PlayStation Reveals the Name and Specs of Its Next Hardware — And No, It's Not the PS6
A new era begins for fighting game enthusiasts. As the biggest event in the competitive fighting scene draws near, Sony has unveiled a wireless, uncompromising, tournament-ready controller built for elite performance: the FlexStrike.
First revealed during the State of Play 2025, Sony’s arcade stick—previously known under the codename Project Defiant—now has an official name: FlexStrike. Just ahead of its highly anticipated public showcase at Evo 2025, PlayStation has released a brand-new trailer detailing the stick’s advanced specs and next-gen features. As the brand’s first wireless arcade stick developed in-house, the FlexStrike promises a fierce combination of pro-grade performance and untethered freedom.
Image credit: Sony
Technology Built for Precision
The FlexStrike is far from just another accessory. It’s a finely engineered piece of hardware, crafted to meet the exacting standards of pro players and dedicated fans alike. With PlayStation Link technology—already featured in Pulse headsets—the stick delivers an ultra-low latency wireless connection that rivals wired setups in speed and responsiveness.
But that’s not all—the device also includes mechanical switch buttons and tool-less swappable directional triggers, allowing for fine-tuned control to match your personal style. All components are stored neatly inside the stick’s chassis, including the PlayStation Link USB adapter and a USB-C cable.
Designed for Travel and Tournaments
The FlexStrike comes with a sturdy and stylish sling carry case, making it easy to bring all essentials with you—stick, cables, accessories, and more. With its ergonomic design, non-slip base, and angled surfaces, it offers maximum stability whether you’re playing at home or on the tournament stage.
- Simultaneous audio connection via PlayStation Link: pair the stick with a Pulse Elite headset or Pulse Explore earbuds for seamless and immersive sound.
- Dual stick connectivity: two FlexStrike units can connect to a single console using just one USB adapter—perfect for head-to-head battles on the same screen.
- Built-in DualSense buttons: the stick replicates all the standard PS5 controller inputs, including the touchpad.
- Lock button to prevent accidental inputs during clutch moments.
- Wake the console with a single press of the PlayStation button.
A World Premiere in Las Vegas and a 2026 Release
Lucky attendees of Evo 2025, held from August 1–3 in Las Vegas, will get an exclusive first look at the FlexStrike at the Fight Stick Museum and the Arc System Works booth. A must-see event for true arcade aficionados.
The FlexStrike is scheduled for release sometime next year. It’s part of a broader strategy from Sony, which appears to be doubling down on hardware in 2026—starting with the much-rumored PlayStation Portal Pro, leaked through several sources in recent months. To stay updated on all things FlexStrike, visit PlayStation.com and sign up for the latest news on this next-gen arcade stick. The versus fighting revolution starts now.
