Genki builds the most ambitious controller with an OS

The gamepad landscape has long been dominated by the humble Steam Controller, but a new contender is emerging, promising to redefine what a gaming accessory can be. Gaming accessory brand Genki is gearing up to shake things up with its latest ambition: the Manta controller, a device that doesn’t just control games, but offers an entirely new interface for interaction.

Launched on Kickstarter, the Genki Manta is being hailed as a mammoth project that synthesizes some of the most advanced features currently seen on the market. It moves beyond traditional controllers by incorporating elements from some of the best PC controllers available today, pushing the boundaries of what we expect from a gamepad.

What makes the Manta truly unique is its fusion of innovative mechanics and bespoke software. It boasts six extra mappable buttons, a vibrant 27-inch full-color screen powered by its own operating system, MantaOS. This custom software allows users to tailor profiles, fine-tune settings, and even run custom applications, offering a level of personalization previously unheard of in standard gaming peripherals.

Under the hood, the Manta leverages TMR technology, which refers to the technology behind high-precision thumbsticks. Crucially, Genki has engineered the Manta with easily adjustable thumbstick tension, a feature rarely seen and highly sought after by enthusiasts. This customization allows players to tailor the feel of the sticks to their specific preferences, potentially offering a superior, more personalized tactile experience compared to established controllers.

Beyond the customizable sticks, the controller integrates advanced feedback systems. It features Maglev Haptics, designed to deliver detailed, focused feedback directly into the palms, aiming to provide a richer sensory experience than standard rumble features. Furthermore, the face buttons utilize a novel actuation system that senses full travel, theoretically reducing latency and offering a more responsive input, reminiscent of sophisticated Hall effect switches.

Perhaps the most game-changing feature is the controller’s versatility. The Manta incorporates “on-the-fly KBM” functionality, allowing the device to transform into a full keyboard and mouse for navigating a PC. This capability echoes the innovative design philosophy of TMR controllers, enabling players to control complex systems from the comfort of any position.

The unique physical design of the Manta is another defining factor. Genki admits that its shape is unlike anything else on the market, yet many believe this distinct aesthetic translates into superior ergonomic gamepad design. This unique silhouette sets it apart, offering a new visual identity in the highly competitive accessory market.

With impressive compatibility, the Manta aims to serve a broad audience, supporting PC, Steam, Switch 1 and 2, macOS, Android, iPhone, iPad, and even the Vision Pro. While the Super Early Bird offer on Kickstarter is set at $189, generating buzz about potential final pricing, the ambition behind the Manta suggests it is poised to challenge the established norms of controller design and delivery, setting a new benchmark for what gaming hardware can achieve.