Recently, a Sony patent for a touchscreen controller for PlayStation with custom layouts was discovered. The patent has made headlines because of its features. While it may seem like a decent idea on paper, there are potential issues that could hinder this concept if it becomes a reality when PlayStation 6 arrives. One of those issues is the possibility of replacing the physical controllers.
What Exactly Is The Touchscreen Controller Patent?
The main goal of the controller is to replace all physical button input layouts with digital touchscreens. Players can customize layouts, and the controller can detect the user’s hand grip to adjust them automatically. The controller will also support user identification via fingerprint. Additionally, it can detect multiple input types like tap, press, pinch, swipe, touch, and joystick inputs.
The Issue Of Having A Touchscreen Controller For PlayStation
One of the issues this controller will face is the lack of feel that a physical controller brings. I like the feel of moving my analog stick or pressing the button to perform any action on my character. While the patent mentions that the controller can detect pretouch (i.e., it will detect the finger approaching the surface before the physical contact is made). That concept will be tested to prove its usefulness.
There’s also the concern of players who prefer using the controller for esports competitions. For example, while many fighting game players prefer the fighting stick, there are also those players who are comfortable using the controller and improving their skills with the controller only.
What Is The Solution?
If Sony does go through with this, the solution is to provide the touchscreen controller as an alternative to the physical controller. The touchscreen controller will provide accessibility for people with disabilities, as they can customize the layout according to their preference. Or, even better, give the best of both worlds with a hybrid controller that has both physical and digital inputs and see how it does in the market.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, it’s important to note that there are plenty of patents that companies file that remain only as a concept. The reason there is concern about the touchscreen controller for PlayStation is because of the rise of digital media and the slow fading of physical media in gaming. With the cost of consoles and games rising, there is no telling what the future holds. One day, we’ll just have to adjust to an all-digital next-gen gaming console and say goodbye to physical disks.
Until that day comes, it’s important to raise concerns about a potential tech that might flop because it’s not what the gamers wanted. Besides, a wise man once said, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
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