For a while handheld gaming was seen as a somewhat diminishing market. Sony had tried and failed with the PlayStation Vita and while Nintendo continued to see success with the various DS devices, the hardware limitations meant that games released on the platform were often discarded like mobile games. Hardcore gamers had all but given up hope on a premium AAA experience on the go.
The in 2017, the Nintendo Switch released and far exceeded our handheld gaming expectations. PlayStation and Xbox fans looked on hoping that their platform of choice would release a similar device, but outside of prototypes, nothing ever came to fruition. Even now in 2023, you see articles discussing whether either Sony or Microsoft would consider entering the handheld market. They won’t. And the NACON MG-X is a prime example why.
At the rate cloud gaming is improving, it makes no sense for Xbox or PlayStation to release a dedicated gaming handheld. Instead, they can just continue to refine their technology while the world’s internet infrastructure accelerates around them. Integral to this though, is how you control the game. Touch controls are often offered, but outside of rare exceptions ruin the experience. What you need is a comfortable, elegant solution. The NACON MG-X provides that solution in spades.
The controller is designed specifically for Xbox Game Pass and offers a true console experience on your iPhone. The build quality is top-notch with a design inspired by NACON’s Pro Compact controller and the Nintendo Switch. The device is lightweight and comes with a rubber pad for extra grip, ensuring your phone stays secure. Connecting the controller to your phone is simple and can be done in seconds via Bluetooth.
The NACON MG-X can accommodate phones up to 6.7 inches, which encompasses all iPhone models to date, and comes with a spring-loaded mechanism that tightens around your device for added protection. The buttons feel responsive and firm, and the analog sticks are even better than those on the Nintendo Switch. The only slight issue I had is the stiff left and right triggers, which takes time to get used to. It’s worth noting though that these are the same tension as those found in other NACON devices and are many gamers optimal triggers.
Battery life is a big plus, with the controller having an in-built battery that lasts up to 20 hours and can be quickly charged with the included USB-C cable. I am happy to report that while devices often talk up their supposed battery life, the MG-X walks the walk and delivered on a full 20 hours and change of gaming. The exact length between charging will vary depending on if you are playing a first-person shooter or a less interactive narrative game, but either way the results were impressive.
It is worth noting that when the phone is secured in the controller, access to the charge port and headphone jack (if you have an older device) is unavailable. However you can still use AirPods and other Bluetooth audio solutions. Not being able to charge while you play is disappointing, especially when it is a feature offered on some rival controllers. However the added comfort, such as the rubber finish along the back more than make up for it.
In terms of value, the controller lands at a similar price to other devices on the market such as the Razer Kishi and Backbone. It is currently only available via the NACON store for €119.90. It certainly isn’t cheap, coming in at roughly twice the price of an official Xbox controller. But what it does is transform your phone into a portable, all in one Xbox Game Pass device and that is worth splashing out on.
Overall, the NACON MG-X is a great controller. The design is sturdy and fits your phone like a glove, even if you have a cover on it. The buttons are responsive and the analog sticks are some of the best on the market. Your experience will vary based on the internet environment you use it in, but if you have the speed, NACON will help you deliver the closest you are likely to get to an Xbox handheld.
-Craig
