KontrolFreek (Xbox 360): "FPS Freek Havoc & FPS Freek Infinity"

Sometimes the greatest things come in the smallest packages. This is a quote that definitely applies to KontrolFreek's latest controller enhancements. When the two sets of KontrolFreeks arrived at my house I was a little surprised to see how simple they were, and how small the package was that they were in. Initially I wasn't seeing the reason for the price, but as I tested them out I soon realized that they definitely warranted the cost. After reading the postcard explaining what the "FPS HAVOC", and "FPS INFINITY" were all about I set out to give them a proper testing. For about a week I spent hours in "MW3", and "HALO REACH" trying out the various modes within each game, so I could get optimal results for my final verdict. In the following paragraphs I'll go over the technical details, and descriptions of each set of KontrolFreeks.

Both the "FPS Freek Havoc", and the "FPS Freek Infinity" arrived in a small plastic container that was large enough to hold the items properly. Each set of KontrolFreeks were attached to a card inside the plastic package, and were easily removed without any problems. Accompanying the KontrolFreeks package was a company post card detailing the specifics of the set. While it did give basic details such as the fact that both sets of KontrolFreeks add an extra 1/2 inch to the (Left Thumbstick), and (Right Thumbstick) of the Xbox 360 controller it gave only a hint of what the products were really capable of. I will say that it talked about the KontrolFreeks being laser-etched, and concave in design allowing for excellent grip, and precision movement. At the bottom of the postcard was the price of each KontrolFreek set ($13.99), and the release date for when they'd be up for sale.

The first set of KontrolFreeks I tested were the "FPS Freeks Infinity" set. This set featured a hard plastic blue top with an eagle emblem, and raised bumps in the center. I had expected them to be slippery, because of the material they were made out of. Thankfully though I was wrong. After snapping these bad boys onto each thumbstick (which is a very easy task) I took them for a test run via some "MW3". In MW3's various modes I noticed a significant improvement in the quickness of my overall movement speed as well as some amplified knifing abilities. In MW3's "AoN (All or Nothing)" the aim is to use mostly your knife, and throwing knives as your main offensive weapon. During the AoN matches I participated in I was able to stab my opponents more quickly with the Infinity set on, and was able do so in rapid succession resulting in better overall performance. My K/D ratio actually improved as a result of me using these peripheral add-ons.

When it came time to test them out in "Halo Reach" I found gameplay enhancement mainly in the form of movement precision, and speed. Unlike MW3, Halo Reach does not feature the same initial controller setup with the melee attack configured to the (Right Thumbstick). Sure I could change the controller layout, but I had mine set just the way I wanted it. In Halo Reach's 'Team Slayer' I was actually able to get more kills as a result of the KontrolFreek's added perks. The other modes also gave similar results. The precision movement, and speed really gave me that extra edge when playing online.

Last, but certainly not least are the "FPS Freek Havoc". These KontrolFreeks are basically the same as the "FPS Freek Infinity" with the only exception being the material that makes them up. The Havocs are made of a soft, black rubbery material that adds a significant amount of extra grip to the controller's thumbsticks. At the center of each Havoc add-on is a series of raised, and indented ridge patterns which add to the gripping power of the design. I should also note that there is a raised skull pattern at the dead center of each Havoc giving it a more hardcore look. As far as the test with MW3, and Halo Reach goes they performed pretty much the same as the Infinity set did. In the end I think it's all about preference. If you like rubber grips then I'd go for the Havocs, but if you're not a fan of the rubber grips then the Infinity set will be your best bet.

VERDICT:

For $13.99 a set you'll be getting a heck of a deal. These KontrolFreeks were not only made here in the USA, but they were also made to be durable which is always a plus in my book. Adding either set of KontrolFreeks to your Xbox 360 controller will definitely enhance your gameplay in ways you couldn't even fathom. Now that I have my own sets I will never be removing them except to switch them out.  If you are a fan of FPS (First Person Shooter) then I highly suggest you get a set of these. They will prove to be a valuable asset in the upcoming "HALO 4", and "Call of Duty: Black Ops II" games. Also as an added bonus you'll find that these KontrolFreeks are approved for tournament play. If you are into the tournament scene then you won't have to worry about being disqualified while using either set. It's a win-win situation!

INFINITY (Oct. 9) -

HAVOC (Oct. 23) -