Sony is stepping into the world of arcade controllers in the form of this new device under the internal codename "Project Defiant." This is not just an ordinary peripheral device but instead, a dedicated fight stick engineered with design aimed to give you the arcade experience in your PlayStation 5 gaming rig at home and even when on your PC.
What makes it buzz in the fighting game community Well, one promise low-latency wireless action as first introduced with Sony's PS Link technology, which we first heard about back in 2023. Of course, if you prefer a wired connection, USB-C is also an option. While Sony hasn't dropped exact numbers on wireless lag, the aim is clearly responsive gameplay.
One particularly interesting fact relates to the joystick itself. Sony would provide the chance for customization of the restriction gates, thereby having a possibility to link the movement of the stick to user preference, so whether it is octagonal, round, or square gates for those definite inputs, it is a big deal for serious players with very individual tastes on the feel of their sticks.
Sony seems to have factored in the practicalities as well, with Project Defiant, according to reports, coming with a tailor-made carry case equipped with a sling for users who would like to haul those precious joysticks around. That's a pretty nifty feature for tournaments or anyone attempting to take the action to a friend's place.
The buttons feature mechanical switches underneath, a popular choice for their tactile feedback, but then again, the button layout itself does not copy that of the old-school Street Fighter arcade cabinets. That pretty much kicked off some talk about the competition in which muscle memory is king.
However, some questions do remain. Sony hasn't really gone into detail about the internal mechanism of the joystick, so long-term durability remains unknown, along with its potential for drift. And while PS Link users won't have to share the USB adapter for wireless play, that's something yet to be announced by the company.
Apart from fighting games' core components, Project Defiant shall have additional modern conveniences. It will feature a power button that may wirelessly turn on your PlayStation 5-neat There is also an integrated DualSense controller touchpad, ensuring compatibility with games that would want to utilize that feature.
Battery life and all the fine details are still under wraps.
When Can You Get to Use It
Patience, little warrior. Sony's Project Defiant is set to launch sometime in 2026. So, manage to spare a few bucks and practice those combos.
