By CE Critic - Buy Better Tech

Table of Contents:

• Does anyone actually need this?
• Value proposition, or value extraction?
• Is it just me, or is this a solution in search of a problem?
• But hey, let's not count them out completely.
• The verdict: Wait and see.

Samsung's Gaming Hub, a cloud gaming platform built into its TVs, is getting its own official controller. But before we crown it the king of couch potatoes, let's take a skeptical look at this "Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub" program.

Does anyone actually need this?

Sure, dedicated buttons for Gaming Hub and TV volume sound convenient. But most TVs already have remotes, and existing Xbox and PS5 controllers work just fine. Samsung claims this controller has been thoroughly tested, but is that really necessary for basic features like buttons and Bluetooth? This smacks of vendor lock-in, trying to keep gamers within the Samsung ecosystem.

Value proposition, or value extraction?

At $50, this controller isn't a steal. Generic Bluetooth controllers can be found for half the price. And while Samsung promises "best possible game streaming experience," how much better can it be than a tried-and-true Xbox controller? Especially considering cloud gaming's inherent dependence on internet quality.

Is it just me, or is this a solution in search of a problem?

The TV gaming market is crowded. LG and Sony tout their TVs as gaming powerhouses, and PC and console gaming remain dominant. Samsung Gaming Hub, while convenient, is still in its infancy. Throwing a branded controller with limited benefits feels like a shot in the dark, more about PR than solving real gamer problems.

But hey, let's not count them out completely.

PDP, the controller's maker, knows its stuff. The 40-hour battery life and low-latency Bluetooth are nice perks. And if you're deep in the Samsung ecosystem, maybe the dedicated buttons and guaranteed compatibility have some appeal.

The verdict: Wait and see.

This controller may be a niche win for die-hard Samsung fans, but its broader appeal remains doubtful. Until we see it in action and compare it to established options, the skepticism meter stays firmly in the "yellow" zone. Let's hope CES 2024 sheds some light on whether this is a genuine innovation or just another marketing gimmick.

Remember, in the grand game of gaming, convenience shouldn't come at the cost of choice and affordability. So, keep your options open, gamers, and wait for something truly game-changing before handing over your hard-earned cash.