Clear Plexi Cover for Hori RAP4 Kai, RAPV

 It is important to note that the contemporary Hori RAP series does not accommodate custom artwork, necessitating the removal of the top artwork panel using a heat gun.

HORI RAP 4 Kai Arcade Stick: Description and History
The HORI RAP 4 Kai (Real Arcade Pro 4 Kai) is a premium, high-performance arcade stick designed for fighting game enthusiasts and competitive players. Released by HORI, a well-known Japanese manufacturer specializing in gaming peripherals, the RAP 4 Kai is one of the most popular choices for those looking for a reliable and durable arcade stick for PlayStation and PC gaming.

Design & Features:
Layout: The HORI RAP 4 Kai follows the traditional arcade layout with a 8-button configuration and a joystick, designed to replicate the feel and experience of arcade cabinets.

Joystick: The stick is equipped with a Hori Hayabusa lever, known for its precise and responsive feel, which is a hallmark of high-end arcade sticks. It offers smooth and accurate control, perfect for fighting games that demand quick reflexes and sharp inputs.

Buttons: The RAP 4 Kai features Hori’s Hayabusa buttons, which are designed to provide tactile feedback, durability, and speed, ensuring quick reactions during intense gaming sessions.

Compatibility: The HORI RAP 4 Kai is compatible with PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, and PC (via USB). This broad compatibility makes it an excellent choice for players of various platforms and gives it flexibility for tournaments, which often feature multiple gaming systems.

Build Quality: The arcade stick has a solid, high-quality build. The sturdy construction and weighted body ensure stability during gameplay, reducing any wobbling during intense action.

History & Legacy:
The HORI RAP 4 Kai is part of the HORI Real Arcade Pro (RAP) series, which has long been associated with high-quality arcade sticks for competitive players. HORI has been making arcade sticks since the 2000s, and their RAP series quickly became a staple for competitive fighting game players, especially in the Street Fighter and Tekken communities.

Released in 2016, the RAP 4 Kai is the successor to the RAP 3 and is an updated version of the earlier models with a more modern design and improvements. While the RAP 3 was already known for its quality, the RAP 4 Kai refined the feel and added some necessary updates for the newer generation of fighters and fighting game tech.

The RAP 4 Kai was designed with the PlayStation 4 in mind, offering full support for the latest console's gaming features. This made it one of the first official arcade sticks to be compatible with PS4 after its launch, alongside the PS3 and PC.

It became a favourite among Street Fighter V and Tekken 7 players, as these games were dominant in the competitive scene at the time of its release.

While it has been succeeded by newer models in the Real Arcade Pro line, such as the HORI RAP 5 series, the RAP 4 Kai remains a highly regarded arcade stick for its solid construction, responsive controls, and versatility across different platforms.

Why It's Popular:
Affordability: Compared to other high-end arcade sticks, the HORI RAP 4 Kai provides excellent value for money. It balances the cost with performance, making it accessible to both newcomers and seasoned fighting game veterans.

Customization: Like many high-end arcade sticks, the RAP 4 Kai supports customization of parts such as the joystick and buttons, allowing players to upgrade to their preferred components if desired.

Tournament Standard: The RAP 4 Kai is often seen at local tournaments, professional competitions, and in online play. Its reputation for reliability and consistency makes it a trusted choice for players at various levels of competitive fighting.

Overall, the HORI RAP 4 Kai is a standout in the arcade stick market, combining comfort, precision, and affordability for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive fighter, the RAP 4 Kai delivers an authentic arcade experience.