Wireless controlling for the Xbox is finally here. See if the MadCatz controller passes the test.
Imagine this: You are playing a game on your beloved Xbox and someone wants to cut in front of the TV, you then have to lower your controller so they can step over the cord. Not really a big deal but imagine if you dont need a controller cord. Imagine if you are all the way across the room, where your cord doesn't reach, no fears, your Lynx Wireless Controller will work! I guess what I am saying is, "Once you go Wireless, you can't go back to the cord days."
As you know, Mad Catz makes extremely good products (read all our other Mad Catz reviews if you haven't already) so when we got I received the Lynx, I couldn't wait to take it for a test drive...umm... test play.
The controller is almost identical to the Control Pad Pro which is not a bad thing. The Lynx is about the same size of the official Xbox controller which means this controller may not be for those with small hands, so you are warned. For those with small hands, which I would imagine are the ladies and children, you might want to check out the MicroCON by Mad Catz. The buttons are layed out in a diamond shape while the white and black buttons are on top, just like the official xbox controller. The triggers have just the right amount of pressure and the thumbsticks are accurate, essential for games that require you to aim precisely.
What makes the Lynx Wireless, you ask? Well, it is a small pod that plugs into your chosen controller port which then sends and receives the signal to and the controller. To run the Lynx you will need to purchase 3 AA batteries which, according to Mad Catz, will last 60 - 165 hours depending on the motor setting you set it to. Speaking of motor setting, you get the option to completely turn off the rumble feature, or you can set it to low or normal. The Lynx uses 900MHz frequency and it uses it well. I walked out of the room, went behind walls, and buried the controller under a pile of blankets and much to my surprise it worked perfectly!
Of course, nothing is perfect, leaving one very big bummer out in the open with the Lynx. You can't connect the Xbox Live Communicator into the Lynx because of the wireless stuff that is inside of it. Memory card slots are available on the pod. So if you want to talk trash while using Live, you are out of luck.
Overall, the Mad Catz Lynx Wireless Controller is a must buy, unless you are going to be talking trash on Live, then it is up to you to decide what you want: Wireless or trash talking. We say go with Wireless, but it is up to you. For $59 bucks, the Lynx is worth it.
