At CES 2025, I had the chance to check out some of Mad Catz’s latest products, and it’s clear they’re making a serious return. The highlight of their showcase was the Tournament Edition 3 (TE3) arcade stick, which seems ready to make a big impact in the competitive gaming scene once again.
As someone deeply involved in the Fighting Game Community (FGC), I’m particular about fighting game controllers—they’re essential tools for competitive play. Mad Catz, founded in 1989, became famous for creating affordable, customizable controllers and arcade sticks.They made a name for themselves in the ’90s and 2000s by providing high-quality alternatives to official controllers.
After a rough patch in 2017, Mad Catz has been working hard to make a comeback. With over 30 years of experience designing controllers for iconic games like Street Fighter 2 and Mortal Kombat, their expertise is evident. The TE3 Edition is designed with competitive players in mind, sanwa components, featuring a sturdy, no-nonsense design that’s both simple and functional, with customizable parts. Mad Catz claims it retains the durability they’re known for, which is a huge selling point for players who need reliable gear.It’s exciting to see Mad Catz back in action, especially in a competitive market full of big names and new contenders. With over three decades in the industry, we hope their products continue to stand the test of time.
