Reviewed: September 23, 2002
Reviewed by: Mark Smith

Manufacturer
MadCatz

Type: Gamepad
System: PlayStation/PlayStation 2

Rating: 9.0

Features

The MicroCON is a scaled down version of the Dual Force 2 controller, ideal for kids or adults with smaller hands. The design and button placement is nearly identical to its larger cousin; everything is just more compact. I was amazed at how solid this controller feels. The buttons and control sticks all have a great feel to them, and the rubber grips fit snugly in my palms.

The MicroCON retains everything from the full-sized controller including the precise analog control, pressure sensitive buttons, smooth triggers, and nice crisp D-pad. The handy Macro button lets you program your favorite combos or special moves for easy access and the 8’ cable gives you an additional 2’over the standard controller.

I put the MicroCON through some rigorous testing with several games. I had only one complaint with this controller. The START and SELECT buttons have been relocated so they are angled to the top-left of the 4-button cluster. This allowes the dual sticks to move closer together ultimately achieving the smaller controller design; however, in doing so the sticks are actually too close together.

Those of you who are used to operating those twin sticks with the padded part of your thumb will find that your thumbs with now collide with each other when using both sticks at once. The solution is to start using the sticks with the tips of your thumb but this can be quite awkward, even with practice. It never felt natural, even after several hours of play. I'm guessing this won't even be an issue for kids with smaller hands.

Available in four translucent colors (Black, Blue, Purple, Silver) for only $19.99 these controllers are about $10 less than Sony's gamepad. MadCatz has delivered yet another quality game controller that fills a much needed niche market. This is the perfect controller for kids just getting started in their gaming career.