11.07.07
Review: Xbox360 ChatPad
So this is my latest gaming related purchase.. the ChatPad.
I remember when I first had to ‘type’ anything into the ‘360, feeling how awkward it was and not enjoying the experience at all. This was compounded when I played the evaluation version of Phantasy Star Universe. The interaction with other folks on-line was REALLY stilted due to my lack of a) proficiency with the point and click typing and b) knowledge of the various shortcuts people were using. It’s a shame because it actually put me off the game and I’ve not looked at it since.
Anyhoo… I was really pleased when I found out that Xbox Live and Live Messenger were to be linked together and the the ChatPad became a ‘must-have’. The installation of the Pad itself is beyond simple, it simply snaps into place at the front of the controller with connections for the audio pass through (a new head-set is included in the box too) and the data connection points. There are two little lugs on the Pad which locate into the screw holes on the underside of the controller hand-grips providing a solid link between the two.
Once in place the ChatPad, for me at least, seems to actually add to the feel of the controller. I’ve got big hands and the additional piece gives more balance to the controller and also somewhere for my little fingers to rest. The keyboard buttons are nice to use too, they give a good positive ‘click’ when pressed and are pretty well spaced out so even sausage thumbs like me can avoid the dreaded key mash. The only critical comment I’d make is that I would have like to have seen the Enter key being larger, it’s position just under the thumb joint is perfect for the quick hit but it’s size means a more deliberate approach needs to be taken.
Overall though, it’s a really nice add-on for the controller and if you do any amount of ‘typing’ on your ‘360 I’d heartily recommend it!
- Silesti
