Don’t expect to get your hands on the FlexStick this year, but there’s one thing we know for sure—Sony has officially unveiled what was previously known as Project Defiant.
The FlexStrike is Sony Interactive Entertainment’s first officially designed fight stick, tailored for fans of fighting games. It works with PlayStation 5 and PC via wired connection, or wirelessly using PlayStation Link—the company’s breakthrough ultra-low latency wireless tech. The FlexStrike features mechanical switch buttons and toolless, swappable restrictor gates: square, circle, and octagon gates fit right into the stick’s built-in storage, alongside the included PlayStation Link USB adapter. Everything, from the controller to the USB-C cable, packs neatly into a carrying case for local tournaments, game nights, or travel, and the rechargeable battery ensures you’re always ready to jump in.
On PlayStation 5, the FlexStrike delivers a seamless fighting experience. Players can use a single PlayStation Link USB adapter to connect both the FlexStrike and a Pulse Elite wireless headset or Pulse Explore earbuds for low-latency audio and crystal-clear voice chat, even in the heat of battle. The FlexStrike features Sony’s updated PlayStation Link USB adapter, fully compatible with USB-C ports. You can also connect two FlexStrikes to one adapter for local couch competition or co-op matches.
This controller’s ergonomic shape has thoughtfully angled surfaces and a non-slip base for maximum stability. It sports a premium, custom-designed digital stick, too. Want to navigate menus between matches? Keep your DualSense connected alongside the FlexStrike. The controller replicates all of the DualSense’s button inputs, plus adds a touchpad. There are plenty of customization options as well: a built-in lever mode switch for adjusting directional inputs, and a dedicated lock button to prevent accidental presses during those critical moments. If you’re only using the FlexStrike, you can wake your PlayStation 5 with a tap of the PlayStation button once it’s synced.
The FlexStrike will make its public debut at EVO 2025, at the Arc System Works booth and the Fight Stick Museum, from August 1 to 3. The controller is set to launch in 2026.
Leave a Reply