Sony Unveils Project Defiant, Its First Wireless Fight Stick for PS5 and PC

Sony has unveiled a new arcade-style controller called Project Defiant, designed by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Sony teased it briefly during Wednesday’s State of Play, then followed up with more details in a blog post.

While it doesn’t launch until 2026, it’s already shaping up to be a solid companion for titles like Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection. Project Defiant connects wirelessly to PS5 and PC using PlayStation Link.

Sony says that using PlayStation Link, it can make the most of low-latency for near-instant response for both button taps and stick movement. There’s also a USB-C port if you prefer a wired setup.

Unlike generic arcade sticks, this one is all Sony. It features a custom digital stick built in-house by Sony Interactive Entertainment, mechanical switch buttons, and even a touchpad lifted from the DualSense controller. You can swap out the stick’s restrictor gates too—choose from square, circular, or octagonal layouts depending on your fighting style.

It doesn’t stop at the hardware either. Sony is including a carrying case designed with a special lever gap to protect the stick during transport. Whether you’re heading to a tournament or just storing it at home, it’s a thoughtful touch.

The controller doesn’t have an official name yet, but Sony says that’s coming soon, along with more specs and features. For now, we just know it’s targeting a 2026 release, so fans still have a bit of a wait ahead.