X-Arcade turns PCs into arcade systems

Anyone who's wished for a quality arcade-style controller to play emulated arcade classics and fighting games on a PC should look for Xgaming's X-Arcade joystick when it launches to retail next month. Currently available for online order, this unique peripheral effectively turns a PC into a full-on arcade cabinet. The X-Arcade is a dual-joystick setup complete with 22 programmable buttons, and it's fully compatible with popular emulators. Two additional side-mounted buttons double as flipper commands, providing support for pinball simulations as well. With the appropriate adapters, the controller is also compatible with current consoles.

The X-Arcade comes bundled with a PC adapter and either a PlayStation (PS and PS2) or Dreamcast adapter, and it also includes 14 full-version Capcom classics, including Ghosts 'N Goblins, Street Fighter II, and Strider. In addition to the currently available PlayStation and Dreamcast console adapters, Xgaming plans to release adapters for the GameCube and Xbox. For PCs, the X-Arcade doesn't use a USB connector, but rather includes a keyboard pass-through cable, which has the advantage of not needing drivers.

In a hands-on test at last week's CES convention in Las Vegas, we found that the X-Arcade handled both the bundled Capcom games and emulated games surprisingly well. Quick games of Final Fight and Time Killers made it obvious that the X-Arcade does a good job of bringing the arcade experience home. The two joysticks are placed a comfortable distance apart, and the controller's response times are admirable. Plus, the X-Arcade is extremely flexible. It's possible to duel with a buddy on a PC monitor, then quickly disconnect the 22-by-12.5-by-7-inch, 10-pound device and switch it over to a PlayStation 2.

The X-Arcade can be ordered now at the Xgaming site for $199.95 with free shipping, and it should start appearing in retail locations by the end of February.