Sony Unveils Project Defiant Wireless Arcade Controller for PS5

Sony has officially announced Project Defiant, its first wireless arcade-style controller designed specifically for fighting game enthusiasts. The new controller is designed to work seamlessly with the PlayStation 5 console as well as gaming PCs, and its main target group consists of the fans of such classic titles developed for the platform as Street Fighter, providing a console-quality arcade experience at home or on the go.

Sony Announces Project Defiant: First Wireless Arcade Fighting Game Controller for PS5 and PC Launching in 2026

Additionally, Project Defiant ships with a dedicated carry case with a sling designed to protect the joystick while transporting it, which again is a nice nod to competitive players using the list for tournaments. The USB-C wired connectivity is complemented by the ability to be connected wirelessly using Sony’s low-latency PS Link technology, which was just released in 2023. However, Sony has not yet disclosed the DSLR latency details or if each player will need a separate PS Link USB adapter for multiplayer games.

The face buttons of Project Defiant use mechanical switches for responsive inputs, though their layout differs from traditional arcade cabinets. This may influence its acceptance in the competitive fighting scene. The joystick’s internal mechanism remains undisclosed, raising questions about its durability and resistance to drift over time. It does, however, support swappable restriction gates — octagonal, square, or round — to suit different gameplay preferences. Other features include a built-in power button, allowing the player to turn on the PS5 wirelessly.

Regardless, it also contains a touchpad from the DualSense controller, ensuring compatibility with modern titles. The battery life and other technical issues are still unknown. Project Defiant is expected to be released in 2026, providing the player with a decent amount of time to reconsider the move. For those eager to try this product, the wired Razer Kitsune arcade controller is a reliable alternative version that is appropriate for both PS5 and PC players. Project Defiant marks Sony’s first serious step into wireless arcade hardware — a bold move that could reshape the controller landscape for fighting games.

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