Backbone Pro: Elevating Mobile Gaming with Comfort and Cross-Device Functionality

The mobile controller company Backbone has recently launched its Backbone Pro controller, designed to significantly enhance the iOS and Android gaming landscape. This new controller builds upon the foundation laid by the Backbone One, introducing several premium features aimed at serious mobile gamers.

Key Features of the Backbone Pro

The Backbone Pro distinguishes itself from its predecessor with several notable enhancements:

• Full-Size Joysticks: The Pro model boasts full-size joysticks, providing a more comfortable and precise control experience, akin to traditional console controllers.
• Re-mappable Buttons: Gamers can customize the button layout to suit their individual preferences and gaming styles, offering a personalized control scheme.
• Bluetooth Compatibility: Unlike the Backbone One, the Pro version supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to be used wirelessly with various devices, including TVs and tablets.

Cross-Device Functionality and Cloud Gaming

One of the most compelling aspects of the Backbone Pro is its ability to function as a wireless controller. This feature is particularly useful for cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass. Users can start a game on their TV using the Backbone Pro, then seamlessly transition to their mobile device by plugging it into the controller and continuing their game on the go.

Maneet Khaira, the founder of Backbone, emphasized the company's vision for straightforward gaming experiences, drawing parallels to the seamless connectivity of AirPods. The goal is to make gaming as simple and intuitive as possible across various screens.

Backbone's Bet on Mobile Gaming

Backbone is strategically investing in the burgeoning mobile gaming market, which has seen substantial growth due to the expansion of cloud gaming options. The company has established itself as a leading hardware provider for mobile gamers. Furthermore, Backbone has garnered significant attention and financial backing from celebrity investors, including Ashton Kutcher, The Weeknd, MrBeast, Post Malone, and Amy Schumer, as well as gaming industry figures like Discord founder Jason Citron.

Hands-On Experience: Comparing Backbone Pro to Nintendo Switch

To evaluate the Backbone Pro, the author compared the mobile gaming experience to that of a dedicated gaming device, the Nintendo Switch. Games already owned on the Switch were downloaded on an iPhone to facilitate a direct comparison.

After spending 13 hours playing Stardew Valley on iOS over three days, the author found the Backbone Pro to be surprisingly comfortable. While acknowledging the minor annoyance of managing phone notifications during gameplay, the author preferred the comfort of using the Backbone Pro on the couch over the Nintendo Switch, which prioritizes screen size over ergonomics.

Ergonomic Design and Intuitive Feel

The Backbone Pro excels in its ergonomic design. Unlike some new devices that require an adjustment period, the Backbone Pro feels immediately comfortable and intuitive. The author noted that plugging the phone into the controller's USB-C port allowed for seamless gameplay of games like Hades, which require rapid button presses, rivaling the experience on the Nintendo Switch. The author even found the Backbone Pro more comfortable than the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for such games.

Development Process and Precision Engineering

Khaira drew inspiration from Meta's rapid prototyping approach in designing the Quest VR headset. Backbone invested heavily in similar technology, 3D-printing over 9,000 different parts to fine-tune every aspect of the controller. This meticulous approach resulted in a design that makes Joy-Cons feel comparatively rudimentary.

Price and Value Proposition

The Backbone Pro is priced at $169.99, which may be considered expensive, especially since a refurbished Nintendo Switch Lite can be purchased for the same amount. However, for serious gamers who require cross-device functionality and a premium mobile gaming experience, the Backbone Pro could be a worthwhile investment.

For those who do not need cross-device functionality and primarily game on their phone, the original Backbone One, priced at $99.99, may be a more suitable option.

Final Thoughts

The Backbone Pro represents a significant step forward in mobile gaming controllers. Its premium features, ergonomic design, and cross-device functionality make it a compelling option for gamers looking to enhance their mobile gaming experience. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the Backbone Pro offers a level of comfort and versatility that sets it apart from other mobile gaming solutions.