Clear Plexi Cover for Qanba Obsidian 2 (Stickless)

To gain access to your Artwork or Plexi please be careful as the original panel has artwork permanently attached to it, the 6 black stickers will need removing before gaining access to the screws.

Qanba Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless Arcade Stick: Description and History

The Qanba Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless arcade stick is a highly innovative and specialized entry in the Qanba Obsidian series, blending the premium build quality and aesthetic appeal of the Obsidian 2 with a stickless design for a completely unique control experience. This stick is aimed at players who prefer a non-traditional input system and is tailored for those who want to move away from the conventional joystick design in favor of an alternative control method, such as button-based directional control or trackball-style input. The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless is not just a controller; it’s an experimental and cutting-edge approach to arcade gaming that continues Qanba’s legacy of pushing boundaries in the fight stick market.

Design & Features:

• Stickless Control System: The most prominent feature of the Qanba Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless is its stickless design, which replaces the traditional joystick with a button-based or trackball input system. This alternative control method allows for greater flexibility and precision for certain types of fighting game players who prefer a non-joystick interface. The Leveless technology is designed to address common issues associated with joystick-based control, including potential fatigue or discomfort during extended play sessions.

• Trackball or Button Control: The trackball-based system or button control replaces the traditional stick’s directional movement, giving players a new way to control movement and attacks. The trackball design ensures smooth, fluid movement in games that require precise directional input, while the button control system allows for more customizable command configurations. This innovative design choice is ideal for players who want to explore a different way of playing and may suit players who prefer the feel of a mouse-style control over the traditional joystick.

• Premium Sanwa Components: The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless continues Qanba’s tradition of using high-end components. It features Sanwa Denshi OBSF-30 buttons, known for their responsiveness and durability, as well as Sanwa JLF parts (where applicable). These premium components ensure that even with a non-traditional design, the performance remains at the highest level, providing an intuitive and responsive gaming experience.

• Sleek, Premium Design: The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless retains the signature premium look of the Obsidian series, featuring a glossy, tempered glass top panel and a durable metal frame. The reflective glass top, paired with clean lines and a matte-black finish, gives the stick a modern, sophisticated aesthetic that appeals to players who appreciate both form and function. The glossy surface also showcases the stick’s premium craftsmanship, making it stand out in any setting.

• Ergonomic Layout: Despite the innovative input method, the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless retains a comfortable and ergonomic design. The button layout is optimized to reduce hand fatigue during long sessions, and the design ensures that the controls are easily accessible for players. The trackball or button configuration is arranged in a way that minimizes strain on the player’s hands, ensuring a comfortable and fluid experience, whether you’re playing at home or competing in a tournament.

• Customizable Artwork: Just like other models in the Obsidian series, the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless features a removable acrylic top panel that allows players to customize the artwork. Whether you want to showcase your favorite characters, gaming franchises, or personal designs, the ability to swap out artwork is a great way to make the arcade stick uniquely yours.

• Platform Compatibility: The Qanba Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless offers broad compatibility with major platforms, including PlayStation 4 (PS4), PlayStation 3 (PS3), and PC. This makes it versatile for players who play on multiple systems, whether in casual settings or competitive tournaments. With simple plug-and-play functionality, the stick ensures compatibility across various platforms, giving players seamless transition between different gaming environments.

• Improved Storage and Portability: The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless also includes a cable storage compartment at the back of the unit. This convenient feature allows you to neatly store the detachable USB cable when it’s not in use, making it easier to transport the stick and keeping the cable safe from damage. The overall design is compact and portable, ideal for gamers who need to travel to tournaments or gaming events.

History & Legacy:

The Qanba Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless was developed as part of the Obsidian 2 series, which was itself an evolution of the original Qanba Obsidian. The Obsidian 2 series improved on the design of its predecessor, offering better ergonomics, a sleeker look, and enhanced performance features. The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless, as the name suggests, is a stickless variant of the Obsidian 2, targeted at players who wanted to break away from traditional joystick input methods.

The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless introduced the Leveless control system, which offers an alternative to the joystick, making it a suitable option for players who prefer non-traditional inputs, such as those who favor trackball-style control or a button-based directional system. This was part of a broader trend in the arcade stick market, where manufacturers began exploring non-stick designs to cater to different playstyles.

• Qanba’s Pioneering Role: Qanba has long been known for pushing the envelope when it comes to designing high-quality, competitive arcade sticks, and the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless continues that tradition. The stickless design represents an innovative leap in how arcade controllers can function, demonstrating Qanba’s commitment to offering diverse solutions to gamers of all preferences.

• Filling a Niche Market: While the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless caters to a niche audience in the competitive gaming community, it stands out for its willingness to experiment with new input methods. The market for stickless controllers has been growing, as many players seek alternative input systems that are tailored to their needs or ergonomic preferences. The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless answered this need by providing a high-performance, customizable alternative that still delivers the premium feel and reliability expected of the Obsidian series.

• Player Reception: The Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless has been received positively by players looking for more ergonomic and personalized control systems. While it is not for every player due to its unconventional design, it has garnered attention from those who are looking to try a different control scheme, especially among competitive fighting game players who want an edge with unique input methods.

Why It's Popular:

• Innovative Stickless Design: The stickless design sets the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless apart from traditional arcade sticks, providing an alternative that caters to players who prefer trackball-style or button-based directional control.

• Premium Sanwa Components: The Sanwa Denshi OBSF-30 buttons and Sanwa parts ensure that even without the joystick, the stick retains the precision and responsiveness that competitive players demand.

• Sleek, Customizable Aesthetic: Like other Obsidian models, the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless is customizable with removable artwork, offering players the chance to make their stick unique. The tempered glass top and metal frame provide a modern and premium look, making it visually appealing and durable.

• Comfort and Customization: The ergonomically designed layout minimizes hand fatigue and discomfort, while the option for trackball or button-based directional control allows players to customize their gameplay experience.

• Versatility Across Platforms: The Qanba Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless works with PS4, PS3, and PC, making it a versatile choice for players across different systems, whether they’re gaming at home or participating in a competitive tournament.

• Stability and Durability: The heavy build ensures that the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless stays firmly in place during gameplay, providing a stable platform for both casual players and professionals.

Conclusion

The Qanba Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless Arcade Stick is a bold and innovative entry into the world of arcade controllers, catering to those who wish to break away from traditional joystick input systems. With its unique stickless design, premium Sanwa components, and customizable features, it stands as a high-performance option for players seeking alternative control methods. Whether you are a competitive fighting game player looking to explore a new input system or someone who values ergonomic design and personalization, the Obsidian 2 Stickless Leveless offers a cutting-edge alternative in the world of arcade sticks.