When it comes down to controllers, some gamers may be very picky when replacing theirs or even upgrading. For the longest time I’ve been a faithful fan of the standard stock Xbox 360 controller. The controller just has it’s own feel too it. It’s like wearing the same brand shoes over and over, I’m used to it. They never let me down and seldom does the feel change.

I went straight into this review, ready and willing to try this Razer Onza Tournament Edition out. I’ve heard so much about it, and I could not wait to get my hands on it to take it for a spin. Took it for a spin I did! Let’s get down to it shall we.

Ratings

• Overall: 4.25/5
• Price:     3.75/5
• Quality: 4.25/5
• Ease of Use: 4.75/5

Look & Feel

The Onza has a distinct feel to it, almost like an anorexic controller. While it may look bulky, it is not, in fact the Onza is remarkably light. The controller fits spaciously between your hands while the button layout is not restricted in any way. The addition of two extra shoulder buttons does give you the challenge of having to remember the new buttons, along with whatever purpose you designated them as.  That’s right; this controller is made to have the buttons remapped for user preference. An added bonus I was unaware of when taking on this controller. The A, B, X, and Y buttons are almost flush with the controller body, making those button presses almost instant, for a fast, tactical response. These buttons are also back-lit and bright, easily seen in the dark.  The Direction pad, though different looking than what we may all seem used to, is also on the quick response. The D-pad also seems  flush to the body, but not without cause.

The Right and Left analog sticks seem raised just a tad than the standard Xbox 360 controller. That is a good thing as they are just the right height in correspondence to the other buttons on the controller. The sticks are also designed to be loosened or tightened at the user’s discretion. The Onza’s triggers are what caught my attention, the main triggers seeming to have an extension to them, almost making them look like actual triggers. Top that with button remapping and you can come up with a very lethal combination. The only con I could find about the look of this controller was the placement of the Start and Back buttons. But seeing how these buttons are seldom used anyways, it is not that big a con.

The Onza has a 15 foot cable to it, connecting to the Xbox 360 by USB. This cable is lightweight and braided. So it’s a tough cable, with an Inline Quick Release feature for those with a lot of action going on in their gaming area.

Play

I used this controller on a select number of games, to get a ideal of how it would operate under different gameplay. While this controller is lustful for the shooter, I would not say it is a necessity for the Driving genre.

While using the Onza playing the third person shooter I found the controller to come in very useful as in most third person games, Gears of War being one, rapid response is a must. Gears of War is a fast paced game, with many frantic moments. Accompany that with the Onza, you cannot go wrong.  With the correct button remap (if warranted) you can increase your game significantly using the Onza.

I also used the Onza for some first person shooter action, and as expected, the controller did not let me down. Although it did seem that maybe pressing in on the analog stick seemed unresponsive at times. I did find however, a quick button remap, and the issue was solved, along with improved gameplay.

I am a fan of the button remap. As it is new to me, being a standard controller only gamer, this feature does not seem like it will get old, ever. Couple that with a sleek, irresistible controller that has many features,  you just cannot go wrong  giving this bad boy a shot. All in all I had a great time with the Onza. Only a few cons to go with the many, many pros I have found with this Razer product. Coming from a substantial user of the standard Xbox 360 controller, by substantial I mean I have a drawer fool of them, I recommend the avid gamer to give the Onza the shot it deserves. 

The Razer Onza Tournament Edition retails for 49.99 USD at the Razerzone.com

Comments

xT101x 30-04-2012, 18:41

mmmmmm yummy

evilchris2003 30-04-2012, 18:45

can haz please?

Markie Rustad 30-04-2012, 18:46

 I love my Onza so much! Totally worth a try

Dan 30-04-2012, 18:50

Hmmm seems interesting I might have to pick one up.

Hunter Leonidas Soup Campbell 30-04-2012, 18:56

me personaly have only played on normal controllers but have to give this one a try looks nice 

Jessica 30-04-2012, 19:01

I’ve been meaning to try out the Onza for a while, this review just gives me another reason to.

Adam Leonard 30-04-2012, 20:02

Reads like a review that is heavily geared towards pleasing the sponsor…

ChelseaWrecker 30-04-2012, 22:20

Great review! I want one

Ashweee x 01-05-2012, 19:24

I hear about this controller often! I’ll have to try it out sometime.

TAO Devil 02-05-2012, 09:15

Might have to invest in one of these bad boys now.