This isn’t an issue for Xbox Game Pass games via Xbox Cloud Gaming, which makes the Backbone One PlayStation Edition, ironically, a better fit for Microsoft’s subscription service. Having to strain my thumb every time I want to open a map or inventory makes playing games like Horizon Forbidden West and Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart a significant chore compared to on console. However, the functionality is there you’ll just need to double-tap your phone’s screen during gameplay. The Backbone One PlayStation Edition also lacks a dedicated central touchpad button. On the left side especially, you’ll need to move your thumb a significant distance away from the analog stick, which never feels quite right. Menu, screenshot, and sharing buttons (along with the shortcut button to the Backbone app) are all awkwardly placed quite far down either side of the controller. A larger issue is the placement of the Backbone One’s ancillary buttons. Still, that’s a small blemish on an overall tight design.

The same can’t be said for the Backbone One’s D-pad, however, which feels slightly loose and listless. The pad rests comfortably in your hands while the triggers, analog sticks, and face buttons are all of satisfyingly high quality. The sleek, matte white finish matches the default colorway of the PS5 and DualSense wireless controller. The Backbone One PlayStation Edition pleases right out of the box.

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