First I would like to thank PCToyland for providing this unit to us for review/testing. Without the generous support of retailers like PCToyland, it would be exceedingly hard for review sites like COD to provide you with the quality articles you read today.
I have been a gamer for a long time and I’ve played on everything from a Commodore 64 to an Xbox. If I have learned one thing it is this, the keyboard is not the ultimate gaming accessory. Why do you think we use a game controller with the console systems instead of the keyboard? It’s easier to use. I will be the first to admit that, having played for so long with a keyboard, I have become accustomed to its layout and function. I now have trouble adjusting to using the controllers on console systems like PS2. Along comes the Nostromo Speedpad n52, the big brother to the n50. As you can see, the most noticeable difference is the extra row of keys on the n52.
I think the best description for the n52 can be had from Belkin, the manufacturer of the Speedpad:
“Built to conquer your enemy, the Nostromo SpeedPad n52 captures all the advantages of its critically acclaimed predecessor, the n50, and cranks up the juice with advanced options to dominate your game. It puts keyboard and gamepad functionality into one small and easy-to-use device, delivering more tools for customizing your game than ever. Using feedback from hundreds of gamers, our engineers designed the n52’s intuitive nature and stylish versatility to give you easy access to your arsenal of deadly maneuvers. So start programming up to 104 functions now-and watch how dangerous you become.”
So, essentially you have all the keys of an average keyboard (104) and the ability to utilize every one of them easily. Consider that with your keyboard you can utilize only a select few of the 104 keys. Keep in mind that those keys may be separated a bit farther than your stubby little fingers can reach comfortably; not to mention the awkward position and size of your keyboard. The n52 is compact and portable. My favorite position for it was on my left leg. Now, this did make gaming a little harder as the controller moved somewhat, but it also allowed me to frag in a much more comfortable position than usual. Also, if you are concerned about the unit sliding around on your desktop or whatever surface you plan on using, there is no need to worry; it comes equipped with an orange rubber pad on the bottom that will keep it in place. I had no trouble with it moving.
As far as the package is concerned, you will receive the following:
- Speedpad n52
- Manual
- Software CD
- Mac Instructions
No, it’s not a plethora of items but you don’t need much to get started. Heck, you don’t even need to install the software. The Speedpad can be used as a HID (Human Interface Device) right out of the box. Notice below a screenshot of device mangler showing the pad listed as:
- HID compliant game controller
- Nostromo n52 HID Speedpad 2.0
- Nostromo n52 HID Speedpad 2.0 Mouse Wheel
- HID keyboard device
- HID compliant mouse
Now, once the Speedpad and software is installed all you need do is configure the controller for whatever game(s) you like to play. It seems intimidating to configure all those keys, doesn’t it? Well, if you are like me you want the easiest and quickest way to get into the action. No problem, Belkin has you covered. Simply download pre-built configurations from the Nostromo site and you are ready to roll. Below is a shot of the first page of titles which have pre-built configurations available. Remember this is only the first page, there are more:
I decided to download a configuration file for UT2K3. As you can see from the shot below, it is located in the pre-built folder:
From this point just go into the loadout manager and load up the configuration file you want to use:
If you want to customize the pre-built configuration files or simply want to create one of your own, then you can access the profile editor.
This is the profile I downloaded for UT2K3. You might notice the green, red and blue arrows on the toolbar. Those are for changing the shift state of the controller. What, you thought you were stuck with a measly 27 key commands? Au contraire. You can use the colored shift states to change the commands for each key. So, for example, in the green state the orange button acts as a grenade throw and in red it acts as a jump key. It’s all up to you. Now, that kinda expands your horizons, huh? What about remembering which state you are in while programming or playing? Again, no problem. As you can see below, in profile editor the pad shows which state you are in very clearly. The LED’s make it very easy to see which state you are in, even in the midst of battle.
While you are playing, the led’s located next to the shift key (below the directional pad) also light up for the respective state you are in. Red for red, green for green, etc.
What about when I need to do multiple actions at once? How is this different than using a keyboard? Well, certain games allow you to develop keybinds to accomplish this. They can be confusing and downright difficult. With the speedpad you just use the macro record function. No need to remember difficult switches and commands.
Do you have another controller that you prefer to use with specific games? Wow, once again I have to say no problem. The speedpad comes equipped with loadout managers for the original n50, single and double gamepad controllers, as can be seen below:
Once you have the speedpad up and running, you can access all these functions via the icon located in the taskbar:
The quality of the speedpad is topnotch on the unit I tested. The keys were a bit sticky at first, but after a few hours of play they seemed to loosen up a bit. Either that or I was just slamming them harder, hehe. We gamers sometimes get worked up when we play. The orange button on the side was also a bit hard to press and since I didn’t utilize it that much it never really got less sticky. Unfortunately, it only comes in this one configuration so left handers will have to learn how to cope, sorry. The palm pad, for lack of a better term, can be adjusted for those of you with oversized mitts.
If you are one who prefers to keep things simple and use only 10-15 keys when you game, this probably isn’t the product for you. For others that need every advantage or who are already proficient and want to move their game to the next level, I would recommend giving this a try. Will it increase your score? I can’t confirm that, but I can guarantee you won’t have any excuses now. Of course, that’s just my opinion. Your mileage may vary.
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