With Zwift Play, users can take control of the game from the handlebars - making contortions on the roller trainer to reach the tablet, smartphone or keyboard a thing of the past.
Zwift control
Until now, the easiest way to control Zwift was via the companion app. Those who use the app are more active and ride two to three times more per month than those who do not use the companion app. Despite the benefits, users of the Zwift Companion App are in the minority. Most indoor training setups are designed to optimise cooling and maximise screen size. The controls are therefore often more than an arm's length away. Zwift Play makes interaction easier, as the play controls are now located directly on the handlebars.
Zwift Play
The Zwift Play controllers are attached to the handlebars with silicone straps. They can be quickly attached or removed as required. This is particularly important for people who use their bike indoors and outdoors. Once attached, the controllers give you full control. A directional pad on the left-hand controller enables seamless navigation through the game menus as well as turns or U-turns while riding through the virtual worlds of Zwift.
The Zwift Play Controller in detail
- Scope of delivery: Two controllers for the handlebars, a Y-cable for charging both controllers at the same time
- Attachment to the handlebars with silicone straps
- Sweat resistant
- Temperature resistant
- Quick assembly and disassembly
- Battery life approx. 20 hours
Zwift Play also brings new functions to Watopia
The shortcut buttons on the right-hand controller are arranged so simply that the driver can keep their eyes on the road - or keep them in the game. The buttons are used to select menu items. While driving, you can use them to give ride ons, use power-ups, skip training blocks, teleport to pacer groups and much more.
Steering and braking
Both controllers also have paddles for steering and braking. The paddle is moved inwards for braking and outwards for steering. At market launch, the Zwift Avatars can already be steered in event and freeride mode to cut corners.
With the steering and braking functions of the Zwift controllers, you can drive even more tactically in races - at least in events in which the steering function is permitted. In other words, if you don't have the new controllers, you might prefer to choose races without the steering function.
Zwift are not the first to bring steering functions into their virtual world for roller trainers. Wahoo has introduced the steering function in Wahoo RGT with the Kickr Steer.
Beta version Zwift Play Game Experience
With the Zwift Play controllers, a new Zwift Play Game Experience Beta is being introduced at the same time. The first of these new modes is the revamped Repack Rush (formerly Repack Ridge). Repack Rush utilises some of the features of the new game controllers on a twisty track where Zwifters must dodge brake blocks, catch boost pads and collect time bonuses. Repack Rush is a fun challenge for anyone who just wants to switch off and have a bit more fun on the reel. Gamification!
Zwift Play: our first test
Zwift invited me to the offices of a PR agency to try out the new controllers for the further gamification of indoor cycling. After a brief introduction, I got straight onto the bike and familiarised myself with the functions. Navigating through the game menu was easy and intuitive, but other things, such as distributing Ride Ons, had to be explained to me first. Normally, this is done through the initial tutorial, which starts after connecting the controllers for the first time. After a few minutes in freeride mode, with steering, braking, distributing Ride Ons and testing the teleportation function, I was familiar with the functions. And with Repack Rush, there is an extra game factor. The mode is very reminiscent of Mario Kart. To get faster, you can drive over the blue arrows, you can collect bonus time and you should avoid the red fields to avoid losing speed.
Conclusion: The Zwift Play controllers take indoor cycling to a new level of gamification. But the controllers can also be a pleasant relief for those who don't like games, as they can also be used to navigate through the menu or determine the direction at junctions, for example.
Zwift Play - how much the fun costs
Zwifters can look forward to new updates to the game in the coming months. During the beta test phase, Zwift Play will be available for a limited time at a reduced price of 99 euros. The recommended retail price is expected to be 149 euros.
Zwift Play is available in the EU, USA and UK exclusively at zwift.com/play.
Sandra Schuberth
Editor
