PDP is an incredible company that exists to provide gamers with the best experience they can have, be it as a collector or as a competitive smash bros player. I was lucky enough to attend one of their events in London and they made a very good impression on myself and others. Not only did they showcase most of their new and upcoming products, they even held tournaments and got all attendees involved. It certainly wasn’t your typical formal press event, which is always a nice change of pace.
Products
PIXEL PALS
PIXEL PALS are a mix of a cool gaming themed lamp and a retro styled gaming figure. Featuring many gaming icons such as Master Chief from Halo, Laura Croft from Tomb Raider and Super Mario from, well, Super Mario Bros, there really is a Pixel Pal for everyone. The line is ever expanding too, so if there isn’t a specific character you like, the chances they’ll eventually appear as a PIXEL PAL is high.
The PIXEL PALS on show at the event were displayed creatively to show off their light up function and to make the entire event have more personality. Something that would no doubt be the case to any room filled with these awesome collectables. There are a lot of PIXEL PALS available on the PDP website, so check them out here and get your collection started.
Nintendo Switch Cases And Backpacks
It was no secret at the event that Nintendo Switch carry cases and backpacks were a priority for PDP. With such a large range of designs and specifications, the focus wasn’t just on appearance, but on practicality too. Switch Lite cases were also on show. One of the best things about these products, much like all other PDP products, is that they’re officially licensed.
The commuter cases feature a semi-hard shell perfect for bumps when on the move. They also feature multiple storage pockets and self fastening retention straps to avoid things moving around whilst out and about. That along with the ability to hold up to 14 game cards makes it the perfect, affordable and stylish way to carry your switch.
The commuter case is just one of the many styles and designs available to those who want to look after their Nintendo Switch. You can get your very own backpack or themed Nintendo Switch Case over at PDP.
Gaming Headsets
Gaming headsets were a main focus at the PDP event, with a large range of designs for various consoles. Xbox One and PlayStation 4 consoles had an entire tables worth of headsets ready to test. One of the first features I was shown was the durability. The headrest area is made of incredibly strong and durable plastic that allows the headset to be fully twisted 180 degrees and still not break. It was truly incredible to see.
Both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One headsets came in Level30, Level40 or Level 50. Level50 being the highest quality and most advanced. The level of the headset also dictates the driver. Level30 is a 30mm driver, Level40 is a 40mm driver and Level50 is, you guessed it, a 50mm driver. Some other features of the Level50 Xbox headset were that the volume dial is on the right ear cup, the microphone has bi-directional noise cancelling and that the earcup cushions are made from a breathable mesh, making long wear comfortable.
Each headset offers a range of specifications and differences, so I’d fully recommend checking out all the variations of the PDP Gaming headsets over on their website. If you’re looking to buy one, you can visit the headset section of the PDP website.
Nintendo Controllers
Themed Controllers
Mario or Luigi? Zelda or Link? Jigglypuff or Pikachu? If these questions are difficult normally, just imagine how hard it would be to choose a themed controller with one of these on. Luckily, it’s better to have more choice than no choice, and choice is what is on offer. With various Pokemon designs and designs for other gaming icons such as Sonic, there’s never been a better time to personalize your smash bros sessions.
Themed Gamecube controllers had a massive appeal to me as both a collector and smash bros player. The designs are not only reflected in both the circular section in the middle, but on the buttons and overall controller colour too. Just when you think they couldn’t get any cooler, they do. Some feature a detachable C-stick which can be changed for a different design.
This wired controller also has an insane 10 foot long USB cable, so there’s no need to sit next to the console. If any of that takes your fancy, you can check out the Jigglypuff controller as an example of the awesome themed controllers available.
Rock Candy Controllers
The Rock Candy controllers aren’t particularly a new line. They’ve been around on the Xbox 360 and Wii U for some time. There is however a brand new line for the Nintendo Switch that was shown at the London event. Their cool and calm designs quite literally made me feel like a kid in a candy store. The clear shell allows a view right into the controllers circuitry.
The designs are great for kids who want to use a controller for their switch, rather than the Joycons. They’re designed to fit a large range of hands more comfortably than the average Gamecube controller design. They also feature concave thumbsticks to allow better precision in game. The selection of colours available is truly wonderful. If these controllers interest you at all feel free to visit the Rock Candy Controllers section of the PDP site.
Afterglow Deluxe+ Audio Wired Controller
This awesome and unique controller was a highlight out of all the shown Nintendo Switch controllers. This pro controller features LED lighting with full colour range. This means you can make things even more personal with your favourite colour. Don’t have a favourite colour or don’t want to be distracted? There are options to have a rainbow effect, or to just switch off the lights completely.
Much like the Rock Candy line, the Afterglow Deluxe+ controllers offer a clear casing that shows off the inner circuitry. This combined with the awesome colour combinations makes for one epic controller. In addition the controller includes a 3.5mm jack that supports in game chat and audio, along with dual programmable back buttons. The volume can also be changed via the D-pad and Function button.
If having a pro controller that’s also a light show won’t help you bring fear or distractions to your foes, I don’t know what will. You can check out the Afterglow Deluxe+ Audio Wired Controller here, or check out the end of this article, where the team may just be giving one away.
Controller Charging Stations
Everyone hates charging their controllers. Tons of wires everywhere along with the hassle of only being able to charge whilst you play. Those issues have been solved in the form of Ultra Slim Charge Systems. Available for both Xbox One and PlayStation 4, these charging systems allow up to two controllers to be charged at the same time.
Featuring magnetic ports for a drop and charge effect, you’ll be happy knowing the controller is connected. The animated LED charge indicators will then alert the player when it’s time to get back into gaming. The charge system also features micro-suction material on the bottom to stop the charger sliding around on most surfaces.
The Xbox charger includes two rechargeable battery packs for Xbox One and Elite controllers, so they’ll be good to go right out of the box. If you want a hassle free way to charge your Xbox One or PlayStation 4 controllers, I’d recommend checking out the PDP Gaming Ultra Slim Charge Systems.
Collectors Items and Replicas
Collectors items are close to my heart. As a long time collector of video game statues and replicas, I was excited to find out that PDP in fact sold video game replicas. The two weapons on show at the event were the Gears Of War Lancer and the Borderlands 3 Maliwan Pistol. The Borderlands 3 Maliwan Pistol was also available to win at the event, so it’s certainly the one that caught my interest the most.
The Maliwan Pistol is a 1:1 life sized replica. It features functioning switches and a rotating ammo cartridge that simulates actual use. This along with the lights and sound effects makes anyone and everyone feel like they’re part of the Borderlands 3 experience. The brightness of the lights and volume can be changed via a dial on the replica, along with the choice of five different elemental damage settings at the push of a button.
The Borderlands 3 Maliwan Pistol is officially licenced by 2k and Gearbox and is due for release in December 2019, but there’s still time to pre-order, so I’d fully recommend checking it out.
Event and Products Summary
Overall the event was very relaxing and fun. The PR teams and development teams mixed in with all the press types equally. The various tournaments and previews helped keep the atmosphere friendly, something vital to any press related event.
The products shown were all of excellent quality and demoed in an easy to understand way. I’d fully recommend PDP products not only because of personal use, but also because of this event. The team at PDP truly want to make gaming easier and better for everyone. I’m proud to have taken part in such an event with the team.
PDP Giveaway
As mentioned earlier, there is a chance to win some PDP goodies. A Level50 PlayStation 4 headset, Nintendo Switch Afterglow Deluxe+ Wired Controller and a Lara Croft PIXEL PAL will all be available via a twitter giveaway at the same time as this article goes live. The giveaway will start on November 5th, 2019 and will end on November 11th, 2019. More details on how to enter can be found on the Informed Pixel Twitter account.
Let us know if you liked our coverage of the event on the Informed Pixel Facebook page or on the Informed Pixel Twitter account. You can also find my work on my Facebook page or on my Twitter. For more gaming news and additional coverage of anime themed games, you can keep up to date at Informed Pixel.
