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Mad Catz MicroCon Controller (PS2)

Mad Catz MicroCon Controller (PS2)

Written by John Yan on 11/13/2002 for PS2  
More On: Mad Catz MicroCon Controller (PS2)
Mad Catz’s MicroCon line extends to the whole range of console systems out right now and I am taking a look at the Playstation 2 version today. Previously, I reviewed the Xbox one and I really did like the feel of the MicroCon line on that console. Let’s see how the Playstation 2 controller holds up.

The Playstation2 controller is pretty small as it is and Mad Catz chopped off another 20% in size making it a pretty tiny controller. Whereas the PS2 controller’s middle area is condensed, the MicroCon controller has a larger middle area. On this large middle area are the start, select, macro, and analog toggle buttons. Elsewhere, the controller is more condensed. It’s definitely not as wide as the regular Dual Shock 2 controllers.

As far as the rest of the button and stick layout goes, the main buttons and triggers are pretty much the same. Tension and resistance from the dual analog sticks are just right giving you a good feel when using them. They aren’t too loose or too tight. Playing Grand Theft Auto Vice City, I was pretty happy at how they performed when driving various automobiles and motorcycles. Some though might have issues with the diameter of the analog sticks. They are rather tiny and large thumbs might feel uncomfortable maneuvering them.

I definitely like the triggers and button feedback better than Sony’s controller. The triggers and the buttons offer very good feedback when pushed. They feel solid and well built. The spring gives a very nice return when pressed. All in all, I was very happy with the way all the buttons felt.

The D-pad seems a little too stiff on the unit and I hope it loosens up the more I use it. As much as I like responsive buttons and pads, the D-pad is a little too strong for my liking. Even so, it doesn’t hinder the operation of gamepad and all the games worked fine with it.
Just like the Xbox controller, the Playstation 2 controller has nice rubberized grips for ease in grip and good feel. The rubber grips allow you to hold on to the controller more easily. I always did like how they felt and I’ve always liked the way Mad Catz outfitted all their controllers with it.

The small size doesn’t hinder the motors during vibrations. Rumbles during crashes and chases in Vice City produce some solid rumbles. You can hear the motors working as it shakes the controller. Given the small size, the rumbles that it produces is very respectable.

The MicroCon Playstation 2 controller has gold contacts for a clean clear signal from the peripheral to the PS2. Like I stated in the Xbox MicroCon review, I’m not really sure if it makes any difference. Just like audio cables for me, they might allow for a better connection but I probably wouldn’t notice if they were just regular non-plated connectors.

At $19.99, the controller is nicely priced for a responsive and well-made controller featuring macro programming. The smaller size might appeal to some while those with bigger hands should stick to the regular PS2 controller. I’ve really been impressed with the past few offerings from Mad Catz and the MicroCon Playstation 2 controller continues to strengthen the strong line of third party peripherals from Mad Catz.

Good button response, macro programming, and a lightweight feel is what you’ll get if you decide to purchase the MicroCon for the Playstation 2. It’s pretty small so large hands stay away.

Rating: 8.4 Good

* The product in this article was sent to us by the developer/company.


About Author

I've been reviewing products since 1997 and started out at Gaming Nexus. As one of the original writers, I was tapped to do action games and hardware. Nowadays, I work with a great group of folks on here to bring to you news and reviews on all things PC and consoles.

As for what I enjoy, I love action and survival games. I'm more of a PC gamer now than I used to be, but still enjoy the occasional console fair. Lately, I've been really playing a ton of retro games after building an arcade cabinet for myself and the kids. There's some old games I love to revisit and the cabinet really does a great job at bringing back that nostalgic feeling of going to the arcade.

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