Back in the day, my housemate and I invested in top-tier fightsticks, determined to experience the new version of Street Fighter as it was meant to be played, true to its arcade roots. We spent countless hours locked in fierce battles, with me often on the losing side, yet those moments remain some of my fondest gaming memories. To this day, I’ll always choose the classic stick and buttons over a controller for games like Mortal Kombat, Injustice: Gods Among Us, or Tekken. There’s something undeniably special about the raw, authentic arcade feel that fightsticks bring to the experience.
Sony it seems are big fans or the old fight stick as well as they get set to launch a new one that has one major advantage over my old one in the cupboard already, it’s wireless!.
The newly named FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick. Formerly known as Project Defiant, this is the first wireless fight stick controller designed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, and it’s packed with features for PS5 and PC players.
What is the FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick?
The FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick is a cutting-edge fight stick controller built for competitive players and casual fans alike. Designed with ultra-low latency wireless technology (PlayStation Link), it delivers high performance whether connected wirelessly or via USB-C. From mechanical buttons to customizable controls, the FlexStrike is perfect for tournaments or local game nights.
The Flexstrike connects seamlessly to your PS5 or PC using PlayStation Link technology, or through a USB-C cable. Plus, it comes with a PlayStation Link USB adapter for effortless setup.
Want low-latency audio while you play? You can connect both the fight stick and your Pulse Elite wireless headset or Pulse Explore earbuds using just one PlayStation Link adapter. It’s perfect for crystal-clear audio and voice chat on your PS5.
Customization is key with the FlexStrike. It features toolless swappable restrictor gates (square, circle, and octagon) with built-in storage to keep things tidy. There’s also a lever mode switch to adjust directional inputs and a lock button to ensure no accidental moves ruin your match.
For co-op or couch competition, the FlexStrike supports dual connections. You can link two fight sticks to a single PlayStation Link adapter, making it ideal for friendly battles or team play. And don’t worry about durability; this fight stick is built to last. With a sturdy, non-slip base, ergonomic angled surfaces, and a custom-designed digital stick, it offers both comfort and precision.
Switching between games or navigating menus is a breeze with DualSense controller compatibility, letting you keep your wireless controller connected alongside the fight stick. And when it’s time to head to a tournament, local game night, or a friend’s house, the included sling carry case makes transport easy. With a rechargeable battery, you’ll always be ready for action. The FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick at least on paper sounds like a true competitive edge.
First Look at Evo 2025 in Las Vegas
The FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick will make its debut at Evo 2025, from August 1–3, in Las Vegas. Fans can check it out at the Fight Stick Museum and the Arc System Works booth for an exclusive first look at the controller and its included carry case.
However it seems we won’t get hands on for some time as FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick launches in 2026.
