Best answer: Yes, Sony has confirmed a new controller in the form of the DualSense, what looks to be the next iteration in its DualShock line of controllers, though it is not called the DualShock 5.
- Current iteration: Sony DualShock 4 ($65 at Amazon)
- Coming soon: DualSense Wireless Controller ($70 at Amazon)
What can we expect from the PS5 DualSense?
Sony has already announced that the PS5 DualSense controller will feature haptic feedback technology and adaptive triggers.
First, we're adopting haptic feedback to replace the "rumble" technology found in controllers since the 5th generation of consoles. With haptics, you truly feel a broader range of feedback, so crashing into a wall in a race car feels much different than making a tackle on the football field. You can even get a sense for a variety of textures when running through fields of grass or plodding through mud.The second innovation is something we call adaptive triggers, which have been incorporated into the trigger buttons (L2/R2). Developers can program the resistance of the triggers so that you feel the tactile sensation of drawing a bow and arrow or accelerating an off-road vehicle through rocky terrain. In combination with the haptics, this can produce a powerful experience that better simulates various actions. Game creators have started to receive early versions of the new controller, and we can't wait to see where their imagination goes with these new features at their disposal.
We also know that it features a built-in mic array, USB-C, a redesigned touchpad, and a light bar, and has a two-tone color scheme. Similar to how the DualShock 4 functions, the DualSense controller will also come with a Create button, although it's unknown exactly what that will do as of now.
Alongside the changes, the DualSense controller also seems to be a bit bigger than the DualShock 4, which may end up benefitting players who will be holding the controller for long periods. We'll have to wait and see how it stacks up to the Xbox Series X Controller, but with both systems launching very soon, players won't have to wait too long to get them in their hands.
What controller does the PS4 use?
The PS4 uses the Sony DualShock 4 controller. DualShock 4 controllers are compatible with all PS4 models, even the PS4 Pro. Aside from your usual face buttons and thumbsticks, each one features a large touchpad on the front of the controller, a light bar on the top, a speaker right below the touchpad, and a share button to the left of the touchpad.
Will the DualShock 4 be compatible with the PS5 and vice versa?
While the DualShock 4 will work on the PS5, it won't work if you're trying to play PlayStation 5 games. According to Sony in a statement earlier this year, the company said that they believe that PS5 games "should take advantage of the new capabilities and features" that the console brings, including the DualSense. However, the DualShock 4 controllers and other third-party PS4 controllers will work on the console for "supported PS4 games," so you might not want to throw out any controllers just yet.
As for the DualSense's compatibility with PS4, Sony has not stated whether it will work with older hardware like Microsoft's Xbox Series X controller does.
Your PS4 buddy
The DualShock 4 may not be compatible with the PS5 when it comes out, but it's still valuable for playing your current games on PS4 or PC. Plus, there are dozens of colors so you can expand your collection.
A strong upgrade
If the DualSense represents the type of console the PlayStation 5 will be, players will be excited. Sony added important features to make gaming more immersive than ever while retaining the bright spots of the DualShock 4.
Get your hands on it before it sells out
The PS5 isn't available for preorder just yet, but a few retailers are letting fans sign up for notifications, so they don't miss out. The DualSense should hopefully make all of its upcoming games more immersive than ever before.
