When is an Xbox controller more than just an Xbox controller?
Traditionally, the mouse and keyboard combo has been the main control system used for PC gaming, particularly for first-person shooters and strategy games. Today, it still enjoys that role, but it's also true that for a while various names in the gaming world have been pushing controllers too.
Steam, for example, has its Big Picture mode, which is designed to be navigated with a gamepad. And Microsoft, of course, endowed Windows with Xinput, making it possible to use an Xbox 360 controller with its PC operating system, and it's this controller that has become pretty much standard for PC gamers these days.
Thankfully, then, the Speedlink Torid supports Xinput, so if you have a game that supports Xbox gamepads, then this wireless one will work just fine. Plus it mimics the physical design of the Xbox pad well, meaning it's comfortable to hold, with the analogue sticks, d-pad and buttons all where you'd expect them to be. It doesn't feel exactly the same as the official Xbox controller, but in a blind test, we doubt most people could tell the difference.
However, the Torid, while functioning as a competent clone of an Xbox controller, is actually much more than that, and it packs a few extra features in. For a start, it doesn't only support Xinput; it also works with Directlnput, which is handy for older games, as well as other titles that don't support Xinput. It also means it's compatible with the PlayStation 3, and the Speedlink button in the centre of the controller functions like the PS button on a PS3 controller. This button is also responsible for switching between the Xinput mode and the Directlnput, as well as acting as the Games For Windows menu button and the menu button for Steam's Big Picture mode.
As well as this useful versatility, the Torid also comes with a Turbo function, so you can temporarily set buttons to emulate rapid, repeated presses when pushed and held. This works as advertised, but whether you'll find any use for it depends on what kinds of games you play.
As a wireless device, you do of course have to consider its battery life. It charges up via a mini-USB cable (included), and the 600mAh battery should apparently give you up to ten hours of playing time before needing a recharge. We didn't try to verify this claim, but we can say we charged it once, and over the course of a few days and several light gaming sessions, it didn't once need a recharge.
The addition of Bluetooth connectivity would be welcome, especially because it would make the Torid compatible with mobile devices, but the nano-USB receiver that comes with the controller is small and discreet.
All in all, it's decent controller, and at around £21 from Amazon, it comes at a good price too. An official wireless Xbox controller would require you to also buy a USB receiver, and the combined cost of those would be around £40 at least.
Bearing that in mind, it's easy to recommend the Torid controller. It's affordable, looks good and its comfortable design is also commendable. If you looking to cut the cord when it comes to your PC gaming, the Speedlink Torid may well be just what you're looking for. Anthony Enticknap
A versatile controller that can also he used with the PS3.