Backbone One Review: The Ultimate Controller for PS & Steam

“Backbone One” is a controller that transforms your smartphone into a full-fledged gaming console.
It supports PS Remote Play and Steam Link, allowing for a console-like gaming experience anywhere you go.

“I want to improve the controls for my mobile games…”

In this article, we provide a thorough explanation of the appeal of the “Backbone One.”
We have compiled all the information you need to know before purchasing, from pros and cons to compatible models and setup instructions.
Reading this article will help you determine whether the “Backbone One” can level up your gaming life.

For the purpose of writing this article, we received the product from Backbone One. (Titles omitted)
Furthermore, in accordance with our content production policy, we strive to provide fair and impartial reviews.

The new gaming experience created by “Backbone One”

For those who want to seriously enjoy mobile games, the “Backbone One” is the optimal choice.
Especially for users who frequently utilize PS Remote Play, the ability to experience console-like gameplay anywhere is a major appeal.

A revolution in mobile game control

The “Backbone One” is a device that provides a console-like control experience just by attaching it to your smartphone.
Complex or delicate operations that were difficult with touch controls can be performed more intuitively and accurately using the “Backbone One.”

Let’s look at the controls specifically.

Item	Description
Buttons	Satisfying physical buttons that allow for precise input
Analog Sticks	Responsive sticks that enable delicate control
Grip	Ergonomic design that is easy to hold and prevents fatigue during long play sessions

By using the “Backbone One,” the control of mobile games is dramatically improved, allowing you to deepen your immersion in the game.

Compatibility with PS Remote Play

The “Backbone One” excels in its integration with PS Remote Play, making it a major draw that you can comfortably enjoy PS5 games while on the go.

The recommended communication environment is as follows:

Item	Recommended Value
Wi-Fi Connection	At least 5Mbps
For more comfortable play	15Mbps or higher

By using PS Remote Play with the “Backbone One,” you can enjoy PS5 games anywhere, with a feeling similar to the PlayStation Vita.

A new era of mobile gaming

The “Backbone One” is a device that expands the possibilities of mobile gaming and provides a new gaming experience.
Since it also supports services like Steam Link, it is possible to enjoy PC games anywhere.

The environment surrounding mobile games is evolving every day.

Service	Description
Xbox Game Pass	Unlimited access to many games for a monthly fee
GeForce NOW	Enjoy PC games in the cloud without needing a high-spec PC
Steam Link	Play your home PC games on your smartphone

By combining these services with the “Backbone One,” you can enjoy various games regardless of location.

Come on, get a “Backbone One” and experience the new era of mobile gaming!

“Backbone One” review

If you want to enjoy mobile games more seriously, the “Backbone One” is a must-check.
You can have a console-like experience anywhere.

Design and usability

The “Backbone One” is a game controller that you attach by sandwiching your smartphone.
It features an extendable holder on the left and right sides, making it compatible with various sizes of smartphones.

The main unit can be folded compactly, making it convenient for carrying around.
It is lightweight at approximately 138g, so you won’t get tired even during long play sessions.

Compatibility with iPhone and Android

The “Backbone One” is available in a Lightning model for iPhones and a USB-C model that supports Android smartphones and the iPhone 15 series.
You can choose the one that matches the port on your smartphone.

Item	Lightning Model	USB-C Model
Compatible Models	iPhones with Lightning ports (iPhone 14 series and earlier)	iPhone 15 series and major Android smartphones
Features	Control optimized for iPhone	Supports smartphones with the latest USB-C port
Other		The Android version only officially supports PS Remote Play via the PlayStation Edition

Possibilities expanded by the dedicated app

The “Backbone One” comes with a dedicated Backbone app.
By using this app, you can easily launch and manage games, coordinate with friends, and more.

Also, because you can easily record and stream your games, it is recommended for those who want to share their gameplay.
The Backbone app is also used to update the controller’s firmware.

Comfortable control

The “Backbone One” is designed based on ergonomics and is characterized by being comfortable even during long gaming sessions.
You can feel the attention to detail in everything from the placement and feel of the buttons to the operation of the sticks.

It is particularly well-suited for PS Remote Play, allowing you to comfortably play PlayStation games on your smartphone.

Changes in the gaming experience

By using the “Backbone One,” the mobile gaming experience changes significantly.

Item	Touch Controls	When using “Backbone One”
Control	Complex operations are difficult, frequent input errors	Dramatically improved, precise control possible
Immersion	Low	High
Playable Games	Games optimized for touch	Controller-compatible games, PS Remote Play, cloud gaming, etc.
Battery Consumption	High	Low (Controller itself requires no battery)

For example, in FPS games like APEX Mobile, you can perform movements, aiming, and shooting more intuitively and accurately.
By using physical buttons and analog sticks, your success rate for things like headshots, which were difficult with touch controls, will significantly increase.

The “Backbone One” is a powerful device for enjoying mobile games more seriously.

The pros and cons of the “Backbone One”

If you are thinking about wanting to enjoy mobile games more comfortably and seriously, the “Backbone One” is one of the optimal choices.
However, when considering a purchase, it is important to understand not only the pros but also the cons.

Excellent portability

The biggest benefit of the “Backbone One” is its excellent portability.

Because it can be folded compactly, it is convenient for carrying around.

Item	Description
Size	Folded: 17.6cm wide, 9.4cm long, 3.3cm thick
Weight	138g
Other	Expandable holder compatible with various smartphones

You can enjoy serious gaming anywhere, such as during commutes to work or school, breaks at a café, or while traveling.
Since a dedicated carrying case is also sold, you may want to consider purchasing one if you want to carry it more safely.

Price and warranty

You can use features such as connecting to PCs and tablets, as well as functions to save, edit, and share high-quality videos with cloud storage.

Recommended for these people

The “Backbone One” is recommended for the following people:

Thank you for reading until the end!

• Product prices, information, etc., are based on information at the time of writing the article.
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This article was originally written in Japanese and has been translated.