i.Glow
Score: 89% Developer: DreamGEAR Device Type: Controller
Function: Whether you want to play against more people or one of your original controllers has died on you, sometimes you just need another controller. The i.Glow controller is a wired Xbox controller with two expansion slots, much like the original Xbox controllers. In addition to the functionality expected in the original Xbox controller, however, the i.Glow has some extra features. First, it has a turbo feature that can be set independently for each action button. This can be used to give your action buttons rapid-fire ability if the game you?re playing doesn?t automatically rapid-fire when the button is held down. Second, the i.Glow has green L.E.D.s inside of it which produce a bright glow when turned on. This glow shows through an interesting crackle finish, creating a lightning-like appearance that looks pretty cool. If you have to get another controller, you might as well get one that looks cool.
Performance: The controls are laid out nicely and are pretty much like the original Xbox controller. The normal functionality won?t require any learning curve. The buttons for the turbo function (Turbo and Clear) are located below and to the left of the left analog stick. This seems to be a good spot for them, as you?re not going to accidentally hit them while moving the left stick or D-pad. The Back and Start buttons have a diagonal orientation and are located too closely together for my tastes, but once you get used to it, it?s not that big of a deal. The lighting feature works independently of the controller, and is controlled by its own power switch, which is located beneath the Back and Start buttons. This is, again, well placed. I can?t see any way you?d accidentally flip this switch. For that matter, if you did, it wouldn?t have any great bearing on your gameplay. There are rubber grips on the side of the i.Glow, which I personally find to be nice ? especially when playing for long periods of time. These grips help to keep the i.Glow securely in your hand, even when gaming gets intense and your palms start sweating. I found the i.Glow to be comfortable even during long periods of play; it fits the hands well, the controls are easy to reach and seem to be oriented nicely, and the vibration feature has a nice feel to it.
Features: Independently configurable Turbo for all action buttons Turbo and Clear buttons Aesthetically pleasing crackle paint finish Internal green L.E.D.s create lightning-like appearance Additional internal green L.E.D.s light up with vibration feature Rubber grips on sides for increased comfort Break-away cord for safety Black plastic casing with chrome accents
Drawbacks & Problems:: Other than the Back and Start buttons being strangely oriented a bit close to each other, I have no complaints about the i.Glow. The lighting effect of this controller would make it an excellent choice for taking with you to an Xbox party or using in a vehicle install ? especially if the vehicle?s decoration theme was black and green.
-Geck0, GameVortex Communications AKA Robert Perkins
PlayGear Pocket i.Glow 2.4Ghz Wireless