Genki Manta: Fully Customizable Game Controller with Built-in Screen
Now available for pre-order on Kickstarter, the Manta promises a personalized gaming experience like no other.
1Genki's first in-house designed controller
After collaborating with 8BitDo two years ago, Genki has announced its first completely self-designed controller, the Manta. Featuring an unconventional design with thumbsticks and buttons positioned above a 2.9-inch LCD screen, the Manta appears bulkier than competitors. The controller's standout feature is its extensive customization options adjustable directly through the screen interface.
2Kickstarter pre-order campaign
The Manta launched today through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, with early backers able to pre-order the controller at a discounted $189 price (expected retail: $279). While this marks Genki's ninth crowdfunded device, the company has an excellent track record of delivering on its campaigns, reducing backer risk.
3Deep customization via Raspberry Pi
Powered by a dedicated Raspberry Pi RP2350 microcontroller, the Manta offers profound customization capabilities. Users can create and switch between multiple console, game, and user profiles. Adjustable settings include thumbstick sensitivity/dead zones, haptic feedback intensity, and complete button remapping for personalized gameplay.
4Tristage triggers and analog buttons
The Manta introduces what Genki calls 'tristage triggers' - adding a third intermediate option to the standard two trigger modes found in premium controllers, optimized for 'fastest repeated presses.' The face buttons feature analog functionality, allowing users to individually adjust each button's actuation depth for precise sensitivity control.
5Advanced haptics and drift-resistant thumbsticks
Linear magnetic ram motors in the grips deliver targeted haptic feedback directly to hands. The controller uses tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks with adjustable tension to resist drift. Additional features include a 2,600mAh user-replaceable battery and six programmable rear/shoulder buttons for enhanced control schemes.
6Multiple connectivity options
While supporting standard Bluetooth wireless connectivity, the Manta includes a 2.4GHz dongle for low-latency gameplay and USB-C wired connection options. A dedicated button enables instant switching to keyboard/mouse mode for browser navigation without additional peripherals - a unique feature among game controllers.
7Differentiating from competitors
Though companies like Anbernic offer controllers with built-in screens, the Manta stands out with its unprecedented customization depth. The macro recording/editing feature allows combining multiple button presses into single commands - a potential game-changer for competitive gamers seeking every possible speed advantage.
8A new standard for game controllers?
With its comprehensive customization capabilities, the Genki Manta could establish new standards in the game controller market. Designed for both professional gamers and personalization enthusiasts, its success may force competitors to adopt similar features. The Kickstarter campaign's performance will shape Manta's future in the consumer electronics landscape.
Original article: The Verge — Genki Manta: Ekranlı ve Tamamen Özelleştirilebilir Yeni Oyun Kumandası