PDP announces REALMz collectible controllers at Gamescom 2023, and they look awesome

Jun 03, 2023

There’s a Sonic in my controller

TechRadar Gaming is reporting live from Gamescom 2023 on the latest and greatest developments in gaming and hardware.

Controller manufacturer PDP is at Gamescom 2023 and introducing its REALMz lineup of collectible headsets and controllers.

REALMz is a brand new set of controllers from the brand, and what sets them apart from the best Nintendo Switch controllers and best Xbox controllers is that each REALMz pad and headset features a collectible figure, embedded behind the see-through casing.

Controllers and the Sonic the Hedgehog headset will be available to pre-order from August 25. On Nintendo Switch, buyers can choose from a wired ($39.99) or wireless option ($59.99). The REALMz Wired Headset for Nintendo Switch will also cost $39.99. Meanwhile, an Xbox variant of the REALMz controller will set you back $49.99. UK and Australian pricing haven’t been announced.

So far, PDP has partnered with Sega, Hasbro, and Nintendo for controllers and headsets featuring characters from Sonic the Hedgehog, Transformers, and Pikmin 4 respectively. “The biggest feature with REALMz is the collectible,” explained Michael Lai, PDP director of product marketing. “We’re trying to merge collectability with gaming, which is why we came up with REALMz.”

The prospect is a decent fit for PDP, who have prior experience in gaming collectibles and toys-to-life gaming, being the manufacturer behind the Disney Infinity figurines from a few years back. The brand “also created some of the first Nintendo DS styluses, back in the day,” CEO Brad Wildes added.

The REALMz controllers and branding are clearly aimed at a younger audience, and their relative affordability should make them decent gift options for younger gamers. Though I must say, I’m very partial to those Sonic controllers, especially the Knuckles one.

We believe that these controllers could become one of the best Nintendo Switch accessories, but if you're looking for more ways to enhance your setup you might want to look at the best Xbox Series X accessories and the best PS5 accessories.

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Rhys is Hardware Writer for TechRadar Gaming, and has been part of the TechRadar team for more than two years. Rhys has a strong love for all things gaming, including everything from triple A blockbusters to hidden indie gems. For Rhys, the highlights of the work are being able to test out top-notch gaming hardware, from controllers and headsets to VR and beyond. When he's not on the clock, you'll usually find him logged into Final Fantasy 14 and Sea of Thieves. Or taking massive Ls in Mario Party Superstars.

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