Dual Analog iOS Game Controller Revealed

Console-style controls for iOS.

Peripheral manufacturer Duo Games has lifted the lid on its new Duo Gamer controller for iPod, iPhone and iPad, created in conjunction with Gameloft. The dual-analog controller is powered by two AA batteries and pairs wirelessly via Bluetooth to your iOS gaming device. Besides two analog sticks, the controller also features four primary face buttons and left and right triggers. Each controller also ships with a stand for your iOS device.

Five Gameloft titles have received software updates to support the hardware: Asphalt 7: Heat, Brothers in Arms 2: Global Front, Modern Combat 3: Fallen Nation, N.O.V.A. 3 and Order & Chaos Online. Gameloft has pledged to update more of its titles to support the controller in the future. Specific plans have not been announced but it's easy to envision titles like Wild Blood or the company's upcoming freemium MOBA title taking full advantage of true dual analog controls.

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Initial snap impressions around the office have been mixed. Some IGN editors have voiced concerns about the controller feeling a little cramped and not properly fitting in their hand, as well as concerns bout the aesthetic design about the hardware itself. But the controller works as advertised when in-game. The concave analog sticks feel snappy and are a big improvement in shooters like N.O.V.A. 3 compared to virtual touchscreen thumbpads.

The Duo Gamer carries an MSRP of $79.99 and is beginning to ship to retailers nationwide now. The controller will be available on Amazon.com, Target, Apple Stores and other major retailers.

Justin is Editor of IGN Wireless. You can follow him on Twitter and IGN.