At CES 2024 almost a year ago, we discovered the MSI Force Pro Wireless controller. Positioned at the top end of the market, we were lucky enough to receive a limited version, technically identical to the classic version, but with a STALKER 2-themed design. MSI is taking advantage of the launch of this game to offer a range of products based on this theme. At the top of the range is the RTX 4070 Ti Super STALKER 2 edition, followed by a keyboard, mouse and controller, all of which receive the Heart of Chernobyl treatment.
The MSI controller in video
In this version, the controller is obviously a unique collector’s item for fans of the game. The quantities available will be extremely limited. At the time of writing, the controller is not yet available in Europe.
The Force Pro Wireless STALKER 2 Edition in detail
The MSI Force Pro Wireless STALKER 2 Edition comes with a carrying case that houses a wireless dongle. The controller features a modular architecture that allows users to customise the experience to suit their tastes. The analogue sticks and directional cross are interchangeable. The components are easy to attach, with no need for screwdrivers or other complications. Our version therefore features replaceable joystick modules, a magnetic metal directional cross cover and an additional replaceable top cover.
Importantly, this controller is certified for the Xbox console (wired connection only) and offers a versatile 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth and USB-C connection for other platforms, including Windows 10/11, Android, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One… Finally, a code for the game is also included with the controller and its USB-C cable.
Surgical precision thanks to hall-effect sensors
Where MSI breaks new ground is by integrating Hall-effect sensors for the triggers. Unlike conventional potentiometers, these sensors eliminate the problem of drift, offering durability and extremely high precision.
Adjustable triggers, guaranteed immersion
Trigger travel can be adjusted in three stages, allowing gamers to modulate pressure to suit the type of game they’re playing. This is an important detail that means you can switch from a car racing game to fps with just a few adjustments. As well as the usual XYBA buttons, there are also four additional buttons on the back, similar to those on the Xbox Ultimate controller.
In use:
If you’re not fixated on RGB, you can count on 48 hours of gameplay without putting too much strain on it thanks to its 1000 mAh lithium-ion battery. Particularly comfortable in everyday use, the Force Pro Wireless weighs 275 grams and measures 148 x 111 x 68mm. Its level of customisation is really interesting, including with its software.
Getting started:
For the controller to be detected by the application, you’ll first need to connect it to your PC via a cable, and you’ll probably be offered a new firmware, as in our case. The application is simple, with 5 tabs.
- The 1st tab is called info, and lets you calibrate the controller for better gameplay.
- The 2nd tab is called mapping, and lets you configure the controller’s palettes.
- The 3rd tab is called vibration, and helps us adjust the vibrations coming from the four zones of the controller (bottom right and left and top right and left).
- The 4th tab is called stick, and lets us choose how we’d like the joysticks to behave (more like fps, fighting games, racing games, etc.).
- The last tab is called trigger, and lets us choose the depth of the trigger (depending on the mode chosen on the back of the controller).
To conclude this overview:
In my opinion, the MSI Force Pro Wireless is a very comfortable controller for gaming. In particular, its grip is excellent. Its originality is also an argument in favour of all these special features. The fact that you can change part of the shell, the directional cross and the joysticks all give the controller a unique feel. And, of course, its exclusive design is the crowning touch. To get an idea of the price, we had to scour extra-European sites to find prices between €165 and €175.
