Mad Catz CTRLi Gamepad Review for iPhone and iPad

Since iOS 7, it is
possible, on iPhone and iPad, to play withgame controllers
compatible, this allows you to benefit from more adapted controls and
precise than the touch screen, without forgetting the comfort of no longer hiding the screen
with your fingers placed on the virtual buttons.

Arriving a few years ago now, we find several types of
iPhone and iPad gamepad from different manufacturers. Some integrate
directly the iPhone between the buttons, like the
Moga Ace Power tested hereor the
Powershell from Logitech tested there, others connect wirelessly and
borrow the appearance of a more classic controller, this is the case of the
SteelSeries
Stratusand theMad Catz C.T.R.L.i. It is the latter
in standard version (it also exists in micro) which we were able to test
recently.

The Mad Catz CTRLi is on sale here in standard size, while its
microphone variation is in
sale here.

The micro version is actually a simply smaller and lighter version
than the standard version tested here, but with the same number of buttons. All
two are certified “MFi” for “Made for iPhone”, a major point to ensure
compatibility with a maximum of games developed specifically to ensure
their support.

Discovery and first contact

Delivered in the box: the controller, two AAA batteries, a manual
in French and support for iPhone.

Before making any Bluetooth connection, you must first
download the companion app from the App Storeto install it on
the iOS device, iPhone or iPad.

This app allows you to update the internal software of the controller,
check that the buttons are working correctly and the remaining charge. A third
tab displays thegames officially compatible with the
handcuffs, with classification by genre.

To link the controller to the iPhone, nothing could be simpler, just press the button
central for a few seconds to complete the pairing procedure
Classic Bluetooth. Once in-game, the controller is automatically detected
(if the game is compatible).

The controller has 4 buttons on the right side, a joystick for
left thumb and a joystick for the right thumb above a cross
directional. on the rear, 4 triggers are accessible. A pause button
under the Bluetooth pairing button allows you to pause the
jeux.

Please note that the controller only works in games and within
of applications, not in iOS when navigating between apps for example.

The controller, entirely made of plastic, fits well in the hand. The joysticks are
solid and fluid. We note a little bad point for the quality of the buttons
and the directional cross, as well as the two most prominent triggers
rear: we saw better in terms of quality and click sensation on
console controllers.

Compared to its competitors mentioned in the introduction and tested by
iPhon.fr, the CTRLi has the particularity of offeringa fixing for
maintain iPhone. This attaches to the back using a screw. This
simple little accessory proves very practical, especially for playing
mobility; This advantageously replaces a support for the iPhone or even avoids
having to find a table to put it on. This is particularly relevant in
a car on public transport.

The set allows you to transform the iPhone into a mobile game console with a
landscape orientation. The fixing jaw holds well and opens sufficiently
to slide inan iPhone 6 plus with protective case.
Last positive aspect concerning the fixation: the angle of inclination of
the iPhone in this support is well calculated. Fortunately, because it is not
modifiable.

And now, time for the games!

Use and ergonomics

The controller has been tested with games like
Crypt of the NecroDancer, but alsoReckless 3et

Bastion. No problem recognizing it and we quickly realize
that it is a real pleasure to play these games on the controller, it offers them a
very different magnitude, compared to using the touch screen.

Unfortunately, the buttons and directional pads, even if they do
their work correctly, do not leave a feeling of high quality.
Moreover, this can influence the precision when pressing during
part. It sometimes happens to carry out a false manipulation (error
support or direction) due to lack of physical precision of the controls.

The joysticks on the other hand and the two triggers on top are perfect for
level of sensations. Note that during our tests, the joysticks react
like the directional cross: not possible to run faster or slower
for example, by tilting the joystick more or less quickly. But
this may have more to do with the type of game itself and its management.

Overall, the controller appeared satisfactory in terms of sensations,
enough to forget these little flaws, once in the middle of the game.

Note: it is normally compatible with the Apple TV, but this
was not verified during this test.

Conclusion

In the end, the Mad Cats CTRLi fulfills its contract, namely, to offer a
new video game experience on iPhone or even iPad. It allows to
rediscover titles, particularly classics that lend themselves well to it and
make the most of it. The wireless connection passes through a power supply using
batteries, some competitors include a battery, but they do not have
no attachment for the iPhone.

Its lightness (300 grams) and its removable iPhone holder make it a
essential for mobility (subject to providing spare batteries!). We
will however regret a rather average manufacturing quality, with
buttons of somewhat disappointing quality, made up for by joysticks and
triggers at the top of sensations.

The standard size appeared perfectly suited to large hands, without
however be too large. We would therefore rather advise
turn towards this size. The micro size seems designed for small
hands (maybe even for children) or for those who wish to travel
light, but we didn't have the opportunity to test it.

To conclude, this controller has positive aspects but we remain
nevertheless a little hungry in terms of quality of support. When deciding
for a controller model, it will therefore be necessary to choose between the presence of the
support (a real plus) and what the competition offers with battery
rechargeable.

Whatever the model, this type of controller offers real comfort for
“mobile gamers” who want to go to the end of games without suffering the limits
touch control.