Okay- so if the epicness of last week wasn’t enough. I was sent our review copy of the Anansi Expert MMO Gaming Keyboard by Razer. The Anansi is the partner for it’s MMO gaming mouse, Naga (which we also reviewed- the molten special ed. add that) which supports the numerous keys needed by MMO gamers.
So here’s the specifications for the Anansi:
- 7 thumb modifier keys
- 5 additional gaming macro keys
- Over 100 programmable Hyperresponseâ„¢ keys with on-the-fly macro recording
- 20 gaming profiles with one-button profile switching
- 16 million color backlight illumination
- Optimized key matrix for optimized ghosting
- Gaming mode option for deactivation of windows key
- Easy access media keys
As for the things that are included in the box:
- Quickstart guide
- Manual
- Razer Stickers
- Razer Certificate of authenticity
As an MMO gamer I appreciated the extra keys that the Anansi has. I didn’t have to keep on switching my keys specially for Cardmon Hero (which I am currently reviewing).
Using the extra keys were hard to get used to since I never really used (or needed) the extra keys before. I actually got to use the 7 thumb modifier keys more since they’re the nearest while the extra gaming keys were only useful when I have about a second or two breathing time in switching my hand position (which I had to do specially whenever I get aggros).
PvPing on the other hand was difficult with the extra keyboard keys because I have to reach out to use them and sometimes I often commit the mistake of pressing the wrong key. On the other hand the thumb modifier keys were the more useful of the two. I had to program the keys first (of course) but they were pretty integral in a lot of my wins in PvP.
The easy access media keys were useful while I was resting after the intense “battles” in the various MMOs I played (I don’t just play Cardmon hero FYI). The keys were pretty handy specially during my post PvP MMO gaming. However they should’ve put the keys on a different place which could’ve made things more convenient.
Recording Macros on the other hand was easy specially now that I got used to it with the Naga. I added a few profiles for the Anansi since I play more than just on MMO. It was convenient specially when I switch games.
The first time I used the Anansi it felt uncomfortable. Using the keyboard really takes time. I would often commit typos whenever I just typed however as I continued to use the keyboard the unease slowly ebbs away. It also helped that the keyboard allows you to set the colors of the keys so that whenever I game at night I can see clearly where my fingers are going to.
I am pretty much satisfied with the Anansi, however one of problems with it is that the material retains your fingerprints. Also my other problem with the Anansi is that the keyboard needs to be plugged into two USB ports. The second USB is required for the keyboard’s lights so it’s not really too important. I also wished that the Anansi had USB slots included because that could pretty much offset the amount of USB it needs to function as a whole.
Overall, the Anansi is a good enough keyboard for those who are looking for a heavy duty gaming keyboard. However considering the other options available (the Razer other keyboards and other brands) the Anansi lacks enough features that can attract those who want more in their MMO keyboards. That’s why I’m saying that if you are on the market for an MMO keyboard, you should get the Anansi, add it on your list of possible purchases.
