Razer Freyja and Kraken V4 Pro: A Technical Analysis of Haptic Vibrations Everywhere

I have lost count of the number of Razer products that have passed through my hands over the years: between mice, keyboards, and headphones, the value surely exceeds dozens. I assumed that I had handled and analyzed all kinds of products created by the brand, but I was mistaken – in a very fortunate coincidence, I got my hands on a device that I had never experienced in the past and that proves that the immersion of video games and entertainment can be taken further.

I am talking about the Razer Freyja, a vibrating cushion for gaming chairs. As the description indicates, it induces vibration in the back and buttocks area, with different degrees of intensity, creating an experience reminiscent of a 4D movie. Let’s think of it this way: if controllers like DualSense or Joy-Cons revolutionized 3D vibration in our hands, Freyja applies it to the back of our body.

3D vibrations on the back

It may sound like a gimmick, but my tests prove otherwise and I will try to demonstrate it as best as possible through words. The cushion has two primary built-in systems, quite different from each other: the first, called Audio-to-Haptics, converts any sound coming from the computer into vibration, whether it is from a movie, video game, music or even a YouTube video.

I do not know exactly the technology applied by Razer in this specific field, but I suspect that there is a very small delay (imperceptible to the user) between the computer sound and the vibration; in that small delay, the cushion analyzes the audio and tries to replicate it as best as possible through vibration, somewhat indiscriminately, with special emphasis on the most grandiose moments or with more pronounced beats.

Despite the Audio-to-Haptics working perfectly when it comes to music and ambient sounds, the case changes when we introduce dialogue into the equation, whether it comes from movies or video games. The Controlled mode listed above makes Freyja rarely activate in dialogue contexts, although the solution is not perfect or 100% effective.

And that’s where the second mode of the device comes in. I told you about Audio-to-Haptics, but there are also Sensa HD games, that is, titles that were specifically designed for the cushion. The list is still quite small (hopefully it will increase in the future!), but Razer was kind enough to provide us with a code for Silent Hill 2 Remake.

Hogwarts Legacy and Silent Hill are two compatible games

I also decided to try Hogwarts Legacy, another of the games designed for the device; although I only had the opportunity to play the initial moments, it was a beneficial decision, as the vibrating implementation is completely different.

While Silent Hill 2 Remake took a more subdued approach, diverging from the horror genre, Hogwarts Legacy ventured down a grander path where the excitement never seems to cease. Given my limited time with the game, I decided to quickly summarize the exhilarating moments: dialogues (in a soft version), background music, flying carriage, dragon attack, wind/sea, spells, cart rides at Gringotts, opening vaults, among others.

The standout moment is when the main character has low health, symbolized by a resounding heartbeat faithfully replicated by the Freyja. After healing, this heartbeat fades away, as does the vibration on the back, creating an extraordinary sensory experience, taken to the extreme when paired with the DualSense. These moments repeat over and over again, and these are just a few examples – now, playing without Freyja feels strange, as if a crucial piece is missing.

Check out the current list of compatible games below:
– Hogwarts Legacy
– Silent Hill 2 Remake
– Final Fantasy 16
– Frostpunk 2
– Vendetta Online
More games are on the way.

From an ergonomic point of view, the cushion is quite comfortable, allowing for long gaming sessions without any lumbar consequences. It almost works as an improvised massager, providing very pleasant and relaxing sensations in the body – as I am not particularly tall, Freyja covers me almost entirely, allowing me to enjoy the device in a very intense way.

It has two connectivity modes: 2.4 GHz for PC, Bluetooth for mobile phones, through the Nexus app, and they can be easily switched using physical buttons on the device itself. Using the Nexus app, you can play games installed on your smartphone, taking advantage of Freyja’s haptic vibrations.

**Needs a Larger Game List**

The potential here is enormous, creating an extra layer of immersion that enhances the music, atmosphere, combat, and story of video games. Unfortunately, the game list is still quite small, and I would also like to see more dedicated support for movies – especially in the horror and action genres, the cushion can emphasize moments in a unique way, whether an intense combat or a terrifying jump scare.

Compatibility with other platforms, namely consoles like PS5, Xbox Series, or Nintendo Switch, would also be a plus, giving users the opportunity to enjoy Freyja’s features. But it is evident that the project is still in its early stages, and we will see if the public supports it enough to justify future investments by Razer and game studios.
The price of Freyja is high for the average consumer, selling for €299.99. Despite its satisfying vibrations, it is challenging to justify its value due to the limited number of games designed for it. However, for those willing to invest, the overall experience is exceptional.

**Pros:**
– Comfortable device
– Compatible with movies, games, and music
– Enhances specific moments
– Functions as an improvised massager
– Offers good customization options

**Cons:**
– High price
– Limited list of compatible games
– Not compatible with consoles

**Enter the Kraken V4 Pro Headphones**

The review of the Razer Freyja is only part of the story, as Razer also provided the Kraken V4 Pro headphones with vibrating capabilities. Imagine playing Silent Hill 2 Remake while experiencing vibrations in your hands, back, buttocks, and head. The focus of the Kraken V4 Pro is on delivering HD haptic feedback based on audio, allowing users to feel every sound and movement.

### Discreet vibrations, but still satisfying

The vibrations extend beyond gaming to movies, series, and music through the Audio-to-Haptics system. The feedback is more pronounced in content with intense sound effects, enhancing the overall experience. The device offers different modes that can be adjusted to suit personal preferences.

### The Kraken V4 Pro come with extra hardware

The Kraken V4 Pro headphones come with an Oled Control Hub for adjusting various settings conveniently. The device boasts Razer’s typical quality in design, sound, comfort, and customization. The sound quality is rich and detailed, with THX Spatial Audio for enhanced realism and precise sound location.

The headphones also feature a retractable microphone and are suitable for gaming and casual chats. However, for professional recordings requiring crystal-clear audio, there may be better options available.

However, the most complete headphones Razer has ever made have one negative aspect: the price. Priced at €449.90, they may not be accessible to all consumers. Despite this, the headphones offer a range of features that are considered essential in today’s market.

Razer’s Future Headphone Line

Looking ahead, it is difficult to imagine how Razer could further improve its headphone lineup. With a focus on comfort, design, sound quality, RGB lighting, and ergonomic features, the addition of haptic feedback sets these headphones apart as the ultimate choice for immersive gaming experiences.

While the investment required to experience these headphones to their fullest potential may be out of reach for many players, the sensory stimulation they provide is unparalleled. The question remains whether this level of immersion will define the future of gaming.