For fighting game enthusiasts who prefer a controller over a fight stick, the Hori Fighting Commander Octa (Tekken 8 Edition) for PC stands out as a top-tier choice. With its responsive buttons, excellent D-pad, and customizable features, this pad offers a near-arcade experience for PC gamers.
Responsive Buttons for Precise Inputs
The Hori Fighting Commander Octa (FCO) features a design that prioritizes fighting game mechanics. It sports six face buttons, a crucial element for playing complex fighting games like those in the Capcom series, such as Street Fighter 6. The buttons offer a satisfyingly clicky tactile feedback, reminiscent of the best mechanical keyboards, ensuring every input is registered with precision.
While the bumper buttons are standard, the trigger buttons are notably different. They lack a spring mechanism, which is advantageous for fighting games where rapid, precise inputs are paramount, unlike in racing or shooter games where spring-loaded triggers mimic real-world actions. Although the FCO for PS5 omits a right analog stick, this PC version includes a small nub that can function as an analog stick, offering versatility for players who switch between genres.
One minor drawback mentioned is the controller’s light weight, which can make it feel less premium. However, its performance and button responsiveness largely compensate for this.
An Exceptional D-Pad
Arguably the most critical component of a fight pad is its D-pad, and the FCO excels in this area. Inspired by the classic Sega Saturn controller, the FCO features a circular D-pad with distinct directional buttons integrated within. This design is ideal for players who cover the entire D-pad with their thumb, allowing for both sturdy control and quick, fluid movements.
The D-pad’s accuracy is exceptional, effortlessly executing complex inputs like hadokens, shoryukens, and sonic booms in games such as Street Fighter. The responsiveness of the left analog stick also matches the D-pad’s quality, providing a solid alternative for players who prefer analog input.
Customizable for Every Player
Beyond its out-of-the-box performance, the FCO comes with a companion app that allows for extensive customization. Players can fine-tune D-pad and analog stick sensitivity and remap buttons to suit their playstyle and specific game needs. This level of personalization ensures that the controller can be optimized for any fighting game.
Conclusion: A Must-Have for Fighting Game Fans
The Hori Fighting Commander Octa (Tekken 8 Edition) for PC is a highly recommended fight pad for its excellent button responsiveness, superior D-pad, and user-friendly customization options. It offers a premium fighting game experience on PC that is hard to beat, making it a valuable addition to any serious fighting game player’s setup.
References
- https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/hori-fighting-commander-octa-tekken-8-edition-for-pc