I love my Backbone controllers. I have tested practically every device in their range, and I’ve admired the build quality, usability, and portability. Consequently, when they announced the new Backbone One: Xbox Edition, I was a little excited, to say the least. I broke this news recently but kept my powder dry. After all, I didn’t know if the latest controller would live up to its previous standards. Spoiler alert: It does, and it excels in many areas.
This retro green controller has a translucent aesthetic. The glorious green shell is reminiscent of the early Xbox era. Moreover, the ability to see the internal components will fascinate many gamers. On top of this, it is designed with Xbox players in mind. The Xbox button lets you select gamers from your library or shortcut to video recording. This is perfect if you love to capture footage and show off to your friends.
This compact device is designed with marathon sessions in mind. It is lightweight and comfortable to use. Additionally, it has pass-through charging to ensure that you never run out of juice. Unlike some of its peers, you can use non-Bluetooth headphones via a 3.5mm jack. This increases versatility and reduces the draw on your mobile phone battery.
What’s in the box of the Backbone One: Xbox Edition?
- The compact packaging is similar to other Backbone products. Furthermore, it is pleasant to look at and can be recycled.
- The Backbone One: Xbox Edition is a fantastic gaming tool. Moreover, it is small enough to fit in your coat pocket or bag. As such, you needn’t worry about a bulky controller weighing you down.
- Spare grips allow you to connect your phone in its case.
- Download the Backbone app with the handy QR code.
Technical aspects.
The Backbone One: Xbox Edition is a USB-C 2nd-generation device. Accordingly, it is compatible with modern Android and Apple devices. This was a great move as gamers tend to roll with up-to-date phones, and Backbone is following this trend. Furthermore, the USB-C port is stronger and more reliable than the Lightning alternative. As such, durability is improved, and I experienced no connectivity issues.
Unlike other Cloud gaming controllers, this device has no battery. This may seem strange, but your mobile phone does all of the work. With minimal power draw and pass-through charging, gamers will not struggle during long sessions.
Backbone App.
Purchasing yearly subscriptions for different gaming packages isn’t alien territory. However, many gamers may struggle to see the benefit of the Backbone service. I trialed the product and was impressed with the UI and the seamless transition between games. Additionally, it was easy to use, and it made the controller a more complete package.
If you don’t feel like investing around £40 for this service, you don’t have to. This approach was great and something that should be applauded. You are not penalised for circumnavigating the optional software. Instead, you are free to cloud game directly from Xbox or stream from your console if you are on the same network.
Build quality.
Where the Backbone One: Xbox Edition excels is its incredible build quality. The spring-loaded sliders expand the controller from 176.2mm to 257.6mm. This is large enough to fit in most modern phones without placing pressure on the USB-C male connection. If you haven’t used a Backbone product, you will need a little trial and error to connect your phone. However, once you are familiar with the quirks, you will execute the process in no time.
Each of the buttons feels like a smaller version of the official Xbox controller. The compact analogue sticks take some getting used to, but once you understand the range of movement and the lower stick height, you’ll play your Cloud games like a pro. Actuation distance is vitally important when playing fast-paced games. Thankfully, the Backbone One: Xbox Edition is ultra-responsive, and the actuation distance is comfortable. Furthermore, you do not need to jab the buttons to execute any action.
Finally, the old-school green translucent livery is incredible! This device screams Xbox and Halo, and I loved it as a consequence. As you hold it, you feel like you have a piece of gaming history.
Is the Backbone One: Xbox Edition worth it?
Cloud gaming is coming on in leaps and bounds. Furthermore, fibre internet is making its way into more homes, and 5G connectivity is improving daily. Subsequently, the ability to stream and game on the move is improving. This huge movement requires tech and peripherals to support it. Thankfully, Backbone is at the fore, and gamers will improve their experience if they invest. The Backbone One: Xbox Edition is an amazing device designed with Cloud Gaming in mind. If you want the best product when you are out and about, I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Backbone can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
