In the wake of previous iOS 7 compatible game controller releases from Logitech and MOGA, gaming peripheral company SteelSeries has announced its Stratus iOS 7 gaming controller. Breaking rank with Logitech and MOGA’s offerings, the Stratus does not connect directly to the iOS device, but instead connects wirelessly via Bluetooth.
Featuring console-style controls such as a directional pad, two analog sticks and four pressure sensitive face buttons, the Stratus’ Bluetooth capabilities allows connectivity for up to four controllers. The device also includes a protective cover that doubles as an extended grip.
TouchArcade spent some time with the devices, and says while the device gains high marks for it’s compatibility with any iOS 7 device, and for possessing an impressive battery life of over ten hours, the controller’s high price tag and small size are definite drawbacks. In spite of those issues, the publication still called the Stratus “without a doubt the best controller out there.“
One advantage TouchArcade noted for the Stratus was since the gamepad uses Bluetooth to connect to an iOS device, that left the Lightning port on the device free for Apple’s Lightning Digital AV Adapter. This would allow playing of games on a bigger screen, without the inherent lag found in setups that use AirPlay.
Games that support the Stratus include Dead Trigger 2, Asphalt 8: Airborne, and Bastion. Other developers are reportedly working to add support for iOS 7 controllers to their games.
The SteelSeries Stratus sells for $99.99 and is available now for pre-orders.
