On July 28, Sony officially announced its first proprietary arcade fightstick: FlexStrike. Designed with competitive fighting game fans in mind, FlexStrike marks Sony’s debut in this niche category — and it’s aiming to make a strong first impression.
Built for both PlayStation 5 and PC, FlexStrike offers dual connectivity: wired via USB-C and wireless via PlayStation Link, Sony’s low-latency wireless technology. According to Sony, this ensures ultra-low input lag, which is crucial for precision-based gameplay in titles like Street Fighter or Tekken.
Premium Build, Tournament-Ready Design
FlexStrike features a sleek design inspired by the current generation of PlayStation hardware. Inside, it’s all about performance. The controller comes equipped with mechanical buttons for crisp, responsive input — a major plus for serious players who rely on timing and accuracy.
One standout innovation is the inclusion of interchangeable restrictor plates that guide joystick movement. Three options are included — square, circular, and octagonal — allowing players to tailor the stick’s motion to their preferred fighting style or game. These plates are easily swapped without tools and can be conveniently stored in a dedicated compartment on the back of the unit, which also houses the PlayStation Link dongle.
Image: Sony
Smart Features for Competitive Play
FlexStrike isn’t just about aesthetics or hardware specs — it’s also packed with smart features. Players can customize joystick behavior, lock button layouts to prevent accidental inputs mid-match, and toggle various control modes directly from onboard switches.
The device includes a built-in rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for disposable batteries. However, Sony has yet to release details on battery life.
Ready for the Road
To complement the FlexStrike, Sony has developed a custom-fit backpack, making it easier for players to transport the controller to tournaments, LAN events, or casual gaming sessions with friends.
Image: Sony
Launch Details
FlexStrike is set to launch in early 2026, though pricing has not yet been revealed. With its blend of performance, customization, and cross-platform support, FlexStrike looks like a promising new entry in the competitive fighting scene — and a bold move from Sony into a new category of gaming hardware.
