Fanatec is a German company specialized in designing PS2 and computer gaming controllers. One of its devices is the Speedster. It`s a PS2 controller which has taken a very different road compared to the original Sony design. The shape of the Speedster was designed to accommodate the so called Twist*n*Turn axis. This feature will provide gamers with a more realistic control over racing games. The controller kind of slides left or right depending on the steering direction. The device also comes in white, which is opposite to the black controller provided with the PS2.



Fanatec also equipped the Speedster with two analog triggers which the company states will provide racing fans the comfort of precise braking and precise acceleration. The top most blue leds indicate the pressure applied to each of the two triggers.



For GTA style games the gamepad allows instant switching between driving and running modes so users can enjoy a smooth gaming experience without being bothered by complicated control settings. A special attention was given to the D-pad which implements 8 independent buttons so that sports and fighting games can be more accurately controlled.



For this is marketed as a professional gaming device, the controller allows for custom vibration settings, triggers can be mapped with custom timings, and the device operates wirelessly over the 2,4GHz frequency. Let`s just hope it will not interfere with Wifi, Bluetooth or DECT wireless phones.



The product comes packed with the Play*n*Charge kit and 3 rechargeable 2000 mAh batteries that allow gamers to still use the device while it is charging from the gaming console. Speedster is also compatible with the PS3 using and USB adapter for connection. There is also an included 5 m long USB cable.



The Fanatec Speedster PS2 controller has a price range of 40-59 euros (54$ - 80$).