Bladepad: The Return of Handheld Gaming? (E3)

The E3 show isn’t just about what new consoles are coming or what the hottest console games will be next year. Mobile gaming has exploded in recent years thanks to the dramatic leap in graphics quality and memory capacity of pads and phones.

For so long, game apps just had simple graphics, limited options, and were thought of mostly as nice diversions. But, with more in-depth titles, more high-definition graphics and more sophisticated games being developed, one aspect of game play hadn’t changed very much at all.

The controls.

After all, we’re talking about phones and pads where you having to tap, hold or swipe. Limited options and they blocked your vision of the game screen.

Introducing, the Bladepad.

With a click of its special case, your iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iTouch or iPad Retina or Mini turns into a handheld game system.

The durable shell adds a left and right control stick, a X pad and a set of A, B, X and Y buttons. The layout somewhat resembles a classic Nintendo controller. But, it’s backlit and just snaps onto the back of your Apple mobile device.

You just slide it up and viola, you’re rocking your mobile game apps with a full-on gamepad.

Under the Hood

The Bladepad uses Bluetooth to communicate with your phone. No cables are used, though the unit does come with its own splitter cable to recharge its own long-lasting (18 hrs) battery while still recharging your phone.

Also, Bladepad designed their controller to be as quick to put away as it is to pop out and use. The controller simply slides back under your device (unless you’re connected to an iPad) and out of sight. While it does make your iPhone or iTouch a little thicker, you don’t have an extra device or cables stuffed in your pocket.

And with a click, you can disconnect the Bladepad if you need to leave it at home to recharge.

Don’t Hate the Player

If there’s anything really holding back the Bladepad, it’s the list of supported games. Their site does list a number of popular mobile titles from companies like Ezone, Pangea, Raptisoft, ODD, and Intuitive with the promise of more to come.

Currently, the Bladepad is only available for iOS devices. No word if they plan on expanding to any Android models.

Also, be aware that there is 2-4 week waiting period and this little beast will set you back $99.99. 

So, the question is – how serious do you take your mobile gaming?

Try It Out At E3

Industry folks will have a chance to try the Bladepad hands-on at the E3 Show this week. They’ll be at booth 2562 in the South Hall.