I think it’s a bit early for design changes myself – other than improved interior parts – but it’s ultimately the people who buy these sticks that will have the final say on whether the design changes were justified.
I could MAYBE see myself getting one of these sticks but it would have to be the one with the artwork I like.
I’d go for the Ken one since he’s my favorite SF4 character at the moment… I’m not really into artwork that’s so dark or “minimalist” that you can’t really see much of anything in it… I won’t go for an “allocation” deal that leaves me stuck with a stick that I didn’t particularly want. It’s white faceplate Ken or nothing! LOL
I think in the end that MadCatz will see fewer complaints about the changes in their revised TE stick than the grief Hori will probably get about the HRAP V SA over the coming months. Nice to see MC is keeping the options for faceplate removal.
Personally, I’d like to see a “stock” TE stick with no game license - similar to the Asian version for the XBox 360 - as well as versions for other non Capcom fighters as well (BB: CS maybe or even the rumoured DOA5 and/or next-gen Guilty Gear).
I really like the slimmer sides and the extended art that is reminiscent of Art’s extended plexis. The only improvements I’d really like to see are a sturdier cable compartment cover and a removable cable.
PLayed on the new sticks last night. They’re nice. Side bevel is gone and the new graphics panel is the entire top of the stick. Otherwise it just felt like a TE.
Top panel is printed plastic again. Which I didn’t mind BTW. I have a modded round 1 TE with plexi and a stock round 2, I actually prefer the feel of the round 2 panel.
Thanks for the info. Regardless of button colors or artwork, these sticks are meant to be customized. Not to mention what Art is bringing to the table for TE’s, your mind is the limit. So looking past the stock look, I think these will mod nicely. I might pick one up…
Was really disappointed when I saw the “Photoshops” run on Joystiq and others yesterday, but after checking out that Destructoid video (thanks for the link d3v) and the real photos I really like it. I can’t wait to see some comparison shots of the TE vs. TE S. It looks way “shallower” and probably less wide.
Yay! New PCBs! Though getting a replacement was painless, and I was quite pleased MadCatz was willing to send out replacements well outside of warranties.
I think we’re going to only see all-Seimitsu sticks from Hori (HRAP SE – probably an HRAP V SE down the road) for the time being…
Otherwise, you’re stuck modding the SA sticks and TE’s on your own.
At least they put in universal mounting brackets for LS-32’s and JLF’s in those sticks!
Much appreciated on that count, btw, Mad Catz!
P.S. – Surprised we didn’t see something from Hori at this CES… I guess since it’s regarded as an American thing and not strictly videogamey they might pop up at a later electronics show/videogame conference with new plans for the US market?
