of groaning* In my opinion, it's nowhere nearly as annoying like that of the ASCII stick (the DC joystick with green buttons, ick!). Although they're not quite like the 360 sticks in the arcade, I had no difficulty pulling off combos, even in its default setting.

Though after all the modifications, perhaps you're still not satisfied. Fortunately, should the X-Arcade not measure up to your standards, the unit can be customized with arcade parts of your choice. Which brings up the area of the point regarding its engineering. Without a doubt, the X-Arcade presents the cleanest level of craftsmanship to date. Players who've dealt with a MAS stick can relate that any modifications or repairs is incredibly time consuming. It's a daunting task to say the least. Not so with the X-Arcade, the cables are neatly placed inside the stick; cables are clipped to the microswitches/buttons, so it's relatively easy to make changes to any of the components.

Without a doubt, the respective modifications greatly enhances the overall performance, giving you a tighter, authentic arcade feeling. Moreover, even the buttons offer players flexibility, according to personal preference. The procedure is relatively simple compared to the joystick modification, albeit a more time-consuming process. To briefly outline the steps, users can alternate the diameter of the spring - increasing/decreasing its size depending on the degree of responsiveness you desire. From a technical perspective, players should note that although the X-Arcade looks and performs like an arcade-style joystick, it's actually a keyboard (purists might choose to debate this, but the developers state such, so there.)

PC and Mac users can also make modifications by programming the stick and setting up macros for games which require specific keyboard strokes. Some configurations will take longer than others, so it's definitely recommended that you read the manual before playing. This will ensure that you'll get the best results out of the joystick before you begin proclaiming how you've been robbed (or something). Plus, the X-Arcade fully supports emulation software (hello MAME!), giving players a whole new dimension in retro-gaming. The process is rather seamless, enabled by toggling the default setting (Mode 1) to HOTROD SE or X-Arcade 2 (for use with MAME, it must be left on Mode 1). One of the benefits to using the X-Arcade is that players can still use their keyboard in conjunction with the controller unit. A keyboard adapter is provided to connect with a standard keyboard plug (a USB adapter can be purchased separately).

While the X-Arcade offers a broad range of compatibility among existing platforms, it should be noted that the unit only offers a left analog stick. Most first-person shooters make use of the right analog stick, designated for moving the camera angle. In short, your playability options is greatly limited. Furthermore, the buttons don't incorporate the Dual Shock technology, thus you variable sensitivity and acceleration as respectively featured in Wipeout Fusion and Gran Turismo 2.

Some consumers will remain skeptical or hesistant to invest due to the pricey tag which the unit carries (kits vary from $149 to $179). Though when you factor in its extensive list of features, a one-year warranty, and an open-platform for customer suggestions, it becomes clear that X-Gaming projects a solid commitment to its product. Plus, unlike the usual lifespan of consoles, the X-Arcade won't become obscure and fade into the times, thanks to its unique cross-platform versatility (bless PCB technoglogy). Clearly, the X-Arcade is a benchmark for the home entertainment market, one which will remain a viable platform for the past, present and future generations of gaming.

Pros:

+ Easy to set up, program and customize. Works with every existing platform.
+ Durable, professional design.
+ Virtually compatible with every game genre.
+ Solid committment supported by LIFETIME warranty and open platform for customer feedback.

Cons:

- Somewhat expensive ($150 a pop, ouch!)
- Lacks ideal width for 2-player use.
- Marginally awkward button placement (at least for Vs. style players.)
- Lacks dual-analog setup for first-person shooters and PS2-style analog buttons
(ok, this is being rather critical, we can't have everything.)

Related Links

http://www.x-arcade.com
http://www.x-gaming.com
http://www.x-arcade.com/discuss (For customer sugestions and last-minute add-ons)

 

 

  © 2002 The Next Level