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I enjoy playing fighting games casually, and recently, I decided to purchase a new arcade controller. However, I was searching for something specific. Since I had already turned my stick into a mixbox, I needed something that offered the same level of accuracy for inputs. Additionally, I required it to be ergonomic and as compact as possible. After much deliberation, I opted for the Flatbox. So, in this Flatbox Review we’ll see if ihis controller is worth buying even in 2024, let’s go!
Hardware Quality
The quality of this controller fluctuates depending on where you purchase it from since anyone can visit jfedor Github and search for all the files needed to create their custom Flatbox, from 3D printable models to PCB design files.
I got mine from w1spArcadeEU on Etsy and paid more than what you’d find on a store like Aliexpress, but I can say that the quality is there. Everything is tightly shut, compacted, and has a good weight to it. Meaning, it won’t drift on my desk while I desperately mash buttons.
Every plastic component is 3D printed, so it’s expected to have some roughness to it, but not as much as you’d anticipate. The only thing I hope was built differently are the buttons.
They aren’t bad, but since the plastic sticks out so much, they are a bit wobbly when compared to a standard arcade controller.
Despite this, they feel very responsive, and you can customize them with different types of buttons to ensure you have the right pressure and clickiness to your liking.
The Flatbox comes with hotswap Choc Kaihl Low Profile Switches, and for mine, I chose the Linear type since they aren’t as loud and don’t require much pressure to register my inputs.
It was weird at first since I wasn’t getting the same feel I had when playing with my Mayflash F500, but, it’s challenging to go back to other types of buttons. I tried installing the Brown Choc Kaihl, but they were too clicky and loud.
Despite this, they feel very responsive, and you can customize them with different types of buttons to ensure you have the right pressure and clickiness to your liking.
The Flatbox comes with hotswap Choc Kaihl Low Profile Switches, and for mine, I chose the Linear type since they aren’t as loud and don’t require much pressure to register my inputs.
It was weird at first since I wasn’t getting the same feel I had when playing with my Mayflash F500, but, it’s challenging to go back to other types of buttons. I tried installing the Brown Choc Kaihl, but they were too clicky and loud.
Is the Flatbox Loud?
The amount of noise a controller makes will always concern me since I have a girlfriend who hates to hear me play. And while I play at nighttime, the noise I make becomes even more apparent.
So, how loud is the Flatbox? It’s very loud; I think it’s the loudest arcade controller I’ve ever played on. But, luckily, after doing the same thing with my previous controller, applying a foam layer inside the button dampened the sound a lot! So, if you have this issue, give it a shot!
Performance and Features
Compatibility and Issues
For performance, let’s first take a look at the compatibility list, which might be a deal-breaker for some. The Flatbox I own is based on the Rev5 Model and is compatible with the following systems:
• PC/Steam Deck
• Nintendo Switch
• Xbox One
• PS3/PS4*
*Although it connects to the PS4 it has an 8 minute timer before disconnecting.
Given this, you won’t be able to play your favorite fighting games on either Xbox Series S/X or even on PS5. There are ways of making it work, though, with the use of something like the Brook Wingman:
However, if you like to attend tournaments, read the ruleset and check if it’s legal to use converters. Usually, there’s no problem if you bring a USB cable connecting the console and the Wingman.
I mainly use it on my Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch; everything connects and runs smoothly. You just have to make sure that you click on the right button while plugging in the USB-C cable to start with the desired input mode.
Even if you choose the correct Input Mode, there’s a chance that the movement keys will be set to D-PAD Mode. You can change this by pressing BACK + START + LEFT to emulate the Left Analog Stick. Alternatively, you can do something much cooler.
Unlocking the Flatbox Full Potential
Press Start and then plug in the Flatbox to enter Web-Config mode. Upon accessing http://192.168.7.1, you will be redirected to the Web Configurator, where you can customize every aspect of your Flatbox.
There’s a multitude of things you can do, such as assigning keys, macros, turbo functions, and even tilts! Now, I can finally enjoy playing Smash Bros with an arcade controller without having to spend money on a SmashBox!
Will the Flatbox help you play better?
And now to answer the question most people have when considering a leverless controller, will the Flatbox improve your gameplay?
Well, if you want to improve, you might as well practice your fundamentals, learn match-ups, or even watch other people rather than purchasing a new controller expecting effortless success. However, if you’re sick of missing inputs with a stick, then the Flatbox might help you.
Thanks to the various SOCD cleaners, there are some great shortcuts for more demanding input sequences, but since they are so different from what you are used to on a stick, it might be frustrating until you have the muscle memory built.
So, Is the Flatbox worth it?
To wrap up this Flatbox Review it’s time to give my closing thoughts.
Given its pleasing and compact simple design, responsive buttons, and customizable options, I feel like I can say that the Flatbox is worth it, and even beyond. I see myself always finding an opportunity to plug in and play any game with this thing.
Despite not being a popular choice for anything other than fighting games, you can find some enjoyment running through 2D platformers and even anime fighters like Naruto Storm Connections (just on Steam though).
However, most of the Flatboxes are homemade and it shows. Therefore, make sure you don’t spend as much as I did on something that is mostly 3D printed. If I could rewind time, I would probably try to find one with an acrylic case, which gives a more polished look!
So, with all this said, grab yourself a Flatbox if anything I said resonated with you!
Side Note: While writing this review I ordered an acrylic case and some new buttons for my Flatbox. I’ll post an update here once it arrives!