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The mighty Sega Saturn controller was all I needed to beat my friends and neighborhood kids who challenged me.
I searched for other fight pads (as theyre called) but the choices were few and far between.
However, there is no shortage of arcade or fight sticks to choose from.
Given these factors, I decided to purchase my very first arcade stick the Mayflash F700 Elite.
In fact, it might be the best choice it’s possible for you to make.
I’ll explain why.
The Mayflash F700 Elite is an excellent choice for those looking for an overall solid arcade stick.
you’ve got the option to also customize it with different parts and even add your own artwork.
If you’re new to arcade sticks, this is an excellent option.
I can even slip in custom artwork underneath the acrylic clear panel.
you might connect viaBluetooth, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or wired.
Bluetooth connectivity isnt an option for PS5/PS4, but I dont mind using the dongle.
The headphone jack and mute button on the front are also useful.
The no-frills design, easy-to-store cable, and (relatively) light 7.6-pound weight are other factors I appreciate.
Now, lets dive into what its been like switching from a controller to an arcade stick.
That plan went out the window the instant I executed Ryus Hadouken on my first try.
I probably shouldnt be surprised that Im about 80% proficient using an arcade stick compared to a controller.
The main advantage arcade sticks have over controllers is their button layouts.
Even controllers with six face buttons (like the ones Ive purchased for decades) cant top that.
Not having to perform weird hand contortions to press certain buttons is also a plus.
Should I keep it on my lap or a desk?
My normal PS5 controller typically lasts about eight hours, so the F700 Elites endurance is certainly better.
Im still not at the point where I can pull off moves instinctively.
Everything from arcade stick motions to button presses is a deliberate act.
While this is actually helping me execute actions better, its also slowing me down.
That said, I can still hold my own in online matches.
When I lose, its because my opponent outplayed me, not because of the controller.
With each match, performing moves is slowly becoming second nature.
A new obsession
The YouTubers who recommended the Mayflash F700 Elite didnt steer me wrong.
Ive enjoyed learning how to use the arcade stick and feeling my gradual improvement during nightly practice sessions.
This is the most fun Ive had playing video games in a while.
I want to make this arcade stick truly my own!
I also want to check out other peripherals like the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha or Nacon Daija.
Perhaps Ill even try leverless controllers like theHit Box but thats a story for another day.
Im done playing fighting games with fight pads or standard controllers.
From now on, Im an arcade stick player.
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