AfterDawn: News

Sony to say goodbye to DualShock design for PS4 controllers?

After 15 years, it appears that Sony will move away from the classic DualShock controller design seen in past PlayStation consoles.

The upcoming PS4 will see the new controller, which has already gone through "numerous iterations" in its prototypes, say CVG sources.



Some of the experiments have included controllers with biometric sensors and LCD touch screens although it is still unclear how the final model will look or feel.

A second source says Sony is "trying to emulate the same user interface philosophies as the PS Vita" which most likely means touch interfaces of some sort.

Sony unveiled the DualShock design with the original PlayStation, and has evolved to include wireless capabilities, rumble, and some motion control.

Written by: Andre Yoskowitz @ 18 Jan 2013 14:20

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• 20 comments

• Qliphah

  I just have to say I would be perfectly content using the PS controller from any generation until the day I get the controls jacked straight into my brain.

  18.1.2013 15:25 #1

• aw2600

  I would be happy using an Atari 2600 joystick on any console. Modern controllers offer more options but are often overly complex. Simplicity wins every time.

  18.1.2013 15:31 #2

• snardos

  I really hope that they don't put in touch controls. If they do then I hope you aren't forced to use them. I really like the layout of the dualshock controller, but who knows, they might surprise me and build something better and easy to get used to. I really don't need a screen though. I don't like the idea of having to look down at the controller while I'm playing a game.

  18.1.2013 15:52 #3

• pensfan12

  As much as I dont mind the Dualshock controller a new design would be nice to see. Bring it on Sony.
  

  
  

  18.1.2013 17:47 #4

• Ripper

  As someone who has used a Playstation - and, consequently, a Dualshock controller - since the original version, I am of the opinion that unless they get this completely right then I don't think it's going to go down well. We shall have to wait and see!
  

  
  

  18.1.2013 19:44 #5

• someguy15

  It better not turn into some rubbish like the Wii U controller. If it does, screw it.

  18.1.2013 20:05 #6

• Tazer247

  I think Sony has enough sense to put out something good. And not drastically different. They are one of the few companies that could take a hint and keep the same controller through so many generations of their system. (If it ain't broke, don't fix it!)
  
  They just seem to be good at adapting to the times like they have in the past. Adding rumble, motion sensors, wireless connectivity. I think we are going to be happy with their new product, especially after so many "iterations" they've worked with.
  
  +1 to the excited consumer list
  

  18.1.2013 21:16 #7

• Tjlight00003

  dont fix what is not broken Sony, this has to be just rumors

  19.1.2013 00:07 #8

• PraisesToAllah

  The PlayStation controller is one of the best fits for human hands. I just want the shape to remain the same. No weird BS junk like touch screen LCD crap.
  
  Keep it simple.

  19.1.2013 01:01 #9

• A5J4DX

  i dont mind the same pad but change is inevitable
  

  19.1.2013 13:00 #10

• deucezulu22

  Lol, so closed minded. pretty sure Sony will come out with a good controller.
  

  19.1.2013 22:15 #11

• molsen

  Having used Sony's for quite some time, I think it will be more evolutionary than revolutionary.

  21.1.2013 14:14 #12

• DXR88

  hopefully the controller doesn't get any smaller, the DS series are hand cramp central for me.
  

  Powered By
  
  

  23.1.2013 05:02 #13

• casurratt

  So they FINALLY put two sticks on their portable device (PSVita) and then take them away completely on the new device. I can't say that I'm very surprised by such an idiotic move by Sony (as they are so incredibly prone to making). But jaysus.

  25.1.2013 14:25 #14

• god_gamer (unverified)

  I am so glad that sony is moving away from its horribly designed controller. The only people who really enjoy using this controller are those who have become acustom to it after years of psx and ps2 game play. Owning both systems and a ps3 I can safely say the current controller sucks.

  25.1.2013 14:48 #15

• 3rdgen

  Not much wrong with the same old controller they have. To tell you the truth. The only reason I never looked twice at a Xbox was due to the controller. That and they always break down. I am sure they are being careful not to change it to much but its a real thin line and I hope they are careful enough.
  

  Hey take it easy

  25.1.2013 15:34 #16

• adre02

  Never once seen the need for dual shock.
  

  This is superman

  27.1.2013 19:25 #17

• Interestx

  Got both, I find the Xbox controller by far the better.
  

  27.1.2013 20:56 #18

• Qliphah

  Originally posted by adre02: Never once seen the need for dual shock. You have a point there, it's just the shape and feel of the controller that's perfect. The dualshlock and motion controls are something they should have left out. In fact with how little they were ever used I don't know why they though PSmove was a good idea....

  28.1.2013 09:02 #19

• Jemborg

  The OUYA controller I'm getting with the console will be ps3/xbox like with a touchpad apparently.
  

  Its a lot easier being righteous than right.
  
  
  

  28.1.2013 11:59 #20