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Retro is back: the best game controllers for your iPhone

Example of an iPhone game controller

Apple has finally allowed the use of emulators in the App Store. Here are some of the best controllers for your iPhone so you can play them on the go.

On April 5, Apple updated its App Store policies, removing the policy prohibiting the distribution of emulators inside the storefront. This policy meant that gamers who wanted to use emulators had to use other methods to be able to play older games on the iPhone or iPad.

With these changes, a collection of emulators will likely appear in the App Store over time. However, hardcore gamers looking to enjoy retro gaming won't be thrilled with touchscreen gaming.

Luckily, there are many game controllers available in the market that come with key controls such as joysticks and buttons. These are elements that have been commonplace in console games for several years now.

Although they were created to give gamers the opportunity to enjoy console-based gameplay, the controllers' features will almost certainly be welcomed by retro fans looking to enhance their own experience.

There are three main formats of game controllers: a standalone controller that requires you to prop up your iPhone to play, one that includes an attachment to position your iPhone over the controller, and a controller that splits into two pieces . sections into which you then insert the iPhone. This last category is perhaps the best for portable gaming.

Next up is a collection of game controllers that you can plug your iPhone into, allowing you to play your favorite games while on the go. Earlier we talked about the best controllers — and we'll get to that soon enough.

Backbone One

Now in its second generation, Backbone One is a prime example of a game controller for an iPhone. It also offers combined hardware and software when you move your iPhone between two sections.

The controller features two analog sticks, as well as a D-Pad, four face buttons, shoulder pads and triggers, and a set of additional function buttons. It's available in both Lightning and USB-C versions, depending on the iPhone model you choose, with the latter also working with Android smartphones.

First trunk, second generation

At the bottom of each section there are two ports: a 3.5 mm headphone jack on the left side and a Lightning or USB port -C on the right for pass-through charging.

In addition to acting as a standard MFi controller, Backbone includes its own app that handles button remapping, screenshotting, and handling firmware updates. A Backbone+ subscription is available, providing discounts on Backbone products, in-game rewards, game hubs, video capture, and in-app voice and text chat, among other features.

The second generation BackBone One costs $99.99 in both USB-C and Lightning versions. The first generation models with Lightning are still available and discounted through Amazon.

GameSir G8 Galileo

Mounting a controller with a slot for a USB-C smartphone, such as iPhone 15 Pro, GameSir G8 Galileo received a very positive review from AppleInsider in January.

To address some of the shortcomings of mobile gaming, Galileo can store iPhones in a thin case that's sized better for gamers with larger hands. The button layout is reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch controllers, with classic gray and purple colors reminiscent of older consoles.

GameSir G8 Galileo

The controller is also easy to customize: the faceplates are attached using magnets, and the joysticks can be replaced with other supplied options. in the box. This can lead to a more personalized gaming experience.

The bottom features USB-C ports and headphones, and the button array includes two joysticks, four face buttons, a D-pad, shoulder bumpers and triggers, and additional function buttons. The controller even includes a calibration feature to ensure the joysticks and triggers are working optimally.

GameSir G8 Galileo is available on Amazon for $79.99.

Razer Kishi V2

Razer is one of the most famous manufacturers of gaming accessories, this extends to for game controllers for smartphones. AppleInsider previously reviewed the second-generation model with Lightning, but Razer is also releasing a USB-C version for Android that is also compatible with new iPhone models.

Carrying the Razer name and developed in collaboration with Gamevice, the Kishi V2 has a flared back to avoid the problem of large camera bumps. Plus, for the second-gen device, Razer uses the same super-fast microswitches found in its gaming controllers, meaning they're very easy to activate.

Razer Kishi V2

Using the same fairly standard layout of two joysticks, four face buttons, a D-pad, shoulder bumpers and triggers, plus a few extra buttons for macros, there's a charging port under the right controller, but no headphone jack.

The Razer Kishi V2 is available on Amazon for $79.45 for the Lightning version and $80 for the USB-C version.

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