The Backbone One (8/10, Recommend with WIRED) is a pleasure. Plug the Lightning connector into your iPhone, stretch the controller upwards, and play. The buttons and cache feel nice and easy to click, with super-fast response times, and there’s extensive support for PS Remote Play, Xbox Remote Play, and Steam Link, as well as Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Google Stadia, and GeForce Now. Basically, even if you don’t like mobile gaming, this little controller can turn your phone into a console or PC. But the experience can change your mind about mobile games; I played Stardew Valley It’s been so long that I forgot I was playing on my phone. The built-in headphone jack is a nice touch.
What really sets Backbone One apart is its optional app. All features Free for the first year. I love the searchable catalog of games that support the controller, and the in-game highlights are recorded and edited automatically. There’s also an interface for seamless voice chat and multiplayer lobbies, as well as one-touch Twitch streaming and iOS Gaming Mode support. (Note: As iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max have a big camera, Backbone offers free adapters; check the box when paying or ordering separately.) –Louryn Strampe
Officially works with iPhone, Google Stadia, Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox and PlayStation Remote Play and Steam Link
★Another alternative solution: the RiotPWR ESL ($70) is a more traditional controller with an Xbox layout that connects to your iPhone via a Lightning cable for lag-free gaming and fast charging. If you can get past the unfortunate ESL branding color scheme (green and yellow), this is a decent choice for iOS games or remote play from Xbox, PlayStation, or PC. It also has a headphone port and there’s an Android version as well.
