PlayStation update: New mini gamepad made for kids

PlayStation's new Mini Wired Gamepad is designed for kids.PlayStation

Sony has released a new PlayStation gamepad made just for kids, but it's so cute adults want to try it too.

PlayStation has partnered with Japanese gaming accessory maker Hori to create the Mini Wired Gamepad, which was made to fit smaller hands while still providing the same gaming experience as previous PlayStation 4 systems.

It is 40 percent smaller than the standard DualShock 4 (DS4) and can be bought at half the price. In its website, Sony added that the new accessory is great for companion play and would make gaming a family experience.

The retro-inspired gamepad has an easy grip feature for smaller hands, making it perfect for kids. It contains all the essential controls from the DS4, including the touchpad button, although not as useful in this smaller accessory. Players would have to use the left or right sticks for certain touchpad inputs. It's also missing the DS4's light bar, stereo headset jack, speaker, dual motors and motion sensor.

While the gamepad is compatible with most PS4 games, these limitations will prohibit the user in playing more action-packed games. But then again, the Mini Wired Gamepad was made for children and it was probably designed to make them stick to more kid-friendly games.

It also comes with a 10-feet cable that would allow players to enjoy the games from their couches, except of course if they have a really big living room.

Those who are not sold with the Hori Mini Wired Gamepad have a couple of other choices. In November, Nacon will also be releasing a new line of colorful compact PlayStation controllers, still aimed at younger players. Some of them feature extra color LEDs for a vibrant see-through look.

@Play, meanwhile, designed two-toned compact controllers, which will be released in December.

The Mini Wired Gamepad will be available for $30 in black, blue and red starting Nov. 6.