One of the few pieces of hardware on display during the Xbox Media Briefing at E3 in Los Angeles was a new arcade control unit from Mad Catz - used on stage with the Xbox One version of Killer Instinct. However, it wasn't in use on the Mad Catz stand, with the company favouring modified, older KI controllers instead.

That didn't stop Pocket-lint from getting a good hands-on with the new Fightstick, and we can assure you that if you take your gaming seriously and plan to buy an Xbox One, you might want to consider increasing your budget to include one of these bad boys.

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While its basic functionality is similar to the existing arcade-style controllers from Mad Catz, this next-generation version adds some significant features - one or two of which are Xbox One specific. For a start, if there are two combatants using the new Fightsticks, the next-gen Kinect can tell which side they are on, thanks to tags on the rear. That means you will automatically be placed in the right starting position for split-screen or 2D fighting games (such as Killer Instinct).

The controller is also customisable to the nth degree. The top flips up to reveal a compartment where you can store spare parts and additional face plates. Want it to be dedicated to Killer Instinct? Easy. Just unscrew the button board and slip in a new fascia. The screwdriver even comes with the stick, nestling in its own groove inside.

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As for the stick itself, the buttons can illuminate, as do the sides. And the rear cable, like with Mad Catz's MLG Pro Circuit Controller, can be unscrewed for easy portability. Although, that said, the Fightstick is a hefty beast, which is why it will also come with a carry strap so you can sling it over your shoulder.

Price is yet to be revealed, but the Mad Catz Arcade Fightstick Tournament Edition 2 for Xbox One will be available from the launch of the console itself, some time in November.