Genki Manta: A Pro Controller with a Built‑In Screen and OS
The Genki Manta, currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, promises a premium feel for around $200. Unlike typical controllers, it runs Manta OS, a custom operating system that lets you tweak triggers, dead zones, haptic feedback and more directly from a 2.79‑inch display.
Hardware specs are impressive: up to 8000 Hz polling when wired, 1000 Hz over 2.4 GHz wireless, a 10‑meter range, 150 hours of battery life via Bluetooth LE 6, TMR joysticks and Hall‑Effect triggers, plus 16 MB of internal storage for apps.
Human Things, the Los Angeles‑based company behind Genki, has a track record of successful Kickstarter campaigns, which gives the Manta credibility.
The device adds four paddles on the underside and two extra buttons beside the bumpers, all programmable through the driver software. It can also switch to keyboard‑and‑mouse mode, though it’s unclear whether the screen is touch‑sensitive and how the mouse navigation will work.
Weighing about 280‑290 g, the Manta sits between the weight of an Xbox Series X controller and many mid‑range options.
Its price is $189 for the Super Early Bird tier and $279 retail, positioning it above the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro (≈$200) and well above budget options like the Gamesir G7 Pro ($70‑$80) that already offer 8000 Hz polling.
While the Manta’s feature set is compelling, its high price and novelty mean it must prove its worth in real‑world testing. If the Kickstarter reaches its goal, a shipping date will be announced; otherwise, potential backers should weigh the cost against established alternatives.
