The power of mobile processors is on the rise, spearheaded by Apple’s A-series and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips. Advancements in remote play and game streaming have breathed new life into the market for handheld mobile gaming controllers. Simply connect these controllers to your phone to enjoy a gaming experience akin to that of a Nintendo Switch or a Steam Deck.I’ve reviewed a few GameSir controllers in the past, and now its the turn of the The GameSir G8 Galileo, The G8 is a standout choice among smartphone gaming controllers, boasting features such as adjustable joysticks, button mapping, and superior ergonomics. However, whether it’s worth investing in a smartphone gaming controller may depend on your specific needs and, crucially, the quality of your smartphone.
Good Points:-
- USB-C connection.
- Three gaming modes offer versatile compatibility.
- Pass-through USB-C and 3.5mm jacks.
- Customisable controller’s faceplate.
Bad Points:-
- The ergonomic design makes it less compact..
- Your phone’s power might be a limiting factor.
- No lightening connection for older iPhones.
The GameSir G8 Galileo, a mobile gaming controller, bears a striking resemblance to an Xbox controller with your phone positioned in the center. This design can be seen as both an advantage and a disadvantage, depending your perspective. Its ergonomic design gives it the feel of a genuine console controller, which is a plus for fans of the Xbox layout. The thicker sides are more comfortable to grip as they naturally fit the contour of your hand. Regardless of your smartphone’s size, it will accommodate it. However, it’s not the best match for high-quality foldable phones, as they need to fold downwards due to the location of the USB-C connector.
GameSir prioritised functionality over aesthetics in the design of this controller, and it’s evident. If you had suggested that the G8 Galileo was an authentic Xbox Wireless Controller based on its tactile feedback and gameplay experience, I would have been convinced. The buttons and triggers exhibited a responsive and solid feel, unlike inferior buttons which can quickly become spongy and tacky.
The G8 Galileo shines in its connectivity with your smartphone, utilizing a USB-C port, eliminating the need for Bluetooth pairing or constant charging. Consequently, the G8 Galileo is compatible with both iOS and Android, as long as the iOS device is equipped with a USB-C port. The highlight of the USB-C port is its ability to swivel up and down on a hinge. This allows you to disconnect your phone by lifting it straight up, without the fear of damaging the USB-C connector, simplifying the setup process.
The G8 Galileo also features pass-through ports, a crucial element in transforming it into a portable gaming hub. It includes a USB-C port for charging your phone during gameplay, facilitating extended gaming sessions. Additionally, it has a 3.5mm jack that can be utilized for earbuds, speakers, or even a comprehensive headset. The G8 Galileo combines the functionalities of a controller, charger, and 3.5mm jack, all with the low latency of a wired connection. This significantly outperforms competitors that depend on Bluetooth for one or more of these features.
It’s not often that a product surprises me upon unboxing, but the inclusion of additional joysticks certainly did. Indeed, you can easily remove the faceplate with your fingernail and replace the joystick. There’s no need for soldering or any technical expertise. It’s as straightforward as extracting the old joystick and inserting the new one. This feature, especially at an £80 price point, is quite impressive and allows for a highly personalized experience. Coupled with two supplementary buttons and the ability to customize mappings, this controller offers excellent customisation options.
The ergonomics and robust build quality of the G8 Galileo do compromise its portability. With a thickness of 2.13 inches and a length of 8.54 inches, it’s bound to occupy a significant amount of space in your bag. There are smaller phone controllers available for those who value portability. However, in my opinion, the benefits offered by the G8 Galileo more than compensate for its size.
While the G8 Galileo is impressive, it’s crucial to note that the effectiveness of this controller is contingent on the quality of your smartphone. This device enhances your gaming controls, but it doesn’t necessarily amplify your overall mobile gaming experience. In my tests, the G8 Galileo performed well across the board, but its use with my Galaxy Fold was somewhat restrictive. The smartphone had a hard time handling Fortnite, while less demanding games like Asphalt 9 and Call of Duty: Mobile fared better, allowing the Galileo G8 to truly excel. Before purchasing a gaming controller, consider the games you intend to play on your phone, as their performance requirements could significantly influence your experience.
Although I didn’t have the opportunity to test it on the G8 Galileo personally, cloud streaming could potentially be the perfect application for this controller. It allows you to enjoy top-tier games using a superior controller, without the concern of your smartphone’s performance affecting the gaming experience.
Conclusion:-
While the GameSir G8 Galileo alone can’t transform your phone into a device that surpasses a console or a high-end gaming PC, it can enhance one facet of the gaming experience and equip your smartphone with additional peripherals. Thanks to its ergonomic design and pass-through ports, the G8 Galileo can effectively convert your smartphone into a gaming hub, complete with a power source and headset connection. However, to truly reap its benefits, you’ll need a smartphone robust enough to smoothly run the mobile games you love.
The GameSir G8 is available from Amazon and GameSir for around £8