4 Awesome Peripherals For Hardcore MMO Gamers
The Enduring Appeal of MMO Peripherals
Massively Multiplayer Online games continue to represent a distinct category within the gaming landscape. While innovations have been explored, the most successful games consistently employ combat systems centered around abilities.
These systems necessitate players to utilize a diverse range of key presses for effective gameplay. Furthermore, seamless communication is vital for MMO players, making voice chat an essential component.
Essential Equipment for the Dedicated MMO Gamer
Although basic functionality can be achieved with a standard keyboard and a mouse featuring three buttons, dedicated players will benefit significantly from specialized equipment.
Investing in the appropriate peripherals can substantially enhance the gaming experience. Let's examine some of the most compelling MMO peripherals currently available.
Considerations for optimal performance include responsiveness, customization options, and ergonomic design. These factors contribute to both comfort and competitive advantage.
The right setup allows for quicker reaction times and more efficient execution of complex ability rotations. This is particularly important in fast-paced encounters.
Key Peripherals to Enhance Your Gameplay
- Gaming Keyboards: Look for keyboards with programmable macro keys.
- Gaming Mice: Mice with numerous buttons are crucial for binding abilities.
- Headsets: A high-quality headset with a clear microphone is essential for voice communication.
Prioritizing these peripherals can elevate your MMO gameplay to a new level. Effective coordination and swift execution are key to success.
Razer Naga Mouse
Traditional mice offer limited functionality within the context of Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) games. While effective for cursor direction, their restricted number of buttons presents challenges for binding a comprehensive range of actions.
This contrasts sharply with first-person shooters, where the mouse manages aiming, weapon switching, and secondary functions, leaving movement and limited actions to the keyboard.
Addressing MMO Control Needs
Razer pioneered a solution by recognizing the specific control requirements of MMOs. Their response was the development of the Naga mouse, distinguished by its array of programmable keys positioned on its side.
These keys significantly enhance gameplay, allowing players to readily access secondary abilities that would otherwise be cumbersome to activate using the keyboard alone.
Naga Model Variations and Pricing
The Razer Naga is available in several different configurations. The standard model typically ranges in price from $60 to $80 when purchased online.
However, limited edition versions, such as the Star Wars Special Edition and the Epic edition, can reach a price point of $140.
Here's a quick overview of the key features:
- Programmable Keys: A grid of buttons for customized in-game actions.
- Ergonomic Design: Designed for comfortable extended use.
- Multiple Editions: Available in standard and special themed versions.
Corsair Vengeance K90 Keyboard
The current gaming keyboard market is saturated with options, presenting a challenge for any single model to distinguish itself. However, the Corsair Vengeance K90 successfully achieves this differentiation, and a detailed examination reveals the reasons behind its success.
Key Features and Performance
This keyboard utilizes Cherry MX Red mechanical switches. These switches are characterized by their light actuation force, which reduces fatigue during extended gaming sessions with frequent key presses. A notable capability of the K90 is its ability to register up to 20 simultaneous key presses.
Customized key configurations can be stored directly on the keyboard’s internal memory. Furthermore, the keyboard features 18 dedicated, programmable keys positioned along the left side, allowing for flexible function assignments.
Backlighting is also incorporated into the design, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.
Build Quality and Design
The K90 boasts exceptional build quality. Its chassis is crafted from aluminum, providing a robust and durable feel that is uncommon among gaming keyboards.
Pricing and Availability
The suggested retail price for the Corsair Vengeance K90 is $129.99. However, due to high demand, availability can be limited.
Currently, many retailers are experiencing stock shortages, potentially driving the price above $150. Despite this, the keyboard’s features and quality justify a higher investment; a price point of $200 would still represent excellent value.
- Switch Type: Cherry MX Red
- Simultaneous Keys: Up to 20
- Programmable Keys: 18
- Material: Aluminum Chassis
Logitech G930 Wireless Headset
In the formative years of massively multiplayer online games (MMOs), communication was largely limited to text-based chat. Considering the complexities of titles such as Everquest, it's remarkable how players coordinated raids without the benefit of a headset.
Currently, a headset is considered essential equipment for any player participating in raid content. While numerous inexpensive headsets are available, their quality can be inconsistent.
For gamers prioritizing exceptionally clear and precise voice communication, the Logitech G930 presents itself as a premier option. This headset distinguishes itself through its superior voice transmission capabilities alongside robust surround sound performance.
Many budget-friendly headsets adequately manage voice chat, but often fall short in accurately reproducing audio, particularly music.
Wireless Freedom and Convenience
The G930’s wireless design grants users greater freedom of movement. This eliminates concerns about accidental cord disconnections or tripping hazards.
Furthermore, the headset incorporates programmable keys, allowing for customized control of your preferred voice communication software.
The closed-ear construction of the Logitech G930 is a benefit not only to the user, but also to those nearby, minimizing sound leakage and maintaining a quieter environment.
Exceptional Build Quality
While the array of features is impressive, the primary reason for selecting the G930 is its exceptional build quality. The durability of this headset is a key factor.
The combination of features and long-lasting construction offered by the Logitech G930 is currently unmatched within the gaming headset market.
With a price point of approximately $180, the G930 represents a worthwhile investment for serious gamers.
VisionTek Bigfoot Killer 2100
This device represents more than a standard peripheral; it functions as a system enhancement. The initial title, “3 Awesome Gaming Peripherals For Hardcore MMO Players – And A Network Card, Too,” proved unsuitable.
Prioritizing Game Data
The Killer 2100 is an internal network adapter designed to optimize gaming performance. It achieves this by giving precedence to network packets containing crucial game information.
Upon its initial release in 2006, the adapter sparked considerable debate. A significant number of individuals questioned whether a network adapter could substantially influence performance metrics.
Review Consensus and Cost
Numerous reviews have been conducted on the product over time. The prevailing opinion suggests that it does indeed function as advertised, although the extent of its impact remains a point of contention among reviewers.
A common observation in these reviews is the adapter’s relatively high cost, approximately $90. This price point is considered substantial for a component that may offer only subtle improvements.
Benefits for MMO Players
However, for dedicated players of Massively Multiplayer Online games, the investment may be justified. Reports indicate potential benefits such as reduced ping times, increased frame rates, and a decrease in lag spikes.
These improvements can contribute to a more fluid and immersive gaming experience. This is particularly true for those who engage in activities like downloading files concurrently with gameplay.
The Killer 2100 allows for simultaneous background downloads without significantly impacting in-game performance.
Final Thoughts
This compilation doesn't focus solely on budget-friendly options, however, the importance of quality shouldn't be overlooked. Personal experience includes playing massively multiplayer online games with a very inexpensive keyboard and a basic, bundled mouse. Conversely, I’ve also utilized specialized gaming peripherals, including a dedicated mouse and an MMO-focused keyboard.
The contrast in gaming experience between these setups was remarkably significant. Prioritizing peripheral upgrades over hardware enhancements is often advisable, provided your system meets the minimum requirements for the desired game.
While increasing graphical settings from medium to high can be visually appealing, the ability to comfortably game for extended periods – without experiencing finger strain from suboptimal key placement – is a more substantial improvement.
What gaming peripherals would you suggest to others?
