8BitDo have amassed a strong reputation over the past many years, thanks in part to their retro-inspired accessories alongside an overall string of high-quality controllers. That said, their companion desktop software has been lacking, with Linux users in particular unable to update their controllers. In a welcome move, 8BitDo has now unveiled its web-based ‘Ultimate Software Online’ – making the process easier for everyone.

As reported by the publication GamingOnLinux, popular accessory maker 8BitDo took to their Discord server to announce a new online firmware updater, writing:

“We’re starting a beta test for a new web-based Ultimate Software, designed for users who have difficulties using the Ultimate Software desktop app, such as Linux desktop users.”

Available to access HERE, the site currently only works on Chromium-based browsers. Still, this represents a welcome step, particularly for Linux users, but also those who do not want to bother with another app on their PC.

As mentioned, the site is still in beta at the moment, and so expect changes / improvements over time. While the main ‘Ultimate Software’ app remains the primary way to interface with your controllers, this newly-announced alternative is much appreciated.

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KitGuru says: What do you think of 8BitDo’s hardware? Have you had issues with updating your controllers in the past? Let us know down below.

A little over a year ago, Sony announced and unveiled ‘Project Defiant’ – later officially being known as the FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick. Initially set to launch in under a month’s time, Sony has now turned around and made the surprising decision to delay the controller indefinitely, citing “unexpected production delays.”

Taking to the PlayStation Blog, the VP of Global Marketing at SIE – Isabelle Tomatis – offered an update on the current status of their FlexStrike wireless fight stick

According to the company, “Due to unexpected production delays, FlexStrike wireless fight stick will launch at a later date,” adding that “we will share an update soon.”

Sony is pushing out email updates to all those who pre-ordered the hardware with details on exactly what happens next.

As mentioned, the FlexStrike was announced just over a year ago, with official pricing and pre-order details going live last month – making this sudden announcement quite unexpected.

Whenever it does eventually release, the FlexStrike should be a solid addition to PlayStation’s line-up of accessories, offering low-latency wireless gameplay alongside adjustable controls, a touchpad and everything else one would need (including a carry case).

Already a relatively expensive product (initially retailing for £179.99), hopefully this delay does not ultimately lead to a price increase.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the FlexStrike? Is it more form over function? Is a wireless fight stick necessary in your eyes? Let us know down below.

While console manufacturers themselves tend to land on the more conservative side of things when it comes to designing their first-party controllers, 3rd-parties are afforded far more freedom to embrace newer technologies and more niche requirements. Announcing their latest take on high-end controllers, ASUS has now unveiled the ROG Raikiri II Pro PC.

Officially unveiling their latest high-end PC controller, the ROG Raikiri II Pro includes pretty much everything you could want and then some, featuring:

• Hot-Swappable TMR Joysticks (with interchangeable caps and a magnetic faceplate)
• Low-latency 8K Polling Rate
• Fully customisable extra buttons (4 rear, 2 bumpers and 4 face buttons)
• Dual-mode triggers (TMR / micro-switch)
• Up to 79 hours of battery life (at a 1000Hz Polling Rate)

By far the most interesting core feature of the Raikiri II Pro PC is with its ‘Full Colour Panel’. Positioned similarly to the PlayStation 5’s touchpad, this display allows you to customise all aspects of the controller, including:

• Game profiles
• Button remapping
• Lighting effects customisation
• Vibration strength
• Animations
• Calibration
• And “more”

To complete the package, the Raikiri II Pro PC throws in a bunch of welcome accessories, namely:

• Dedicated charging case
• Charging stand
• Rear button cover plates
• Two TMR modules
• Two extra joystick caps (one concave and the other convex)

No price has been provided, but based on the depth of the controller’s features, its included accessories and ROG’s other offerings, expect it to have quite the high-end asking price.

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KitGuru says: What do you think of the ROG Raikiri II Pro PC? Is the full-colour panel useful or just a gimmick? Let us know your thoughts down below.