Right now, you can get the Razer Kishi at a low price on Amazon. It is a very compact controller that wraps around your phone like a Switch, turning it into a sleek handheld console. This is particularly ideal for cloud gaming, such as through the Xbox Game Pass or Stadia.
What kind of device is this? The Razer Kishi is a controller for smartphones. Unlike most smartphone controllers, it is not a regular gamepad that clamps the phone from above, resulting in a bulky and oddly looking device.
With the Kishi, you secure your phone between the two halves of the controller, with one part being firmly connected to the USB-C plug in the Kishi. This also means that you don’t need Bluetooth, and the Kishi does not require its own power source. Thus, your phone looks a bit like a stylish, black Switch.
And right now, this little wonder is available for the bargain price of 60 Euros at Amazon. In the following paragraphs, I will briefly introduce you to the Kishi.
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Razer Kishi – Ideal for Cloud Gaming
Weight: 163g | Connection: USB-C plug | Battery: none, powered by the phone | Price range (via Amazon): 60 – 90 Euros
For whom is the controller suitable? With its low weight and compact dimensions when folded (94.33mm x 134.1mm x 37.3mm), the Kishi fits in any pocket. This makes it ideal for all gamers who want to play on the go but don’t want to carry a bulky controller designed like an Xbox gamepad or something similar.
The biggest advantage of the Kishi is for all gamers who are enthusiastic about cloud gaming. This way, you can play your respective games from the Xbox Game Pass or Google Stadia anytime while enjoying the familiar feel of a controller.
This is what the Razer Kishi offers: The Kishi provides the usual buttons of a typical controller. On the left, there is a stick and a D-pad. On the right, another stick along with four buttons labeled X, Y, A, and B. Two shoulder buttons on each side and three action buttons complete the selection of buttons.
The buttons and controls are easily accessible and comfortable to operate. Since the Kishi is not heavy, the overall weight of the setup largely depends on your phone.
The Kishi is compatible with most smartphones, but large devices, like the S20 Note Ultra, push the Kishi to its limits and barely fit in. A list of compatible phones can be found here (via Razer.com). However, be mindful that the USB-C port is occupied by the Kishi, and you cannot connect wired headphones. Thus, you will either have to blast your surroundings with the speakers or use wireless headphones.
With the Kishi, you can play controller-compatible mobile games, such as the upcoming action RPG Diablo Immortal. Additionally, it works seamlessly with games from the Game Pass or Google Stadia.
The controller responds quickly and smoothly thanks to the direct USB-C connection; input lag is virtually nonexistent. You also don’t need cumbersome software configuration, just plug it in and start playing immediately.
The Kishi is available in a version for Android and for Apple devices.
This is what users say: On Amazon, the Kishi receives a solid 4 out of 5 stars based on 2,337 reviews (as of 26.11.2021). Users praise its portability and the uncomplicated gaming experience with the Kishi. Especially cloud gamers are very satisfied with it.
Other users complain that not all top phones fit well into the holder. The plastic construction is also sometimes criticized as “cheap”.
I, however, am still very satisfied with the Kishi; the device is always with me when I leave the house, and I enjoy playing shooters and action RPGs like Diablo Immortal with the Kishi, as long as the data connection allows it. You can find my detailed review of the Razer Kishi here on MeinMMO.
