Ever since the unveiling of the GameCube, many have agreed that the default controller would be ultimately useless for any sort of fighter. While this point is highly debatable, most people have been looking for an Arcade Stick solution now that Capcom vs. SNK 2 EO has been released for the system. With upcoming fighters like Soul Calibur 2 on the horizon, there is an obvious market for such a device.

XGAMING’s mantra is “One Unit, Every System”, basically stating that they will provide support for every viable platform. This is where the X-Arcade comes into play. This gigantic platform is attached to your GameCube or other systems via adaptors. In theory, one could be using the X-Arcade on the PS3, Xbox2 and GameTetrahedron. It’s ideal for the fighter fan who really does not wish to readjust to a new arcade stick every time a new system is released.

The unit is huge, approximately sixty centimetres long and weighing a good five kilograms. Gigantic. Keep in mind that it is also two controllers in one: just as what you would find in an actual arcade machine. It’s the same size. Sitting down is a bit cramped but personally, I really didn’t have much of a problem with it. Standing would probably give more room but it’s really a non-issue to me. Most importantly, this feels like the real thing. It is literally like having an arcade board in front of you while you play. The sticks are sturdy, the buttons are solid and everything just feels right. Construction itself is extremely impressive. When opening the back, I noticed that the X-Arcade uses high-quality water pressured plywood. That says something folks. The insides are well ordered as well, no rat’s nest of wires, and the micro-switches aren’t cheap. Everything screams excellence.

The best part about the X-Arcade is the fact you can (and incredibly, are encouraged to) tweak the setup to your preference. Want ultra sensitive sticks? Japanese-style feather touch buttons? You can do this all quite easily with the X-Arcade. The instruction manual even explains how to, and no, it doesn’t void your warranty to meddle with the insides. Yes, this is the hardcore arcade fan’s ultimate dream.

The X-Arcade is shipped with the PC adaptor, and the console adaptors are sold separately. While the PC version is perfectly programmable, all console plugs are hardwired. This presents a problem. You see, the GameCube’s module isn’t perfect. Not by a long shot. Take a look at the setup:

While it is admirable of XGAMING to attempt to support the analog triggers of the GameCube controller, it is ultimately useless. No traditional fighter is going to differentiate between “click-action” and “variable” button pressures. Why did XGAMING choose to separate the L and R “clicks” so far apart? This is a mystery. The GC adaptor would work much better in the traditional Capcom style as seen below.

While one might say this is so players can take full advantage of the GC’s analog triggers, the majority of the people who would be purchasing this peripheral would be doing so for fighters, not to play Super Mario Sunshine. However, there is hope. The GameCube Adaptor is supposedly being reworked and will presumably fix this problem.

I can wholeheartedly recommend the X-Arcade for anyone who is serious about their fighting games, has many systems, and loves to play arcade games on their PC. This is your all-in-one wonder, folks. However, all of this goodness comes at a cost, and it is indeed hefty. The X-Arcade itself retails for $149.95, and it only includes the PC adaptor in the box. Console adapters hover around $29.95.

If you can pony up the entrance fee, it’s a worthy investment, as you will never need to purchase another arcade stick again.