Backbone’s competition on the iPhone is improved by the Razer Kishi V2 controller
Following the Android-only Kishi V2 launch in July, the Razer Kishi V2 for iPhone is now available for $99.99. This is the company’s second generation of iOS controllers that resemble the Nintendo Switch and enhance the console-like experience of mobile gaming.
There are a few advantages if you decide to upgrade from the original Razer Kishi or iOS controller. If you prefer playing more complicated games, you can remap two new multi-function shoulder buttons in the Nexus app (Razer’s own gaming hub). There is also a dedicated button that will launch the Nexus app, though its ability to handle iOS integration is still unknown given that Apple doesn’t permit native app streaming.
Aside from phone and connection compatibility, the Android and iOS Kishi V2 designs are remarkably similar. This means that the Kishi V2 for iOS has the same drawbacks as the Android version, such as awkward buttons and a lack of a 3.5mm audio connection for users who prefer direct headphone connectivity. Both the iOS and Android variants are 3.6 x 7.1 x 1.3 inches and 4.3 ounces in size and have identical buttons and thumbstick functionality.
Speaking of buttons, these were designed to resemble the haptic microswitch controls found on the Wolverine V2 console controller, another product from Razer. In our evaluation of the Kishi V2 for Android, we remarked that while the mechanical buttons on the Wolverine V2 wowed, they are less impressive on the Kishi due to the smaller controller’s lack of travel.