The new SteelSeries Stratus XL certainly looks like a worthy stocking stuffer for any iOS gamer. This is the first full-sized console-style gaming controller designed for iOS devices such as the iPad, iPod touch and iPhone, and it’s available now on Apple.com. Check out the press release below for more details and you have my permission to drool at the screenshots:
SteelSeries, the global gaming peripherals leader, today announced the Stratus XL, the first full-sized console-style gaming controller designed for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch, is available now. With the Stratus and Stratus XL gamers will have a console-style experience and choice of controller that they desire. Introduced earlier this year, the SteelSeries Stratus was one of the first wireless controllers to come to market for gaming on iOS devices. Its pocket-sized form factor brought a better-controlled and more immersive experience to iPhone and iPad gameplay.
With the new Stratus XL, gamers now have the option to play games with a wireless controller that is small and portable or one that is full-sized. The Stratus XL mirrors the familiar, comfortable size and layout of console controllers and features a pressure-sensitive directional pad (D-pad), four pressure-sensitive action buttons and a total of four shoulder buttons, including two pressure-sensitive top shoulder buttons and two analog bottom trigger buttons. In addition to dual analog sticks, the Stratus XL includes a dedicated pairing button to connect to iOS devices via Bluetooth. Powered by AA batteries, the Stratus XL will deliver an estimated 40 hours of gameplay.
“We are excited for the advancements that Apple has brought to mobile gaming and we are doubling down our bet on its future with the introduction of the Stratus XL for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch,” said Ehtisham Rabbani, SteelSeries CEO. For gamers who are looking for that full-sized controller experience on their iPhone or iPad, the Stratus XL operates with hundreds of compatible titles including the new FIFA 15 Ultimate Team as well as Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Limbo, Transworld Endless Skater, Crimsonland HD, Wayward Souls, Minecraft, Oceanhorn and more.
The SteelSeries Stratus XL is available now at the Apple Online Store (www.apple.com) and at Apple stores for $69.99.
