Who should buy an arcade stick for Xbox One?
Who should buy an arcade stick for Xbox One?
Why use an arcade stick for fighting games?
The reason why arcade stick controllers are great for fighting games is because they are modern takes on the original type of input used for the genre, in an arcade. A joystick and a handful of buttons has been the go-to control scheme for beating the snot out of opponents since the very first Street Fighter, and for the most part, that hasn't changed, at least when it comes to playing at a high level. Most competitive players will opt for an arcade stick since it's what they're used to and because it's arguably the most responsive way to control your character in-game.
A regular controller will work, but if you're looking to seriously get into competing in fighting games, you should pick up an arcade stick controller. It will provide an edge in gaming.
Why Razer Atrox is our pick for best arcade fight stick
While there are many arcade stick options out there, the best one for Xbox One players is the Razer Atrox. The main reason why is because it ships with Sanwa buttons and an eight-way Sanwa joystick, which are considered to be the best of the best when it comes to arcade stick controller components. In addition, it also comes with two extra buttons, which is great if you wear some of them down over time through vigorous playing.
If you like to add personal touches to the controls or want to add a custom artwork plate to the controller's face, the Atrox has got you covered. Razer designed the Atrox with modding in mind by making it easy to disassemble and reassemble the various pieces of the controller. This means you can add your custom elements much easier than you can with other controllers. Lastly, it even has an internal storage compartment that you can use to store your modding tools, as well as extra parts or other items.
For other arcade sticks we recommend, make sure to check out our list of the best of them.
Our pick
Dominate the competition
Featuring top-of-the-line Sanwa controls, a sleek look, an internal storage compartment, and mod-friendly design, the Razer Atrox is the best of the best when it comes to arcade stick controllers.
You don't have to spend hundreds of dollars to get a decent arcade stick, however.
Alternative option
A great entry-level controller
While it isn't as top-notch as the Razer Atrox, the Mayflash F500 is still an excellent arcade stick controller that's perfect for people looking to get into playing fighting games competitively. And it costs much less.
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Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he's been an avid fan since childhood. He's been writing for Team WC since the summer of 2017, and you'll find him doing news, editorials, reviews, and general coverage on everything gaming, Xbox, and Windows PC. His favorite game of all time is probably NieR: Automata, though Elden Ring, Fallout: New Vegas, and Team Fortress 2 are in the running, too. When he's not writing or gaming, there's a good chance he's either watching an interesting new movie or TV show or actually going outside for once. Follow him on X (Twitter).