Recently, Backbone launched new Pink and Purple editions of their Pro and One controllers, with a focus on design and casual gaming. Overview Backbone has long been making snap-in controllers for iPhone and other phones. Earlier this year, they announced the Backbone Pro, which takes the popular Backbone One and adds new features like Bluetooth support and higher-quality controls. One of the best things about Backbone’s controllers is that they are designed to be universal: you can use them with an iPhone, an Android phone, or just about anything else through a wired connection. Pink and Purple Editions This week Backbone announced two new products, Backbone Pro: Pink Edition and Backbone One: Purple Edition. While both controllers are great for intense gaming, these new colorways are designed for those focused on more casual and relaxed gaming and looking for a more fun design. I received the Backbone Pro in pink to review, and the color really is nice and fun! Gameplay Experience I am certainly no more than a casual gamer, so I was excited to try out this controller! It feels very high quality and responsive. This was my first time playing mobile games with a controller, and it definitely improves the experience. Backbone App One of the great things about Backbone’s controllers is that they aren’t platform-specific. This extends to their app as well: you can launch games on your phone, or stream games from GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming. It works with the Steam Link app too. Backbone also offers a subscription service, Backbone+, which offers features like a classic games emulator, rewards in certain games, and more. Finally, the dedicated orange button gives you one-click access to the Backbone app. Apple Games In addition to their own app, Backbone features full integration with Apple Games. It has support for controller profiles, works in the Apple Games app and supported games, and can even open the Apple Games overlay by pressing and holding the Backbone button. Ports Both Backbone controllers feature a USB-C port and headphone jack. The USB-C port allows for passthrough charging for long gaming sessions. If you’re someone who prefers an all-wired setup, the USB-C port allows for wired connection to just about any device. And when playing on your phone, you can use the headphone jack to plug in wired headphones instead of relying on Bluetooth. Backbone Emulator My favorite part of the Backbone+ subscription is the built-in emulator. It’s built to be as simple as possible: just load your (legally-obtained) file, and the app automatically handles save states. I tried it out with two of my favorite classic games, and playing them with a controller was markedly better than with the touch screen. Pink vs Purple The Backbone Pro (pink) offers some useful features and enhancements over the Backbone One (purple): Wireless compatibility with up to 40 hours of battery life Two customizable back buttons Full-sized ALPS joysticks and hall effect triggers (compared to “compact precision joysticks” and analog triggers) Larger form factor for improved grip Full customization with button remapping and profiles in the Backbone app Textured grips (compared to smooth matte finish) I particularly appreciate the wireless functionally. This controller is lighter and more compact than your typical console controller, so it’s perfect for travel and other on-the-go gameplay. Availability The Pink and Purple editions are Target-exclusives. You can get them here: The other Backbone Pro and One models are also available on Amazon: My favorite Apple accessories: