Just after the release of the Xbox Series X and S consoles, Razer revealed the Razer Wolverine V2 Wired Controller. Made to work seamlessly with the new Xbox consoles, the controller is simply an updated version of the previous Razer Wolverine controller, which worked with Xbox One consoles.
Design
The first thing you’ll notice is the change in the design of the controller from its predecessor. Where the Wolverine V1 had sharper edges and looked more like an Xbox controller, the Wolverine V2 has more rounded edges and a curved design, that looks rather similar to the Razer Raiju PS4 controller.
Beyond the new look design, the Wolverine V2 is similar to other Xbox controllers in terms of button layout and spacing, making it easy for gamers familiar to Xbox controllers to pick up and play with Razer’s newest controller.
However, unlike Xbox controllers, which are wireless, the Wolverine V2 does come wired, without the option to connect via Bluetooth either.
Use/Feel
As mentioned above, this controller is compatible with Xbox’s next-generation consoles, the Xbox Series X and the Xbox Series S. However, it also works with the Xbox One family of devices and Windows 10 PCs.
When using this controller, the most noticeable feature is the feel of the buttons. The Wolverine V2’s buttons, including the D-pad, almost feels like mechanical switches, with a deeper ‘click’ that really allows you to feel what you’re doing. This almost gives the controller an added advantage compared to standard Xbox controllers in that the response time appears to be a lot faster. Or, at least it certainly feels that way when I compared the difference between the Wolverine V2 and the new Xbox Series X|S controller while playing Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla.
Ergonomics wise, the controller’s new design allows for more comfort when holding the controller. The feel when holding the Wolverine V2 in your hands feels natural and fits your palms well.
The addition of a rubberised texture around the edges also allows for a firm grip and comfort while gaming for hours. The solid grip was certainly a feature I really liked as it meant that I wasn’t feeling the strain on my hands when playing games for hours on end.
Comparison to Elite Controller
Unfortunately I don’t own an Xbox Elite Controller V2 and I didn’t bring my Elite V1 with me when I moved so I can’t quite accurately compare the differences between Xbox’s Elite Controller to the Razer Wolverine V2.
However, what I can say is that the Wolverine V2 does feel very similar to how it felt using my Elite V1. The fit of the controller in my hands, the responsiveness and the fact that I can hold onto it for hours without any difficulty, were very reminiscent of my experience with the Elite V1.
The fact that the Wolverine V2 is cheaper than the Elite V2 is a huge advantage for the Razer controller too. Why pay more for a controller that does the same things?
In fact, not only is the Wolverine V2 cheaper than the Elite V2, it’s also cheaper than its predecessor, the Wolverine V1!
Downside
To be very honest, there really isn’t a downside to Razer’s Wolverine V2 controller. If at all there was a con, it would be the fact that the controller is a wired one. The controller is completely useless without the cable connecting the controller to the Xbox console or PC.
While this isn’t too much of a problem for me since the cable is reasonably long, it can be a pain if you’re someone who already has wires all over their gaming setup or has a need for a much longer cable. Depending on how your setup has been set up, you might find yourself having to sit a lot closer to your Xbox console. It also means the controller isn’t as easily portable.
Overall
The Razer Wolverine V2 Wired Controller is a welcome addition to Razer’s suite of peripherals and makes for the perfect accessory to the latest generation of Xbox consoles. If the Xbox Elite V2 controller is not in your price range, but you’re in need of a comfortable, more tactile and responsive controller for your gaming, give the Wolverine V2 a try.