DualShock 3 Needed for PlayStation Now on Phones and Tablets

Following the announcement of PlayStation Now at Sony CEO Kaz Hirai's Consumer Electronics Show keynote yesterday it has been confirmed that users of the Netflix-like service for PlayStation games will need to use a DualShock 3 controller on phones and tablets.

Speaking to CVG, Sony America marketing executive John Koller commented that Now games will "need to go through the DualShock" adding that a touch based alternative will not be provided.

"The DualShock remains the key ingredient. So that controller experience needs to go perfectly. We didn't want to utilise touch screen or anything like that because the games are best played with a DualShock.

"It requires the DualShock. The DualShock 3 specifically. To enable tablet and smartphone play, you've got to have the DualShock 3."

The PS3 controller will not be needed on PS4 or Vita where a DualShock 4 and the handheld's own input systems can be used respectively. Though not expressly stated by Koller, a DualShock 3 will also be needed for Now games on Bravia TVs. 

It's unclear why Sony opted for their previous controller over the DualShock 4 though presumably the cheaper cost was a deciding factor. The DualShock 3 is also the standard controller of PS Vita TV. 

Hopefully, DualShock 4s will eventually be compatible with non-console PlayStation Now devices.