Sony Releases PlayStation Accessory That Turns DualShock 4 Into Pro Controller

Pro controllers allow competitive players to gain an edge above those who use standard controllers. These controllers make it easier for players to fight fast-paced shooters as well as fighting games that are common staples in the eSports category.

Various companies are invested in releasing their own offerings for all players to see, try and purchase. Microsoft, for example, released the Xbox One Elite Controller, a pro-level controller that has several customizable paddles that can be used as additional buttons for those oh-so-important functions. This accessory works with the Xbox, of course.

PlayStation 4 players, on the other hand, have a lot of options too. One of this is the Scuf Vantage 2, a pro controller that lets users remap functions to specific buttons and paddles, while also allowing them to change how the physical controller will look like, buttons and face plates and all.

Sony, for it's part, hasn't released a pro controller with additional paddles or buttons yet. What it does have, however, is something more interesting and affordable – a DualShock 4 attachment that turns standard PS4 controllers into pro controllers.

An attachment?

Sony's Back Button Attachment is a nifty little accessory that has two remappable back buttons and a small OLED display that tells what functions are currently assigned to the buttons. It doesn't use paddles; The Verge noted that it uses two back buttons that sit flush with the DualShock 4's rear grip areas.

It is attached to the via a connector that is plugged into the DS4 controller 's 3.5mm audio port. Interestingly, the attachment has a 3.5mm audio port so that users can plug in their wired headsets while using it. The Verge noted, though, that it does shorten the DS4's battery life by a bit.

Sony's new accessory, which launches Jan. 23 in North America, will only cost $30. This makes it a very good option for those who want to try out pro-level controllers but don't want to spend a lot of money. It's also a good placeholder for the game company's upcoming pro controller, which was revealed in a patent spotted earlier.

The patent, accessible via the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), shows that Sony is working on a controller with some additional buttons at the back.