Product Info

Brand: PowerA
Model: MOGA Pro Controller
Review Unit Provided By: PowerA
Release Date: April 18, 2013

Review

The MOGA Pro Controller is a Bluetooth game controller for use with the Android platform on phones and tablets. Considering the fact that most phones and tablets out these days pack a serious punch in terms of power, it only makes sense that a high-end (at least in comparison to some of the other mobile game controllers on the market) controller geared towards truly hardcore Android gamers would be released. So, does it live up to expectations, or does it fall flat?

In short, the controller is amazing. If you’re on the fence about whether trying out mobile gaming is worth it or not, then this controller is for you. It’s clear that it’s geared towards those used to console gaming as well, with its Xbox 360 (offset dual joysticks, D pad, ABXY buttonesque design. That means that gaming is a whole lot simpler with this controller because odds are you’re already used to the button scheme.

“Well, how do you play games with it Christian?“, is what I’m sure you’re asking? Good question, reader. The center of the controller has a clip in the center that flips up fit your phone. The clip extends to fit phone sizes roughly up to the Samsung Galaxy Note II, which is great.

If you’d rather play on your tablet, the controller comes with a handy tablet stand to prop your up on. The controller even features Android device to TV connectivity so that you can play games on a huge screen, which just furthers the console like experience even more.

Once you figure out which device you want to play with, gaming is as simple as downloading the MOGA app (they provide a QR code or you can just search it on the Play Store), connecting the controller to your phone via Bluetooth (it offers guided instructions) and then browsing through the games… which you have to download if you want to play. That’s probably important to know.

It’s quick. It’s painless. I was quite glad setting everything up was so easy too, because it meant more time for gaming. And boy did I game. I stress tested the heck out of that little controller and I am pleased to say it very much lived up to my expectations.

I played the following games on my phone and tablet (an HTC One and Samsung Galaxy Tab II respectively) and all ran flawlessly. I’m talking smooth graphics, great, responsive controls, the whole deal.

• Grand Theft Auto Vice City
• NFL Pro 2013
• Tiki Kart 3D
• Doom GLES
• Pac Man
• Six-Guns

I also played for quite awhile without having to stop and charge. MOGA claims that the controller has a battery life of around 12 hours and I played it for about six without the controller dying or any problems. So that’s a great sign.

So far my literal only complaint about the controller is that currently, there’s not a lot of titles available that are enhanced for the MOGA controller and guaranteed to play on it. Additionally, not all title available on Android can be played with the controller. However, since I have downloaded the MOGA app, there have been several new titles released. If that is any indication, then it seems like the small library of titles will soon not be a problem.

Score: 4.5/5

Overall, the MOGA Pro Controller is an absolute must if you consider yourself a hardcore Android gamer. This controller redefines the mobile gaming experience and is definitely worthwhile of a purchase. Do yourself a favor and check it out.