This review delves into the PB Tails Crush 550 TMR controller, a unique gaming peripheral that stands out with its vintage automotive-inspired design. It examines the controller's aesthetic appeal, build quality, and functional aspects, evaluating its performance across various gaming scenarios. The article provides a comprehensive overview for potential buyers, weighing its strengths as a stylish collector's item against its limitations in competitive gaming environments.
Experience Gaming with Unmatched Style: The PB Tails Crush 550 TMR Controller
A Nod to Classic Design: The Automotive-Inspired Aesthetic
Earlier this year, the PB Tails Metal Crush Defender TMR controller captured attention with its distressed yellow finish, reminiscent of the popular 'Fallout' series, and its gleaming chrome joysticks. While 'relic' effects are not typically favored, this particular design felt exceptionally well-executed, offering an artistic and fresh alternative in a market saturated with vibrant, attention-seeking gaming accessories that often diminish the quality perception of otherwise good equipment. However, its Xbox-style button layout limited its appeal to Nintendo Switch users.
The Evolution: A New Model with Nintendo Compatibility
Fast forward several months, and a new iteration has emerged, specifically designed with Nintendo's classic button configuration. Priced at $79.99, this model is a refined version of the familiar Crush pad, boasting automotive styling from the 1950s. It commemorates the 70th anniversary of the iconic Porsche 550 Spyder, blending historical reverence with modern gaming technology.
Craftsmanship and Visual Appeal: A Detailed Examination
Although this tribute lacks official licensing, its finish is undeniably exquisite for enthusiasts of such aesthetics. The red light strip at the base, customizable in color, evokes the appearance of a car's taillight. Intricate decals and details adorning the face, combined with the silver paintwork, a simulated grille, a faux number plate, and red accents on the rear, imbue the controller with the essence of a high-quality retro collectible. The burgundy trim on the D-pad and shoulder buttons further enhances its sophisticated, vintage charm.
Ergonomics and Durability: A User's Perspective
The PB Tails Crush 550 TMR controller offers a unique tactile experience. Whether used with or without gloves, it feels like a heavier, more polished version of a classic Xbox 360 controller. The default metal joysticks contribute to its premium feel, but the glossy surface might be a drawback for gamers who experience sweaty palms during intense sessions. Surprisingly, despite initial concerns about fingerprints, the controller has maintained its pristine appearance over several weeks of use, defying expectations of constant cleaning.
Connectivity and Customization: Enhancing the Gaming Experience
The package includes a braided USB-A to C cable for charging, providing an estimated 30 hours of battery life, though this varies with lighting intensity. A dongle facilitates 2.4G wireless connection, and optional plastic/rubber stick covers are provided for those who prefer an alternative to the zinc alloy pair. These alternative covers are particularly recommended for competitive online shooters like 'Fortnite,' where precise, split-second inputs are crucial, as the chromed metal sticks might lack sufficient grip.
Precision and Responsiveness: TMR Joysticks and Magnetic Faceplate
The controller features TMR joysticks, renowned for their power efficiency and resistance to drift, comparable to Hall Effect sensors. While long-term durability requires extended testing, their initial feel is robust and highly responsive. Replacing the sticks involves removing a magnetic faceplate, a task that can be simplified by gripping the housing near the shoulder buttons and gently pressing on the sticks with your thumbs to detach the cover. PB Tails also offers additional faceplates, though swapping them might detract from the controller's original aesthetic.
Advanced Features and Minor Trade-offs: A Balanced View
The controller excels with its gyro controls, immersive rumble feedback—which simulates an engine revving upon console connection—and satisfyingly springy analog triggers. The D-pad performs well for classic Nintendo Online games, and the overall device feels substantial and high-end. The RGB lighting system is notably refined, allowing users to precisely adjust colors and intensity directly from the controller, eliminating the need for external software. While it boasts turbo options and customizable face button lighting presets that subtly reference other gaming platforms, it lacks an NFC reader for amiibo, a 'C' button for Switch 2 GameChat, and a headphone jack, making it less ideal for headset gamers or those desiring advanced back buttons.
Target Audience: A Niche for the Connoisseur
The PB Tails Crush 550 TMR controller is a luxury item for the discerning gamer. It's not a general-purpose controller for every gaming need, especially for high-intensity, competitive games. Instead, it's akin to a classic car—a beautiful piece to be admired and enjoyed in specific, relaxed settings, such as leisurely visual novels or light puzzlers. Its value lies primarily in its unique style and premium feel, making it a perfect fit for those who prioritize aesthetics and a refined gaming experience over raw competitive performance. This is a controller for the weekend, a showpiece that enhances the gaming environment rather than just facilitating gameplay.
