Gaming controls have come a long way since the iconic Atari 2600 joystick. Along with the advent of mobile phones, tablets, and even Smart TVs, gaming has now extended its boundaries beyond consoles designed strictly for gaming. Still, the smooth non-haptic glass screens of today’s technologies are no match compared to tactile, hands-on, dedicated controllers. So, what is a competitive mobile gamer to do? Is there any gear out there that can take gaming to the next level for people who want to play on their mobile phones and other non-console devices?
I recently bought the Steelseries Nimbus+ controller (Nimbus Plus), hoping I could play my Steam for Mac collection with it. I turned it on, paired it with bluetooth, connected it witch cable. And Steam don't recognise it.
- My Nimbus works great on Fortnite Mobile (IOS). It is supposed to work with Mac too but i can't seem to get it to work property. I can look and move around, although the forward and reverse movement is backwards. None of the A, B, X, Y buttons seem to work. I have tried with Playtstation, XBox and Custom profiles.
- While the Nimbus controller is designed to work on Mac OS X, very few game developers build in MFi controller support for Mac. With MFi controllers meaning that the Nimbus is primarily designed for iOS devices. While the controller may hook up to your computer, there may be support issues in relation to playing certain Steam games.
SteelSeries Nimbus+ controller review: A fantastic choice for Apple enthusiasts, but you’ll pay for it This is the best MFi controller you can buy, but the $70 price tag makes it tough to justify. Tutorial Video: Gamepad Pairing with macOS: Xbox One Controller Astrogun games support MFi Gamepads, like the Steelseries Nimbus, and, on macOS, additional gamepads from major consoles. Here, we’ll cover pairing the Xbox One Controller with macOS to play our debut title ‘VAST – Cosmic Treasure Hunters’, available now on the macOS App.
For macOS, first, power on a charged Nimbus gamepad by moving the HOLD slider to the right. Then press and hold the Bluetooth Pairing Button to enter pairing mode. Once in Pairing Mode, all four Player Indicator lights on the front of the Nimbus will start flashing in unison. There's a range of Made for iPhone-compatible Apple-approved Bluetooth controllers available, all of which will work with the new Apple TV, but the SteelSeries Nimbus is the only controller that.
The SteelSeries Nimbus+ aims to be your go-to game controller for this digital arena, when it comes to Apple devices. It is designed specifically to work with iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and MacOS. (For Windows and Android users, SteelSeries makes the Stratus Duo to work with your platform.)
How well does it do? Will it improve your gaming? Is it worth the money? Let’s find out.
First Impressions
The Nimbus+ wireless gaming controller is the updated and improved version of the Apple-dedicated Nimbus. Out of the box, you’ll receive the black Nimbus+ controller, which looks very much like a traditional X-Box or Playstation controller. (More on this in the Ergonomics section below.) Additionally, there is a small Quick Start guide and a well-designed, spring-loaded, adjustable-size phone holder designed to slide right into two holding ports in the controller. There is no charging cord that comes with this device, but, as this is designed for Apple products, the user is likely to have at least one charging cord as the Nimbus+ has a Lightning charging port. While it would have been nice to have a new charger included, it’s not a deal breaker and likely helped prevent the price from being higher.
The controller feels solid with a little weight, but not uncomfortably heavy. In handling this, one will notice the upgraded Hall effect magnetic triggers that feel quite responsive and surprisingly quiet. Other notable features of the Nimbus+ is the redesigned D-Pad as well as the fact that the two thumb joysticks are now clickable and have a satisfying clicking sound when pressed. The 8-way directional pad (D-Pad) is no longer disk-shaped, but cross-shaped, allowing for diagonal movements as well.
Buttons dedicated for the Options, Home, and Menu functionalities sit conveniently in the center top of the joystick. These buttons enable you to access the menu options of your Apple TV directly from your controller, rather than having to reach for the remote.
On the top of the controller are 4 dual-purpose LED lights, to let you know which player the controller is assigned to, if you have multiple controllers paired to your device. When pressing in the Battery Status button on the back, the lights also show the battery life (one light is 25%; all four lights mean completely charged). On the back is also where you will find the lightning charging port as well as the Link button that allows you to pair the controller with your Apple device.
Overall first impressions, the Nimbus+ is a great choice. There appears to be no compromise to the design. This is a full-on gaming controller that will enable you to master any mobile game without mashing the glass with your greasy thumbs.
Battery Life
The Nimbus+ claims a very impressive 50-hour battery life. That’s over two solid days on one full charge. If this isn’t enough juice for you, perhaps your mom was right about you playing a little too much.
Ergonomics & Playability
In terms of appearance, the Nimbus+ looks like what you would get if the Xbox and PS4 controllers had a baby. The body itself is very similar to the Xbox controller. However, the joystick and d-pad placement is strikingly similar to the PS4. SteelSeries has combined the best of both designs to create this streamlined controller. The slightly smaller size will be welcome in younger gamers’ hands. Unless you are King Kong, this controller should “feel right” in your hands.
As mentioned in the First Impressions section, the controller has a nice solid weight and balanced feel to it. There is a slight texture that nicely enhances the grip. It doesn’t feel plasticky or cheap. Between the long battery life and the quality design, this is definitely a controller that can be used for those long bouts no matter which game you choose.
When the spring-loaded phone holder is attached, obviously it’s going to be back-heavy when there’s a phone in the holder, especially with one of the larger iPhones. But when you’re playing, it feels well-balanced, as the center of gravity now rests just over the controller itself. The weight of the phone attached is not as fatiguing as one might have been concerned about. The phone holder holds the phone securely; you don’t have to worry about it jiggling around or falling out during play.
All the buttons, the d-pad, the joysticks, and the Hall effect magnetic triggers all work remarkably well. The tension is just right where it needs to be, movements are fluid and consistent, and there is solid clicking feedback throughout. There are almost no dead zones in the centers of these joysticks. There also seems to be no lag between the controller and the device, so your play is as responsive as you need it to be. The action of this controller is among the best out there, giving gaming console controllers a run for their money.
Overall Impression & Rating
If you like to game on your Apple device, this is, without a doubt, a must-have and necessary addition to your gaming gear. You will wonder how you lived without it. For those of you who currently pair your Xbox controller with your iOS 13+ device, even you may want to give these a go. In addition to the well thought improvements in design over the original Nimbus, you should remember that this device was created specifically for Apple devices. At a retail price of $69.99, the price might, at first, seem a little high. However, you are paying for quality and for an Apple-specific controller, not a hack or something generic. The Nimbus+ can certainly hold its own against any other controller out on the market today and, in fact, may very be the best currently out there. Overall, the SteelSeries Nimbus+ is a perfect 10 out of 10. Don’t think twice… go to https://steelseries.com, get yourself a Nimbus+, and get gaming… You will NOT be disappointed!
Even though Mac is not a hardcore gaming OS, there are some exciting games to play. Gaming Keyboards and Mouse are okay to deal with, but nothing can replace the comfort of playing with a Game Controller on your Mac. The additional comfort is that you can lay down cozily in your Couch while you enjoy the game.
A thing to note with gaming controllers is their design. No matter how pro you are in a game, but if you aren’t comfortable with your controller, you are likely to lose the battle. If you are going through this trouble, better have a look at some of the best gaming controller for Mac we have handpicked down here in this list.
High-Quality Gaming Controllers for Mac in 2020
#1. Thrustmaster
While playing a game on your Mac, you need superior comfort. For more extended gaming sessions, a gaming controller has to have wide hand-rest for optimal comfort. Thrustmaster’s joystick highlights this feature. With easily accessible buttons, this controller provides you hassle-free gaming pleasure.
This gaming joystick comes with 12 buttons and five axels, which are fully programmable. If you love to play games related to civil aviation and military air strikes, this controller has a trigger for brakes and rapid fire.
USP: High-precision
Check out on Amazon
#2. Nimbus SteelSeries
Nimbus SteelSeries brings a Bluetooth gaming controller for your Mac. This MFi-certified controller gives you a real wireless console experience on your Mac and other iOS devices. Pressure-sensitive buttons allow you to play games for hours without causing finger cramp.
Once you recharge this controller, it can be used for more than 40 hours to enjoy non-stop gaming. You can use the Nimbus Companion app to explore free and paid controller-enabled games on your mobile devices.
USP: 40+ hours battery
Check out on Amazon
#3. iNNEXT
iNNEXT offers two pack retro USB super controller gamepad for your Mac. It is not Bluetooth-enabled but has five feet long cord to keep a reasonable distance between your Mac and the joypad. You can connect this generic USB controller with a standard USB port.
Sensitive buttons ensure precise control over your game. This joypad can be connected to your personal computer, Notebook, laptop, MacBook, and Android smartphones via USB OTG cable.
USP: 5-feet cable
Check out on Amazon
#4. Miadore
Bring back your childhood memories with this classic USB controller for your Mac and NES gaming. This retro gamepad is compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit computers. You can connect this controller to your Mac with a USB port.
It is effortless to plug and play this controller as it doesn’t require drivers and software. Sensitive buttons ensure precision in controlling your game.
USP: No drivers required
Check out on Amazon
Steelseries Nimbus For Macos Catalina
#5. GameSir
GameSir presents officially MFi certified gaming controller, which is compatible with all Apple products like Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and more. Make sure your device is macOS 10.6 or later. Get the best professional gaming experience for shooting, fighting, action, and sports games.
For hassle-free connectivity, GameSir offers wireless 4.0 and excellent LED crystal buttons. A notable feature of this gamepad is 256 levels of pressure sensitivity, which gives you superior gaming control.
USP: Lag-free connectivity
Check out on Amazon
#6. Urvoix
Urvoix wireless gaming controller boasts a classic design; but inside, it is packed with state-of-the-art technology to control games on Mac. This cordless controller allows you to play from 30 feet away. Simply plug and play; you are not supposed to install any driver.
You can charge this controller with a micro USB cable as it has built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The USB adapter is compatible with most emulators on Mac.
USP: Rechargeable Battery
Check out on Amazon
#7. RunSnail
RunSnail has achieved greater performance value with new features like motion controls, vibration, USB-C, and turbo functionality. RunSnail’s gaming controller is known for its broad compatibility, and this quality makes it the first choice of real gamers. This multi-compatible controller is perfect for gaming aficionados, who love to switch platforms at office and home.
A notable feature of this controller is built-in smart CPU. Its firmware can be upgraded to expand its function in the future. Enjoy its retro design and make the most of its clickable joysticks.
USP: Built-in smart CPU
Check out on Amazon
#8. Gam3Gear
With its pocket-size profile, Gam3Gear wireless gamepad controller is your perfect companion while you are playing games on your Mac. Its petite body and delicate design can be moved around like a jewelry piece. Tie the lanyard (comes in the package) to the gamepad, and you can use it as a keychain.
Fully charge this gamepad for once and enjoy your games for 20 long hours. The product is compatible with all mainstream gaming platforms like macOS, Android, and Windows.
USP: Pocket-size profile
Check out on Amazon
#9. CC&SS
CC&SS brings Mac gaming controller, which boasts super sensitive buttons. You can precisely control your game without missing any shot. With its six-feet long cord, you can play all games comfortably from your couch.
Steelseries Nimbus Mac
You are not supposed to install any driver as the controller comes with a plug-and-play feature. The design of this controller reminds you of a vintage gamepad, which you used to hold when you were a kid.
USP: Super sensitive buttons for precision control
Check out on Amazon
That’s all, friends!
Are you in the game?
Mac offers an excellent platform for gamers to play their favorite games. A controller with ergonomic design and high-quality material, you can play games for a long time tirelessly.
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Which game controller would you like to buy for your Mac? Realeight vst crack. Share your thoughts and feedback with us in the comment box.
Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.
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