Checked out the highly anticipated new product "VADER 5 PRO" and Eva collaboration gamepad at the Flydigi booth [TGS2025]
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/999/G999902/20250928024/
Writer: Hayashi Yuki | 2025/09/28 05:49 (UTC)
Flydigi, known for its high-performance gamepads, is exhibiting at Tokyo Game Show 2025. At the booth, they showcased not only their flagship model “APEX 5,” scheduled for domestic release on October 3, 2025, but also made their first public appearance of the new “VADER 5 PRO” and “VADER 5S.”
Flydigi Booth Thumbnail image No.001 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
In addition to cooling pads for notebooks (left) and Peltier coolers for smartphones (right), the main focus of the booth was clearly the gamepads. Thumbnail image No.002 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025] Thumbnail image No.003 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
While detailed specifications for the VADER 5 PRO and VADER 5S have not yet been disclosed, this article will focus on their appearance and distinctive features. Pricing is expected to be similar to that of the VADER 4 PRO, though with current inflation trends, it’s best to wait for official announcements.
The VADER 5 PRO is located in the center top; the VADER 5S models are on both sides below. Thumbnail image No.004 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
Compared to the current model, VADER 4 PRO, the size and position of the buttons on the VADER 5 PRO have been adjusted. From the front view, the positions of the View button and Menu button are slightly more centered—a change made to reduce accidental inputs.
Front view: The positions of the Display button and Menu button have shifted toward the center of the body. Thumbnail image No.005 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The parts surrounding the analog sticks are now tension adjustment dials for the sticks. Thumbnail image No.006 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
Looking at the back, the expansion buttons on the grip now feature larger paddle-style buttons—giving it a look closer to the flagship APEX 5. Additionally, the Fn button and Turbo button, previously located on the front, have been moved to the rear.
The back features redesigned layout for additional buttons; paddles are detachable. The buttons at the bottom are the Fn and Turbo buttons. Removing the top cover reveals a smartphone holder attachment point. Thumbnail image No.007 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The upper side appears identical to the APEX 5. Thumbnail image No.008 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The VADER 5S is a gamepad licensed by Xbox. It includes an additional Xbox button and Share button on the front, while retaining only two rear expansion buttons. Additionally, it lacks charging contacts and smartphone holder connectors.
Comparison of VADER 5S (left) and VADER 5 PRO (right). The VADER 5S features Xbox and Share buttons. Thumbnail image No.009 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The VADER 5S (left) has only two additional buttons and does not support charging contacts or smartphone holder attachment. The grip design also differs. Thumbnail image No.010 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The underside features a 3.5mm headphone jack, a microphone mute button, and what appears to be a pairing button—though the latter was not clearly explained during our visit. Thumbnail image No.011 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The flagship APEX 5 model was also displayed alongside a special limited-edition collaboration with Evangelion: the APEX 5 Wireless Controller EVA Limited Edition.
APEX 5 Wireless Controller EVA Limited Edition. The package includes the gamepad body, carrying case, accessories, and a card. Thumbnail image No.012 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
This collaboration model uses a vibrant red color scheme and features Asuka’s artwork on the right grip. The system sounds include Asuka’s voice, and the package includes not only the gamepad body but also a carrying case, charging stand, and card.
The grip artwork may spark divided opinions. The cover parts have high transparency, making the vibrator at the handle tip clearly visible. The rotational vibration feels quite satisfying when active. Thumbnail image No.013 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
Back view: The central switch activates speech. The additional paddle buttons are detachable. Thumbnail image No.014 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The upper structure remains unchanged from the standard model. Thumbnail image No.015 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
It’s not specified which Asuka is featured in the artwork, but based on hair color, the system voice when powered on (“You’re an idiot!”), and UI design on the package, it appears to be probably Soryu’s version.
The display at the top front shows a percentage—indicating synchronization rate—which can rise up to 400% depending on gameplay. Though there’s no special function tied to reaching 400%, we’re not entirely convinced it’s true…
Charging stand: The design incorporates visual elements inspired by the AT Field. Thumbnail image No.016 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
The base model, APEX 5. Thumbnail image No.017 / Check out the spotlight product “VADER 5 PRO” and the Evangelion collaboration gamepad at Flydigi’s booth [TGS2025]
Flydigi’s gamepads are available at consumer electronics retailers, making them easy to handle and test in person. The compact size makes them suitable even for those with smaller hands. However, since the fit of a gamepad often depends on personal preference, it’s best to try one before purchasing. Given that the APEX 5 is close to its release date, it should be available at stores relatively soon.