Razer has undeniably left a significant mark on PC gaming. As an early adopter of peripherals specifically designed for gamers, rather than repurposing standard computer devices, the brand revolutionized the market. Their 2005 mouse, the Boomslang, was a groundbreaking release, heralding an era of PC gaming dominance and establishing a globally recognized lifestyle brand.
To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Razer has reintroduced the Boomslang as a special, limited-edition release. Priced at a staggering US$1,337, it’s a price that, surprisingly, holds a certain appeal.
Before delving into the mouse itself, it’s worth addressing the gaming-themed price. For those who grew up playing PC games, the pricing strategy is a clear nod to Razer’s PC gaming heritage, reflecting how gamers communicate online. While undeniably unconventional, the price point serves a purpose.
Razer has embraced this concept further by limiting the production to only 1,337 individually numbered mice, offering transparency on the exact quantity sold. This is a fun, albeit costly, gimmick. Despite the price, which rivals that of a decent laptop from a few years ago, it’s evident that Razer has invested significant effort into this mouse.
Now that I’ve had the chance to examine one, let’s explore the overall experience and what this premium price tag entails. Purchasing the new Razer Boomslang essentially grants you two items: a functional mouse and a unique piece of wall art. The mouse arrives in a collector’s edition box befitting its price.
For those who missed out on the initial release, a final opportunity exists. Razer is releasing a limited quantity on June 3rd, and this appears to be the final drop. A small number of units became available after orders linked to resellers were canceled, offering collectors and fans one last chance to acquire this piece.
Let’s move on to the unboxing and examine the limited-edition mice.
The mouse itself is presented in a transparent Razer green, reminiscent of late ’90s Xbox aesthetics. The accompanying dock shares the same transparent green plastic. The package also includes a high-quality USB Type-C to Type-A cable and the usual manuals, all housed within a round, faux-leather box. Razer’s knack for presentation is undeniable, and the Boomslang offers an impressive unboxing experience.
The second component of the unboxing is the limited-edition wall art. This features a Boomslang and its dock, artfully disassembled to reveal the intricate internal technology, ready to be displayed on your wall. Encased in a 14-inch by 20-inch framed box, it showcases one of the most expensive gaming mice ever released.
The frame is well-constructed and makes for an excellent display piece. While the press unit I received is unnumbered, purchasers of the 1,337 units will find their unit’s number at the bottom of the frame, a thoughtful addition to the overall package that embraces the product’s concept with sophistication.
Reflecting on the mouse itself, the new 20th-anniversary version pays homage to the original 2005 Boomslang in numerous ways while updating the experience for contemporary PC gaming. The 2005 Boomslang was revolutionary, boasting an impressive 2,000 dpi, a significant leap from the standard 400 dpi of its contemporaries.
Razer has wisely enhanced the specifications for this iteration. The 20th-anniversary edition features a Razer Focus Pro 45K Optical Sensor Gen-2, ensuring exceptional accuracy and speed, befitting its gaming lineage.
The mouse is now fully wireless, with its silhouette and design deliberately evoking the iconic elements of the original. The primary buttons feature stitched PU leather for the left and right clicks, with similar PU leather accents around the rear of the mouse. Two additional buttons are situated on the sides, also with a PU leather finish. The center houses the familiar scroll wheel, mirroring the 2005 original.
Razer deserves commendation for this design and for reviving the key elements that made the Boomslang unique upon its initial release. It’s important to note that this mouse offers a distinct pointing experience compared to modern Razer peripherals; the flat, symmetrical design may take some adjustment.
“The mouse is now fully wireless, with the overall silhouette and design of the Razer Boomslang made to showcase the various looks and elements that made that first iteration so iconic.”
However, once accustomed to its feel, the mouse is incredibly versatile for gaming, work, and other tasks. The sensor is exceptionally smooth, even at higher DPI settings, which is to be expected given the mouse’s cost. It also boasts an impressive 8,000Hz polling rate, Razer’s fourth-generation optical button switches, and customizable RGB lighting through the renowned Razer Chroma ecosystem.
Since Razer opted for a completely wireless design for this new Boomslang edition, unlike its wired predecessor, a dock is necessary for charging. This is where the special Razer Mouse Dock Pro comes into play.
This dock does more than simply connect your mouse to your PC; it’s essential for keeping the wireless mouse powered. The transparent green plastic allows visibility of the copper coil within the dock, and the charging disc is visible on the underside of the Boomslang.
Razer clearly positions the new Boomslang primarily as a collector’s item that also functions exceptionally well as a modern mouse. During the product briefing, the analogy of a sports car was frequently used: a high-performance vehicle that is a joy to drive but also cherished and protected, often reserved for special occasions. This analogy aptly describes the Razer Boomslang.
The Razer Boomslang is an exceptionally well-crafted mouse, equipped with all the features found in a top-tier gaming peripheral. However, at US$1,337, it’s not a mouse you’d casually toss into your bag for browsing the web at a coffee shop. More affordable options exist for such tasks.
For those who fondly remember the early days of PC gaming, the unique snake-like silhouette and esports-focused features of the original mouse were truly special. This 20th-anniversary edition of the Razer Boomslang delivers a potent dose of nostalgia in the best possible way. It’s targeted squarely at Razer fans and marketed as such.
Initially, upon hearing about the Razer Boomslang’s return at such a steep price, skepticism was natural. Even now, it’s clear this mouse isn’t for everyone. It represents an exceptionally well-made and designed concept, functioning more as a showcase for an era of PC gaming that has long passed, while also celebrating the foundations of the modern gaming landscape. With its display case, distinctive design, and high-end specifications, it truly is the Lamborghini of gaming mice – a supercar that, much like its automotive counterpart, is not a necessity for most.
If you are among those who look back with fondness on this period in gaming history, the Razer Boomslang might be the perfect mouse for you. It may not be used frequently and might primarily reside on a shelf as a display piece, but when it is deployed, you’ll be fully equipped for any challenge a game can present.