Zwift Introduces New Controllers for its Cycling Fitness Platform

Zwift, the virtual cycling platform, is introducing a new game controller designed to enhance user experience. The Zwift Play controller can be easily attached to handlebars and offers a range of input options, including a directional pad, programmable analog buttons, and paddles for steering and braking. The device can be integrated with most drop handlebar designs and is secured with silicone straps.

Prior to this release, Zwift users who wanted more control options were stuck choosing between a few pure third-party options and Bluetooth-enabled e-racing controllers that weren’t designed to optimize the company’s digital fitness experience. Additionally, many of these devices struggled to integrate with the Zwift Companion app, where most users otherwise have access to certain features of the experience.

Zwift Play controllers give users “full control” and allow for easy U-turns and general navigation in many virtual worlds. To that end, the buttons are programmable to enable hotkeys such as enabling a boost and teleporting to multiplayer matches. This means less reaching for the phone or keyboard while driving, which is definitely helpful.

The controller will be released alongside brand new software called Beta Zwift Play Game Experience. A game mode called Repack Rush exists as a kind of tutorial to teach new users how to use the controllers in the best possible way, and more games will be released in the near future. There are also more multiplayer tournaments, such as the annual UCI Cycling Esports World Championships, held in Central Park’s virtual recreation space.

Zwift Play controllers are available today in the US and Europe. The controllers are initially available at a discounted price of $100, but will go up to $150 once the initial beta testing phase is over.