FRAGnStein mouse and thumbstick controller gives FPS precision on PlayStation 3
Written by Alexis M. (Rivithed)
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Want to gain the upper hand and precision controls on PlayStation 3 FPS games? FPS gamers, the FRAGnStein is what you'll need. The FRAGnStein controller from Bannco is a combination of the DUALSHOCK 3 controller with the precision of a 2000 counts per inch (CPI) sensitive mouse.
It's a completely wireless solution, which works with an included USB receiver. That makes the FRAGnStein much easier to move around and handle than other dual PS3 mouse and thumbstick controllers on the market. If you're a serious FPS gamer that wants the most control and precision in games like Call of Duty: World at War, Modern Warfare, MAG, Killzone 2 and more, you'll want to break out the FRAGnStein.
In its form factor, the FRAGnStein packs all the functionality of the DUALSHOCK 3 controller, including SIXAXIS motion control, should you want it. This isn't just a standard mouse. Just about every FPS game on the PS3 system doesn't support a standard mouse. That's why Bannco has designed this PS3 controller in a mouse form. The Left Grip features the thumbstick, D-pad, L1, L2, PS/power button and Select button. The mouse features R1, R2, Start/Power button, F function key, a fully functional scroll wheel, and 4 PS buttons at the side. It'll take a little time realigning yourself with the standard DUALSHOCK 3 buttons on the left of the mouse. To me, that was one of the learning curves of this controller. But soon enough, I was definitely feeling the precision and steady aiming controls of the FRAGnStein. The mouse is weighted down and button controls feel solid. Using the scroll wheel of the mouse was great, and makes fast turns easy when you shift it to the left or right. The Left Grip controller felt sturdy and thumbstick had just the right amount of tension to it. As you can see in the
pictures of the FRAGnStein controller below, the colors are also a nice compliment to the PlayStation 3 system.
Customization is another shining point of the FRAGnStein. Load up the USB receiver on your PC and you get fully customizable controls and button assignments using the free Mapping/Configuration software from bannco.com. There's even a Firing Speed (autofire) you can set. Sensitivity adjustments can be done on the fly by holding the F button and using the scroll wheel. The many customization options will help you find that perfect fit which you can't get on just the DUALSHCOK 3 alone. Yes, your enemies are in trouble when going up against you with the FRAGnStein.
The FRAGnStein is compatible with a PC as well. If you own a PC, that greatly increases the value of the FRAGnStein. You'll be able to use the FRAGnStein on your PC games and further adapt to the control scheme. Bannco is also continuously supporting the FRAGnStein with Firmware updates and enhancements, which can be downloaded from bannco.com.
If you're coming to the PlayStation 3 platform from playing FPS games on a PC, or if you are looking for a way to hone your FPS skills on the PlayStation 3, the FRAGnStein is for you. Modern Warfare 2 and MAG are two big PlayStation 3 FPS games coming in the next months. Get yourself ready with this killer secret weapon, the FRAGnStein.
The FRAGnStein includes:
1 x Mouse
1 x Grip
1 x USB Stick
1 x Manual
2 x AA Batteries
The FRAGnStein has a suggested retail price of $79.99. Watch for it at gaming retailers, or online stores like Amazon.com. See more details at bannco.com.
Comments
This thing is HORRIBLE!!!!!! Written by DrGbits on 2009-09-17 10:17:13I used one of these and all I can say it's a FAIL!!!!!
First, the "Dpad" is in a stupid position. Especially when playing COD or any game the requires you to press the Dpad to access a radar, weapon or whatever. Very uncomfortable position.
The mouse part is very LAGGY! Too slow for the FPS games I played with it. This is NOT worth the price. Get a regular Sixaxis or one of those new MW2 controllers coming out. Or if you want a mouse type controller, get a FragFX... it is the best to use for FPS games and it has been proven to be the dominate controller on PS3.
Just my 2cents!
you're wrong Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:34:00three independant reviewers say your dead wrong.
in the PSL review it says it 'outright spanks the fragfx'
clearly you do now own the FRAGnStein and have other motivations.
I know - I do have the FRAGnStein.
there is 0 lag Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:04:26I also own a fragnstein and there is no lag
the dpad is in an excellent position as my thumb sits there natural
i agree completly with this reviewer - its bang on
DrGbits Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:34:14Hey DrGbits
This is Duane from Bannco -
if you have any problems with your FRAGnStein - return it for a complete refund.
Send me an email with your proof of purchase to
Duane Bannco
Very responsive Written by Guest on 2009-09-17 12:38:09The dpad on the FragNStein works great. Mouse isn't laggy at all. First commenter above must not have known about sensitivity settings. Just another hater.
tthat shit looks pimptastic!!! Written by Roly_Shaul on 2009-09-18 11:45:10when i get me a ps3 again im most defnitely coppin one of these!!
Give me Written by Guest on 2009-09-29 03:22:43oooo i soon as i can find a store or website that even sells one it will be mine
Where can we buy one? Written by Guest on 2009-09-30 12:15:19I dont see any on amazon.com or amazon.ca I dont see these for sale anywhere. Have they been recalled?
Written by Guest on 2009-10-01 05:38:49NO ONE has them in stock. What is going on??
If you're interested in ordering Written by Alexis M. on 2009-10-01 05:41:33The FRAGnStein may be difficult to find, as Bannco informed us it is selling out. If you're interested in ordering one, email
to request information on how you can get it directly from Bannco for the time being.
Lag misinterpreters Written by Guest on 2009-10-03 05:58:26I thought I'd mention that some people could unknowingly misinterpret hard coded turning and look speeds as lag when using a mouse.
Console game's look and aim speed are coded to be slower. In addition, the hitboxes are usually larger. There is often code to assist aiming, changetargeting recticle effect's size, and even curve bullets to assist in aiming.
Fragfx 1 and 2 owner Written by Guest on 2009-10-18 18:09:17So far I'll be honest fragfx 1 it's 2-3 out of 5 will have flaws like buttons that do not respond to normal pressure etc. I look forward to trying Fragnstein. I did a review on the fragfx's I wish you all did a review like this to show the gamers the performance of your product. I read on your forums people are having rapid fire issues in left 4 dead. They fire normal while standing still then moving they rapid fire. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhOGHhtKr84 showing micro movements in killzone.
I want one! Written by Guest on 2009-11-24 23:03:10Where can I buy one of these thing? Everywhere I look they are sold out.
Can be bought in UK... Written by Guest on 2009-11-29 23:14:17Hi,
just on purchasing the Fragnstein. If you're in Eurpoe...I've ordered mine from limexb360.co.uk. Put your name down for the next batch, they seem to be selling fast. Haven't got mine yet, should be in the door any day now, but can't wait. Looks like a decent job. Bannco seem to be honestly trying too, with all the firmware updates.
EdwinsangrE Written by Guest on 2010-01-05 05:34:38Hi,
I just bought a new one from hong kong for 2 weeks now. It's better than ordinary PS3 controller. Plus I bought also a gaming mouse pad. Now I can fight face to face with the opponent online. 4/5 Check it here: www.goldenshop.com.hk
Written by Guest on 2010-01-06 04:34:01 rocs my little world, CoD:MW2 firmware is excellent. If you're having problems with this controller then the problem excists between your tv and your sofa.
( Or you work for splitfish :P )
Frag Pro is better in my opinion Written by Guest on 2010-01-26 16:48:40Before you guys go out and hate me, I'm a retailer in Europe and we sell both items.
We have had better feedback from customers with the Frag Pro than those who buy the Stein
I don't own any but have tried both and personally prefer the ergonomics of the Frag. I'm sure some may prefer the Stein so I think it's a good thing that we're all presented with a choice here!