Among the many manufacturers of gaming peripherals, Razer has tried to differentiate its offering by focusing heavily on haptic technologies. Over the years, in addition to high-performance keyboards, precise mice, controllers, audio systems and headsets, the Californian company has presented a series of accessories equipped with vibration that promise to reach a new level of immersion, physically stimulating players, beyond beyond three dimensions and sound.
On the occasion of RazerCon 2024the Irvine house showcased the new products that will enrich the line up, among which the haptic cushion stands out Razer Freyja and the latest additions to the now famous range of headsets Razer Kraken V4 Pro. We had the chance to preview the new accessories and this is the story of our hands-on.
Razer Freyja: the cushion with haptic technology
Presented under the name “Project Esther” during CES 2024, Razer Freyja is now available to the general public.
Razer Freyja is a gaming pillow equipped with HD haptics, thanks to technology Razer Sensa HD Haptics. The device is equipped with six coil motors that provide multi-directional, high-definition tactile feedback. This allows players to perceive the directions, intensity and distances of events during the game, adapting the vibration based on the context and on the basis of the inputs received: for example, in the case of an explosion the movement of air is returned with different degrees of intensity, so as to highlight not only the type of blow, but also its direction.
During our test we were able to experiment with Razer Freyja playing Final Fantasy 16, one of the games already compatible at launch: the cushion precisely replicated our character’s movements, while providing us with feedback on the surrounding environment. The vibrations, which are distributed over the entire surface of the cushion, differ based on the type of attack, highlighting with a good degree of precision the direction of the blows made and received.
In short, the first impact with Freyja was positive and, although the duration of the test did not allow us to reach a complete opinion, Razer’s new device aroused our curiosity. With more simulation-based games, the haptic cushion could become a viable alternative to more complex and expensive systems, allowing players to add a new level of depth to the gaming experience. The success of this proposal however, it will depend on the quantity of titles supported: Freyja, at least at the moment, does not work automatically with all games but requires ad hoc programming to best express its potential.
Razer Freyja is compatible with PC and can be controlled with the proprietary Razer Synapse software, while with Android devices support is guaranteed by Razer Nexus, using both Razer HyperSpeed wireless connection and Bluetooth. A small button panel installed on the left side of the device allows you to quickly adjust the various intensity levels available or set presets. Razer’s pillow can also be used while listening to music and watching movies.
Freyja is compatible with a wide range of gaming or office chairs thanks to an adjustable fixing system that is easily adaptable to user needs. The AC power cable is located on the left side and is equipped with a quick release connection, so as to prevent trips or accidental damage.
The latest arrival from Razer doesn’t come cheap: Razer Freyja is available at price of 299.99 Euros.
Razer Kraken V4 Pro: the haptic headset in the definitive version
The Kraken headset range was the first line of Razer products to feature haptic technology. With the new ones Razer Kraken V4 Prothe Californian company brings out the latest version of these headphones which, in addition to haptic feedback, are accompanied by a dedicated controller hub.
Once again, Razer Sensa HD Haptics allows the headset to return a realistic and multi-directional vibration, which promises to simulate gaming action.
Audio quality is guaranteed by proprietary drivers Razer TriForce Bio-Cellulose 40 mm, repositioned to adhere more naturally to the auricle, while the new OLED Controller Hub allows complete customization of the headphones and direct management of all audio sources: from here it is possible to adjust equalization, volume, set presets and customize the intensity of the vibration.
The HyperClear Super Wideband retractable microphone is perfectly integrated into the earcup and the flexible structure allows you to position it as you wish. Kraken 4 Pro is also the first Razer headset to offer four connection modes: HyperSpeed Wireless, Bluetooth, USB and 3.5 mm jack, with the possibility of simultaneous connection to 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth sources.
Finally, the lighting system is not missing Razer Chroma RGB located on the outside of the earcups, which can be synchronized with all compatible peripherals. Razer Kraken V4 Pro is available at price of 449.99.
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