PlayStation unveils its first arcade-style fighting joystick with low-latency wireless connection

PlayStation has introduced a new joystick designed for arcade-style fighting games. Codenamed Project Defiant, it uses PlayStation Link technology to deliver low-latency wireless connectivity, ensuring a responsive and seamless experience for fighting game enthusiasts.

Beyond the many games and announcements revealed during the State of Play 2025 event — including the new 007 First Light and the launch of Pragmata — the company also introduced new hardware.

The new joystick, Project Defiant, was developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment to offer players greater flexibility when playing fighting games, whether wirelessly via PlayStation Link or through a wired connection to a PlayStation 5 console or PC.

PlayStation Link technology is notable for its “ultra-low latency” connectivity, allowing players to achieve precise timing even without a wired connection, ensuring accurate in-game responses with each button press and joystick movement.

As the company highlighted on its blog, Project Defiant also includes multiple gameplay customization options. It features tool-free interchangeable restrictors, mechanical switch buttons, and a touchpad similar to the one on the DualSense wireless controller. It also includes a button that lets users power on the PS5 wirelessly directly from the joystick.

PlayStation also noted that the device was designed with a robust and ergonomic build to ensure comfort even during intense fighting game sessions. It also comes with a compartment for the restrictors and a PS Link USB adapter.

The gaming company confirmed it will share more details about the new joystick ahead of its release, which is scheduled for 2026.