Over the course of this generation, Sony has generally left controller modifications and models up to third parties. With Microsoft putting a large focus on first party support with the Elite controllers and add-on kits, players wondered if we would ever see support from Sony directly.
Well surprisingly, that day is today as Sony unveiled the “Back Button Attachment” for the Dual Shock 4 this morning. By plugging in to your microphone slot, it adds two back paddles along with a small OLED screen through which you can map any button function to the paddles. The Back Button Attachment launches in US and Canada on January 23, 2020, for $29.99 USD, $39.99 CAD. Here are the details courtesy of the PlayStation Blog.
- Responsive Back Buttons and High-fidelity OLED Screen: The two back buttons can map up to 16 different actions such as triangle, circle, R1 and R2 to name a few and provide amazing tactile feedback, so you can jump and slide without missing a beat. The attachment also features an integrated OLED display that provides real time information around button assignments.
- Highly Configurable: A dedicated button allows you to remap back button inputs on the fly, so you are always prepared no matter what game you’re playing. Furthermore, you can save and choose up to three different profiles for use in various games and there is also a headset pass-through for connecting any 3.5mm wired headset to the controller.
- Developed by PlayStation: The product is tested and approved for all of your favorite PlayStation 4 and PlayStation VR titles, and is built with the ergonomics of the DS4 in mind.
Our Take
While this isn’t exactly what we expected out of Sony in terms of first party controller support, it’s nice to see them putting their hat into the ring. We’re certainly curious as to how this will feel compared to third party efforts so look for coverage on our YouTube channel at launch!