The MCON, a groundbreaking mobile controller that gained significant traction through a successful Kickstarter campaign, is officially launching for pre-orders. This device redefines portable gaming with its distinctive magnetic sliding design, offering a blend of convenience and high-performance features. It aims to provide a premium gaming experience that harks back to classic handheld consoles while integrating seamlessly with modern smartphones.
Mobile gaming has evolved substantially over the past few years, with a proliferation of controller-compatible Android titles, emulators, and cloud gaming services. In response to this growing demand, a variety of mobile controllers have emerged, though many adhere to a standard telescopic design. The MCON, however, distinguishes itself with an entirely novel approach, evoking the nostalgia of iconic sliding handhelds such as the PSP Go or the Xperia Play. Its innovative design allows it to attach securely to the back of a smartphone using MagSafe magnets, then smoothly extend via a spring-loaded \"switchblade\" mechanism when in use. This clever engineering ensures that the controller remains compact and discreet when not needed, yet readily deploys to provide a full suite of controls for an immersive gaming session.
Beyond its unique sliding action, the MCON controller is engineered for exceptional gaming performance. It features TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) sticks, known for their precision and responsiveness, as well as analog triggers that offer nuanced control in a wide range of games. Furthermore, it incorporates full gyro controls, adding another layer of interactive gameplay. For enhanced comfort during extended gaming marathons, the MCON includes dual deployable handles, a thoughtful addition that even many dedicated Android gaming handhelds often lack. This focus on ergonomic design ensures that players can enjoy prolonged gaming sessions without discomfort.
Connectivity is another strong suit of the MCON, utilizing Bluetooth 5.4 with multi-connect support, enabling seamless switching between various devices. The controller’s aluminum backing plate can be detached, transforming into a convenient kickstand for tabletop gaming. When fully removed from the phone, this plate doubles as a protective cover for the sticks and buttons, safeguarding them during transport. An additional accessory, the MCON Dock, is available separately for $69.99. This dock is designed to connect a phone to an external display, enabling 4K 60Hz gaming on a larger screen. It also serves as a charging station for the controller, which boasts a 500mAh battery providing up to 15 hours of gameplay, and can also operate in USB-C wired mode.
The MCON's journey from concept to reality began several years ago, gaining significant momentum in 2024 with the collaboration of smartphone accessory manufacturer Ohsnap. The Kickstarter campaign, launched in January of the current year, proved to be a resounding success, raising an impressive $1.75 million from over 16,000 enthusiastic backers. The controller is set to be available for pre-order today at 3 PM EST on the Ohsnap website, priced at $149.99. This pricing positions the MCON at the premium end of the Bluetooth controller market, where it directly competes with established devices like the Backbone Pro and Razer Kishi V3 Pro. However, the MCON distinguishes itself by offering a significantly more compact and innovative design compared to its bulkier, telescopic rivals, making it an appealing option for mobile gamers seeking both portability and high-fidelity controls.
The launch of the MCON controller represents a notable advancement in the realm of mobile gaming accessories. Its combination of a sleek, magnetic sliding mechanism, console-grade controls, and thoughtful features like deployable handles and an optional docking station, offers a compelling package for avid mobile gamers. This device not only simplifies the integration of physical controls with smartphones but also elevates the overall mobile gaming experience to new heights of convenience and immersion.
