Hyperkin's new controller, dubbed "The Competitor," aims to bridge the gap for Xbox players yearning for the aesthetic elegance of Sony's PlayStation 5 DualSense controller, while adding functional upgrades. Compatible with Xbox consoles and PCs, The Competitor reimagines the classic Xbox gamepad, borrowing design cues from Sony's current-generation controller.

The Competitor features a minimalist design, swappable thumbcaps, Hall effect sticks, and impulse triggers, offering a blend of style and performance. Mappable rear buttons provide an additional layer of customization for players seeking a competitive edge. However, the controller is corded-only, a potential drawback for gamers accustomed to wireless freedom.

The Xbox controller's design has remained largely unchanged since the console's first generation, becoming a standard across the industry. This consistency has led to ubiquity, but also a sense of longing for the sleek, symmetrical design of the DualSense among some Xbox enthusiasts. Hyperkin's The Competitor seeks to address this desire by blending the familiar Xbox layout with Sony-inspired aesthetics.

The controller's design tweaks are primarily cosmetic, focusing on visual appeal rather than a complete overhaul of the input scheme. This approach allows players to maintain their muscle memory while enjoying a more modern aesthetic.

The Competitor is currently available for purchase at Amazon, GameStop, and Hyperkin for $50. The controller has received a rating of 7/10, with praise for its design and features, but criticism for its corded-only connectivity.