Double Force Score: 85% Developer: Sunflex Device Type: Controller

Function: A good PlayStation controller is like a good coffee cup. You know... the one that fits your hand so perfectly you?ll fish it out of the sink and wash it even when other cups are clean? When you get used to something, it?s hard to switch. The Double Force controller from Sunflex is modeled after the standard Sony analog hardware, but has a few really nice features that might even convince you to switch.

Performance: Seems like most of the third-party controllers feature extra buttons, and the Double Force is no exception. Turbo and Slow buttons affect the top button action, perfect for Fighting, Shooting, or Arcade games; a single button clears either of these options if you decide to turn them off mid-game. With vibration capability and a translucent case, one surprising feature is a set of flashing lights that accompany vibration, if you have it turned on. This baby lights up like a Christmas tree! Shoulder buttons are done in almost exactly the same style as Sony?s controller, with L2/R2 buttons extended. Each analog stick, although not quite as firmly planted as the Sony Dual Shock, is coated with textured rubber and done in that familiar mushroom shape. Top buttons seem bigger and easier to manage, if somewhat further apart than most other controllers. The grips are hard plastic and probably big enough to suit all but the biggest hands. A rotary-style (instead of four buttons) D-pad rounds off the package, and a nice package it is indeed.

Features: Analog controller with vibration Standard buttons plus Turbo, Slow, and Clear Analog sticks with rubber coating Eight-way rotary D-pad Flashing lights synched with vibration Extended controller cord Available in five different colors Clear plastic case

Drawbacks & Problems:: Although this is, in many ways, a carbon copy of Sony?s unit, the Double Force has a few issues. Inconsistency in the feel of each analog stick means added break-in time or control problems in games that require more fine-tuned stick work. Also, the wider spacing of the top buttons means fighting games will require a transition period in terms of control. In fact, it?s tough to recommend this controller if you?re a huge fighter fan, since button combinations (quickly) really make a life-or-death difference in games like Tekken, Dead or Alive, or Street Fighter. On the flip side, top buttons are bigger, so give it a try and you might fall in love. With all the flashing and cool looking case, Double Force is a nice alternative to Sony?s controller, but not a major advancement unless you really need Turbo or Slow.

-Fridtjof, GameVortex Communications AKA Matt Paddock