Just one more level.

How many times have you pushed beyond the physical pain of bloodshot eyes, numb thumbs and aching forearms as you have indulged your inner gaming demon to play just one more level. It is at times like these my brothers and sisters that you reach for the two liter bottle of cream soda and chips for the sustenance to see you through. Now I want to tell you about an accessory for your PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360 controllers, an accessory that can help you through these tough times and help to extend your playing time.

The XtendPlay accessory is a hardened plastic casing for your controller. It takes some effort to push the controller into the casing so you can be confident it is not going to come flying out into your flat panel screen. The purpose of the XtendPlay accessory is to alleviate the strain on your arms by allowing you to rest the controller against you gamer six-pack instead of holding your arms in front of you. This is achieved by the ten centimeters of plastic that extends below the controller and it has decently rounded corners and elegant curves to make it more comfortable.

I tested the XtendPlay out playing Battlefield 3 and my game of the year, Lord of the Rings: War in the North, using my DualShock controller for my PlayStation 3. Whilst playing Battlefield 3 I felt the precise control I needed over the analogue stick was impeded by the XtendPlay casing. Perhaps if I had larger hands it would not have been an issue, but for me it detracted from the experience of the game. On the flip side for young kids the XtendPlay offers good protection for your precious controller. The rubber housing should protect it from small drops and the occasional flinging across the room.

My experience improved whilst playing Lord of the Rings: War in the North where you don’t need precision analogue control. I could relax with the XtendPlay resting comfortably on me and pound the light and heavy attack buttons to dispatch the evil Orcs. It will certainly help in my quest to keep the people of Middle Earth free!

The XtendPlay accessory is something you are either going to love or hate. If you are an avid gamer who relishes precise control over the analogue sticks then this is not a good fit for you. If you are looking into this accessory for other genres of games then it is worth a look. Wishing you many fun filled hours of gaming, now back to that last level.

The XtendPlay accessory is available for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 controllers and costs £14.95. If you are in the market for some interesting controllers check out these PS3 Controllers or for controller accessories we found these Kontrol Freek ones that we hope to review soon.