Tech • 12h ago
Razer Boomslang 20th Anniversary Mouse Review: For Collectors
**Razer Boomslang 20th Anniversary Mouse Review: A Blast from the Past for Collectors**
In the early 2000s, gaming peripherals were not as sophisticated as they are today. The Xbox's bulky Duke controller and the N64's infamous three-pronged controller were the norm. Amidst this era of gaming innovation, Razer's Boomslang mouse was born. This unusual gaming mouse is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and we're taking a closer look at whether it still has what it takes to impress.
At first glance, the Boomslang is a far cry from modern gaming mice. Its low-slung, wide design is a throwback to a bygone era. However, when you hold it, you'll realize that it's not as bad as it looks. The shape is designed for a specific grip style, where your thumb and pinky fingers fit into the side crevices, while your middle and index fingers rest on the two main buttons. It takes some getting used to, especially if you're accustomed to resting your middle finger on the right-click button.
To put the Boomslang through its paces, I paired it with some classic games from the early 2000s, including Halo, Counter-Strike, Quake 2, and Half-Life. To navigate these games with any level of agility, you'll need to adopt a fingertip-only grip, where your thumb and pinky fingers slide into the side buttons for added stability. The mouse wheel is set far back, making it difficult to use your middle finger to scroll. Instead, you'll need to adjust your grip to place your fingertips directly next to the wheel.
While the Boomslang may not be the most ergonomic mouse by today's standards, it's still a functional gaming peripheral. If you're a collector looking to add a piece of gaming history to your collection, the Boomslang is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for a mouse that can keep up with modern gaming demands, you may want to look elsewhere.
In Nigeria, where gaming culture is rapidly evolving, the Boomslang's retro appeal may resonate with collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the early days of gaming. However, for everyday gamers, it's essential to consider the limitations of this ancient design. Nevertheless, the Boomslang remains an interesting relic of the past, and its 20th anniversary is a testament to the innovation and creativity that defined the early days of gaming.