Zwift releases first dedicated gaming controller for virtual riding

Zwift have announced the launch of their very first controllers designed specifically for Zwift users, in a move that aims to end the days of users reaching for their keyboard in favour of fingertip control.

Branded as Zwift Play, the new controllers will be available at a discounted price of £/$/€99 for an initial period - the end of which has yet to be specified - before rising to £/$/€149.

Designed to attach to drop handlebars via silicone straps, Zwift Play consists of one controller for each handlebar, with both controllers featuring four buttons on the upward-facing interface, and a paddle to be used for steering and braking.

The left controller is the more generic of the two, offering left, right, up and down buttons in order to allow players to navigate Zwift’s interfaces and make turns in the virtual world. With a more colourful look, the right controller offers Zwift’s usual shortcut buttons which will be used for Ride Ons, PowerUps, teleporting to Pacer Groups and so on.

As for the paddles, which are housed on the undercarriage of each controller, Zwift have promised steering and braking functionality that can be operated by pulling out the paddle and rocking it inwards, respectively.

These features can be put to their test in the new Beta Zwift Play Game Experience that will be launched alongside the controllers, featuring, amongst others, a repackaged Repack Rush (formerly Repack Ridge) that will put the users’ steering ability to the test.

Available in the United States, United Kingdom and the European Union from June 14th, Zwift have promised further game experiences to be released down the line to further maximise the benefits of Zwift Play.

Having reported that those using the current Zwift Companion app ride their indoor trainers “2-3 more times more per month than those without”, but acknowledging that these players are in the minority, Zwift will hope their new flagship offering encourages more users to bring the gaming control to their fingertips.

Zwift

Zwift is a fitness technology company that allows users to interact, train and race on its virtual online cycling platform. Zwift has approximately one million subscribers and has completely changed how cyclists view training.