Like the MOGA Ace Power, Logitech’s PowerShell is part of the first generation of gaming controllers that make use of iOS 7′s controller API. While both controllers only work with a handful of games for now, their Apple’s long overdue API for third-party contorllers means the list of compatible games should easily grow in the future.
Seeing as the Ace Power and the PowerShell are the only horses in this race at the moment, early adopters can decide between the two based on a few factors. First off are the controls. The Ace Power has more input options than the PowerShell. In addition to the d-pad, four face buttons and two shoulder buttons that are also on the PowerShell, the Ace Power also has two analog sticks and two more shoulder buttons.
The second factor is portability. The Ace Power collapses into a smaller form, while the PowerShell is stuck in its elongated form. Third are their built-in batteries, which can also be used to charge the iOS device that’s docked into it. The Ace Power has an 1800 mAh battery while the PowerShell has a slightly smaller 1500 mAh battery.
So far it looks like the PowerShell is the inferior option, but one thing that’s sketchy about MOGA’s controller is it’s questionable build quality. Watch the hands-on videos of Kotaku and CNET and you’ll see what I mean. Granted, we’ve yet to see a similar test with Logitech’s offering, so I suggest you wait until multiple reviews are out there before choosing either one. Then there’s the fact that these controllers will only work with the iPhone 5, 5S, 5C and the fifth-generation iPod Touch.
I’ll wait for an iOS 7-compatible wireless controller so I can use it on my iPad. But if you really can’t wait, you can already place a pre-order for both the Logitech PowerShell and the MOGA Power ACE on the Apple Store. Both devices cost $100 (USD). The PowerShell is also available from Amazon and Best Buy.
If you use an Apple gadget like the iPhone or iPod Touch that uses the Lighting connector and iOS, a new portable game controller has turned up aimed specifically at you. The controller comes from MOGA and is called the Ace Power. The controller is the first designed specifically to work with iOS 7′s controller APIs according to the manufacturer.
Like most of the gaming controllers designed for iPhones and iPod Touch devices, the Ace Power expands and the iPhone slips into the middle of the controller. The controller collapses down for added portability when not in use. It also has an 1800 mAh internal battery allowing it to keep your iPhone or iPod Touch juiced up while you play your favorite games.
The Ace Power has dual analog sticks, dual shoulder buttons, a D-pad, and four action buttons. It’s also got easily accessible charging and headphone jacks while your device is docked.
One caveat to all add-on controllers is that games have to be designed with support for the controller in mind. That means the success of the controller is likely to revolve around how many developers add support for it to their games. However, since this controller will use iOS7′s native controller APIs it’s likely that many games will support it down the road.
The device can be pre-ordered for $100(USD) directly from the manufacturer and via the Apple Store soon. For now, you can sign up to be notified when they’re available.
[via Engadget]
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