October 9th, 2012 by Steve Perry
A couple months back, we had the chance to take a look at a cool new product from the folks at KontrolFreek called the FPS Freek CQC Signature Edition, a new part of a line of controller accessories that enhance the analog joysticks to improve control in a wide range of games. This time, we’re taking a look at two of the latest releases, the INFINITY and the HAVOC.
I know what you’re probably thinking. These don’t look vastly different from the CQC Signature, and you may be right. Fact is, they’re both part of the same line, the FPS Freek line. This means they’re tailored to FPS games, so they won’t be as vastly different as some of the KontrolFreek accessories in the sports lines, for example. However, that isn’t to say that they’re the same. A few modifications have been made that I personally think are significant improvements overall.
For starters, the sticks are a little taller, a full 1/2 inch tall in total which increases overall precision and control by giving you the freedom to make more subtle and controlled movements than a standard analog stick would allow. In addition, the tops are also nicely concave, providing a cradle for your thumb that – in combination with the textured rubber coating – significantly reduces the likelihood that your thumb will slip around or off of the stick. In essence, this simple attachment means you’ll get more control, better control, and it’ll make your controller look a bit cooler too.
In terms of functionality and performance, check out our CQC Signature Edition review for full details as they stay true to the formula, aside from the differences listed above, of course. As far as the products themselves, each version of the FPS Freek is designed around one of the two most popular FPS titles around today: Halo and Call of Duty. The INFINITY, which is now available at www.kontrolfreek.com, is blue with a Halo graphic motif on each piece. The HAVOC, which will be available October 23rd, is black with a Call of Duty graphic in the thumb cup. However, beyond that, they’re both extremely well-designed and effective attachments for your controllers.
Personally, I’m intrigued to see how players at a higher level put these sticks to use. They really are impressive and I’d love to see if competitive or professional players get the same amount of benefit out of them as the average player might. It might be safe to say that if you find that your current controllers are just not precise enough or don’t give you the control you’re after, try the FPS Freek line out. You can see the entire line, including the INFINITY and HAVOC (after Oct. 23) at www.kontrolfreek.com.