Controller Pak

• Release Date: 1996
• Genre: Data Management
• Style: Memory Card

Accessory Description

The {!Controller Pak} is an accessory that allows users to save game data. The gray device snaps into the input slot underneath the controller, and storage capacity is divided into "pages" or notes. While a {!Controller Pak} can store a maximum of 123 pages, each game will differ in the number of pages required to save information. This number can usually be found within the game's instruction manual or directly on the packaging. It is important that the console is turned off before removing the {!Controller Pak} from the controller or else you run the risk of losing data. In addition, games that support both the {!Controller Pak} and {!Rumble Pak} will typically have an option that allows you to swap between the two devices before saving or resuming play. The {!Controller Pak} also includes a sticker that can be used to list each game saved to the accessory.

Review: Overall

The Controller Pak offers something unique over the PlayStation's memory card: the ability to interface with the controller. This means that up to four users can potentially have personalized characters or custom vehicles in the same game, which is a big plus. Unfortunately, the Controller Pak is used primarily as a memory card instead of complementing the Game Pak's ability to save data. Since the drawing power of the Controller Pak is its ability to carry personalized information wherever you go, this is a big disappointment.

Another problem is that as a memory card, the Controller Pak does not offer a lot of space to save information. While the number of pages sounds impressive, most games can eat up at least half of them in one save file! If you enjoy sports games, be prepared to devote an entire Controller Pak just to save statistics. This means you're going to have to look into buying additional Controller Paks or look into a third-party device with greater storage capabilities to get the most out of your money. In short, it's a basic memory card that falls short of its potential.