CM4 Catalyst Cases – Review

If you visit any local store that sells video games, you will most likely see an entire shelf, if not a whole aisle, dedicated for gaming accessories.  While this dedicated space in stores will contain everything from Microsoft Points to worthless Wii plastic sporting equipment, game and controller cases will probably dominate most of this space.  While the word “premium” is slapped on the vast majority of these cases, you will be hard pressed to find a Wii remote case being described as “luxury” or “classy.”  CM4 aims to take gaming accessories to a high-class level.

Without question, the presentation of these Catalyst cases are top notch.  The packaging gives each unit a high-end aesthetic and even supports a touchy-feely pass through window.  Although you won’t find too many CM4 cases on store shelves, it is not hard to see how well they stand out from all the rest. 

We were able to spend time with two cases from CM4: the Wii remote with MotionPlus case, and the DSi case.

The Wii remote with MotionPlus case is available in a few different colors and retails for $20.  When installed, the case definitely looks like an impressive and serious case.  The soft-touch perforated fabric is comfortable but actually reduces grip as compared to the standard Nintendo case as it is much smoother.  But this shouldn’t truly be seen as a negative, but rather, just different.  This Catalyst cover provides an overall different weight and feel to the basic Nintendo design.

If you watch the youtube video from the link posted above, you will notice how easy it is to attach and remove the unit.  Be warned, however, that users might have some initial difficulty attaching the Catalyst case.  The tightness of the stitched design allows for very little wiggle room, which is a desired bullet point, but can make installation difficult.  This task is somewhat alleviated through the use of the unit’s rear zipper and button system.  Like zipping up your jacket, the user will zipper up the case to secure the Wii remote then block the end from coming loose by snapping the button.  The zipper also remains hidden behind overlapping flaps to create a more uniform look.  Overall, it is a good system and isn’t too difficult to work with. One thing to keep in mind, if you are using a third party battery pack, like a Nyko unit, the battery cover’s grippy design will create more of a hassle to install. 

Besides the initial tightness, the user might actually have the most trouble removing the MotionPlus from Nintendo’s sleeve.  If you purchase Wii Sports Resort, for example, the MotionPlus dongle is pre-installed in the Nintendo Wii remote case…aka, the MotionPlus comes stuck inside the Nintendo condom case.  Getting to this little doohickey will take some finesse and is no fault on CM4 whatsoever.  But for some, this might be the biggest challenge.

It is also a wonder as to why only a MotionPlus model is the only Wii Remote case available.  Only a few games support Nintendo’s extra peripheral such as Wii Sports Resort and Red Steel 2.  It is not the end of the world, however, because the bottom of the case is open to further support whatever other accessories need to be attached, like a nunchuk.  But without a MotionPlus installed, it just looks like dead skin at the end of the unit.  The included wrist strap is basically the same as Nintendo’s initial design; just slide the clasp to secure it to your wrist.  It is not the locking design of the later Nintendo models.  It should also be noted that there is no hole for the Power Button on the controller case, but can still be accessed by pressing through the designated marking. 

The DSi case is similar to the Wii remote case.  It provides a great presentation, covers the unit very snuggly, and provides a smoother but yet still grippy handle.  The leather design provides a premium touch and all buttons, camera lenses, game slot, stylus, and SD card expansion bay are fully accessible. 

Further promoting mobility, this case also comes with screen protectors.  It actually uses a clever system to successfully install on your DSi screen without the dreaded finger prints or bubbling.  The case itself is composed of two parts that basically snap together to encompass the handheld system. The casing’s thin design does not add bulk to the unit and maintains the system’s portability. It is an easy to install design and offers a high degree of comfort, portability, and luxury style. 

There is no question that these CM4 products are nicely constructed and perform well, but with any luxury product you are going to pay a luxury price.  Depending on the specific case, expect to see a price tag of $20-$25 per case.  This higher price point might seem like a bit much, considering that the Nintendo Wii remote case comes standard with all corresponding purchases and a $20-spot can even buy you a new game, but again, you are getting what you pay for.  If you are looking for a new approach to case design, CM4 will provide what you are looking for.  The product looks and handles great if you are willing to pony up for the extra cost.

Positives:

–          Great presentation

–          Turns gaming into a “luxury”

–          Softer and smoother design

–          Offer a new type of grip/feel as opposed to the standard Nintendo design

–          DSiXL and PSPGo cases available as well

–          Multiple colors available

–          1 year warranty

Negatives:

–          Only MotionPlus model available – why not just a standard Wii Remote case?

–          Might be a little difficult to initially install

–          Higher price point

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