This multifunctional keyboard is designed to switch from working to game with one click!

Modern video games can be played on plenty of different platforms – PC, VR, handheld, streaming, to name just a few. However, gaming hardware that also accommodates computer keyboards is rare. Inspired by the Logitech K380, Elvin Aliyev designed his own gaming keyboard with a built-in controller called Switcheroo that he hopes will bring an entirely new experience for those of us who game as much as we surf the web.

The Switcheroo is the size of a regular QWERTY keyboard and comes with a built-in input control and direction pads in opposite corners, resembling a wider interface of the prototypical game controller. Along the keyboard’s topmost edge, users can find the RB button just above the input control pad and the LB button above the direction pad. Aliyev designed Switcheroo for the occasional gamer who also uses their keyboard for designing and artwork, ideal for those WFH lunch hours that could be spent playing video games instead. To make the keyboard completely portable, Aliyev designed Switcheroo to be battery-operated and Bluetooth-compatible. Enhancing the keyboard’s portable and ergonomic features, Aliyev integrated finger notches on Switcheroo’s backside for easy carrying. While Switcheroo is not a replacement for a full-sized keyboard, it can still be used as one when it is connected to your gaming platform. When using Switcheroo as either a keyboard or game controller, users simply slide a tiny knob, located to the left of and below the input control pad, to indicate their preference and the keyboard adapts accordingly.

Aliyev also incorporated an empty key that designers and 3D software engineers can program themselves to create shortcuts or access hidden features. Situated in the bottom-left part of Switcheroo, Aliyev repositioned the ESC key so that it’s conveniently located next to other frequently used keys for designers and engineers, like the ALT key and his new empty key. Bridging work and play, Aliyev designed a keyboard for the gamer in all of us.

Designer: Elvin Aliyev

Designed for non-gamers, this controller fits in your pocket and connects to your smartphone for gaming on-the-go!

Calling all non-gamers! There’s a new portable controller designed just for us. I’ve never been much of a gamer. That’s not to say, I don’t like playing video games. I think it’s safer to say gamers don’t like playing me. Mario Kart gets kind of boring once everyone has no choice but to watch my character finish their second lap five minutes after everyone else crossed the finish line. Maybe that’s why we’re always “short on controllers.” Anyway – Elvin Aliyev designed the Psistick controller for those of us who, like myself, enjoy video games, but get the “Wrong Way” alert way too often to feel comfortable sharing.

As described by Aliyev, “Psistick is a portable controller for IOS and Android, for non-gamers who like to play.” The modest design and mere size of Psistick indicate that Aliyev didn’t design the controller for a gamer’s primary use, but instead for on-the-go or amateur gaming needs. The designer’s Psistick controllers come in either speckled black or slate white and feature the usual components that fill up your typical video game controller: a start button, left and right triggers, input-control and direction pads, and a button for Bluetooth connectivity. The intuitive layout of Psistick also further heightens the ergonomic functionality of the device. It’s been years since I’ve owned my own gaming console, but, just like learning how to ride a bike sticks with you, I still remember what each switch means and how to work my way around the main menu, just giving some credit where credit’s due – I digress. In addition to the controller’s intuitive interface, Psistick measures out to be around three-quarters of the height of a newer iPhone model. The whole controller can fit in the palm of a user’s hand, which makes Psistick extremely portable, easily fitting inside even smaller pockets. Aliyev also incorporated a jack along the outer edge of Psistick for Micro-USB B connectivity so that even when Bluetooth isn’t feasible, dual-gaming and console connectivity are always available.

Even though I still haven’t shaken off my amateur gaming chops, with a miniature controller like Psistick I can play video games on-the-go or even practice Mario Kart in the comfort of my own home without the eyes of the ghosts inside Luigi’s mansion sneering at my every lap. Psistick also offers a low-maintenance and inexpensive alternative to larger gaming systems designed for frequent use, but that’s not to say it’s the perfect controller for everyone. Aliyev even alerts gamers everywhere, “[The] portable controller [is] for non-gamers who like to play. Do not buy if you are a gamer. Buy [Psistick] if you like to play.” Non-gamer? Check. Like to play? Check. Sign me up!

Designer: Elvin Aliyev