Sony’s PS5 fight stick FlexStrike emerges with new details and 2026 release date

Sony Interactive Entertainment is giving fans an early Evo gift with a first look at the company’s first fight stick, the FlexStrike. The arcade stick-like controller, previously known as Project Defiant, had been attached to the upcoming 4v4 fighting game, Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and was previously teased during Sony’s June 2025 State of Play.

Now, more details have emerged regarding the fight stick, with Sony providing in-depth information about the controller’s specs and features, and offering a closer look at the sleek tech in a new video.

The FlexStrike will be compatible with the PlayStation 5 and PC via a wired connection or wirelessly using a PlayStation Link; the controller will boast low latency across both wireless and wired connections for seamless gameplay. And for those players looking to take the fight stick to a tournament (like Evo) or their friend’s house, Sony will sell a sling carry case designed specifically for the FlexStrike.

Check out more features from Sony below:

• Simultaneous PlayStation Link audio: On PS5, FlexStrike wireless fight stick offers a seamless fighting game experience. Players can use a single PS Link USB adapter to connect the FlexStrike wireless fight stick and a Pulse Elite wireless headset or Pulse Explore wireless earbuds simultaneously on PS5, for an ultra-low latency audio and voice chat experience in the heat of battle.
  • FlexStrike wireless fight stick will feature an updated PlayStation Link USB adapter that is compatible with USB-C ports. 

• Dual FlexStrike wireless fight stick connections: On PS5, connect two FlexStrike wireless fight sticks via a single PS Link USB adapter for couch competition or co-op. 
• Durable and ergonomic design: The FlexStrike wireless fight stick features a unique, ergonomic design with comfortably angled surfaces and a non-slip base for a firm foundation. It also has a high-quality custom-designed digital stick. 
• DualSense controller connectivity: You can keep your DualSense wireless controller on PS5 connected at the same time as the FlexStrike wireless fight stick, if you’d like to use it as an additional controller for navigating menus between fights.
• Adjustable controls and DualSense inputs: The FlexStrike wireless fight stick features the same game control inputs found on the DualSense controller**, plus a touchpad. There’s also additional customization options – you can switch directional inputs with a built-in lever mode switch, or lock in the layout and prevent accidental inputs during a match with a dedicated lock button.
  • For players who choose to connect just the FlexStrike wireless fight stick to their PS5, a quick press of the PS button can also wake the connected PS5 console once synced.

Sony’s FlexStrike will be released sometime in 2026, which, interestingly enough, is the same year that Sony, Marvel Games, and Arc System Works’ Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls is set to be released on PlayStation 5 and Windows PC.

But before then, players can catch a glimpse of the new fight stick at Evo 2025 in Las Vegas Aug. 1-3, where the controller will be displayed for the first time at the Fight Stick Museum and the Arc System Works booth.

Additionally, Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls will be playable to fans for the first time at the Arc System Works booth, making its Evo debut.