8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller Review: A Retro Gaming Gem
If you are a fan of retro gaming, you may have heard of the NEOGEO mini, a miniature version of the classic arcade system that comes with 40 built-in games. The NEOGEO mini is a great way to relive the glory days of SNK, but it has one major drawback: the built-in controller. The joystick and buttons on the NEOGEO mini are small, stiff, and uncomfortable to use for long sessions. That’s why you need a better alternative: the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller.
The 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller is a wireless gamepad that is designed to replicate the original SNK NEOGEO CD controller, which is widely regarded as one of the best controllers ever made. It features a classic click-style joystick, four face buttons, two shoulder buttons, and a turbo function. It is compatible with Windows, Android, and the NEOGEO mini via Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, or USB-C. It is also officially licensed by SNK, so you can be sure of its quality and authenticity.
In this article, we will review the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller in detail, covering its features, benefits, drawbacks, and how it compares to other retro controllers on the market. We will also share some customer reviews and provide a link to buy it online. By the end of this article, you will have a clear idea of whether this controller is worth your money or not.
Features of the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller
The 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller has many features that make it stand out from other retro controllers. Here are some of the main ones:
– Remake of the micro-switch joystick: The joystick on this controller is not just a replica, but a remake of the original micro-switch joystick that was used on the NEOGEO CD controller. This means that it has the same clicky feel, sound, and responsiveness as the original. The joystick also has a rubber grip for better control and comfort.
– Added bumpers and turbo function: The controller has two extra shoulder buttons that can be used for additional functions or as triggers. It also has a turbo function that can be activated by holding down the star button and pressing any other button. This allows you to perform rapid-fire actions in games that require it.
– Button layout swap: The controller has a button layout swap feature that lets you switch between two different layouts: ABCD or BACD. This is useful for games that have different button configurations depending on the region or version. You can change the layout by holding down the select button and pressing left or right on the joystick.
– Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, and wired connectivity: The controller can connect to your device via three different methods: Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, or wired USB-C. Bluetooth is compatible with Windows and Android devices, while 2.4G wireless is compatible with the NEOGEO mini and Windows devices. Wired USB-C is compatible with all devices that support USB-C input. The controller comes with a 2.4G adapter, a USB-C cable, and a USB-A to USB-C adapter.
– Rechargeable battery: The controller has a built-in 300mAh Li-on battery that can last up to 35 hours on a single charge. It takes about an hour to fully charge via USB-C.
Benefits of the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller
The 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller offers many benefits for retro gamers who want to enjoy their favorite games on modern devices or on the NEOGEO mini. Here are some of the main ones:
– Authentic retro gaming experience: The controller gives you an authentic retro gaming experience by recreating the look, feel, and sound of the original SNK NEOGEO CD controller. You can play games like The King of Fighters, Metal Slug, Samurai Shodown, and more with the same level of precision and satisfaction as you did back in the day.
– Versatile and compatible: The controller is versatile and compatible with various devices and platforms. You can use it with Windows PCs, Android phones and tablets, and the NEOGEO mini console. You can also switch between different connection modes depending on your preference and availability.
– Comfortable and ergonomic: The controller is comfortable and ergonomic to hold and use for long periods of time. The joystick has a rubber grip that prevents slipping and fatigue, while the buttons are responsive and easy to press. The controller also has a lightweight and compact design that fits well in your hands.
– High-quality and durable: The controller is high-quality and durable, made from sturdy plastic materials that can withstand wear and tear. It also has an official license from SNK, which guarantees its authenticity and quality.
Drawbacks of the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller
The 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller is not without its flaws, however. Here are some of the drawbacks that you should be aware of before buying it:
– Limited compatibility with original hardware: The controller is not compatible with the original NEOGEO hardware, such as the AES or MVS systems. It is only compatible with the NEOGEO mini console, which is a newer and smaller version of the arcade system. If you want to use the controller with the original hardware, you will need to buy a separate adapter or mod your system.
– No vibration or motion features: The controller does not have any vibration or motion features, which may be disappointing for some gamers who want more feedback and immersion. The controller also does not have any analog sticks, which may limit its functionality for some modern games that require them.
– Expensive compared to other retro controllers: The controller is relatively expensive compared to other retro controllers on the market, costing around $50 on Amazon. This may be too pricey for some gamers who are on a budget or who want to buy multiple controllers for multiplayer games.
Comparison of the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller with Other Retro Controllers
The 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller is not the only retro controller available on the market. There are many other options that you can choose from, depending on your preferences and needs. Here are some of the most popular ones and how they compare to the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller:
| Product | Price | Connection | Style | Compatibility | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller | $49.99 | Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, USB-C | NEOGEO CD | Windows, Android, NEOGEO mini | Authentic retro gaming experience, versatile and compatible, comfortable and ergonomic, high-quality and durable | Limited compatibility with original hardware, no vibration or motion features, expensive compared to other retro controllers |
| 8Bitdo SN30 Pro+ | $49.99 | Bluetooth, USB-C | SNES | Windows, Android, Switch, Raspberry Pi, Steam | All-around best wireless retro controller, customizable and adjustable, long battery life, dual analog sticks and triggers | Not compatible with original hardware, no click-style joystick |
| Xbox One Wired Controller | $66.00 | USB | Xbox One | Windows, Raspberry Pi, Steam | All-around best wired retro controller, reliable and responsive, industry-standard quality, modern console feel | Not compatible with Android or NEOGEO mini, expensive for a wired controller |
| Retro-Bit Official Sega Saturn USB Controller Pad (Model 2) | $19.99 | USB | Sega Saturn | Windows, Mac, Linux, Raspberry Pi, Switch | Best wired retro controller for Sega fans, authentic Sega Saturn design and feel, six face buttons and shoulder buttons, affordable price | Not wireless or Bluetooth compatible, no analog sticks or triggers |
| Suily NES USB Controller | $11.99 (2-pack) | USB | NES | Windows, Mac, Linux, Raspberry Pi | Best budget retro controller for NES fans, simple and classic design and feel, two face buttons and directional pad, low price for two controllers | Not wireless or Bluetooth compatible, no shoulder buttons or analog sticks |
Customer Reviews of the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller
The 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller has received mostly positive reviews from customers who have bought and used it. Here are some of the representative reviews from Amazon:
– “I love this controller! It feels great in the hands and works flawlessly with my NEOGEO mini. The joystick is clicky and responsive, just like the original. The buttons are also smooth and easy to press. The battery life is excellent and the Bluetooth connection is stable. I highly recommend this controller to anyone who wants to play retro games on their PC or Android device as well.”
– “This controller is a must-have for any SNK fan. It looks and feels like the real deal. The build quality is superb and the wireless functionality is convenient. It works great with my Windows laptop and my Android phone. I can play all my favorite NEOGEO games with ease and comfort. The only downside is that it does not work with my original AES system, but that’s not a big deal for me.”
– “This controller is a disappointment for me. It does not work well with my NEOGEO mini console. It often disconnects or lags during gameplay. The joystick is also too loose and inaccurate for some games. The buttons are also too mushy and hard to press. The controller looks nice but it does not perform well. I regret buying it.”
Conclusion: Is the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller Worth It
Conclusion: Is the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller Worth It?. It is compatible with Windows, Android, and the NEOGEO mini via Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, or USB-C. It offers an authentic retro gaming experience, versatile and compatible connectivity, comfortable and ergonomic design, and high-quality and durable materials.
However, the controller also has some drawbacks, such as limited compatibility with original hardware, no vibration or motion features, and expensive price compared to other retro controllers. It may not be suitable for gamers who want to use it with the original NEOGEO systems, who want more feedback and immersion from their controller, or who are on a tight budget.
Therefore, the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller is worth it if you are looking for a wireless retro controller that can give you a faithful and satisfying recreation of the classic SNK NEOGEO CD controller. It is especially recommended for fans of the NEOGEO mini console, who want to enhance their gaming experience with a better controller. It is also a great choice for gamers who want to play retro games on their Windows or Android devices with a wireless and ergonomic controller.
If you are interested in buying the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller, you can find it on Amazon by clicking [here]. You can also check out other products from 8Bitdo, a leading brand in retro gaming accessories, by visiting their official website [here].
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller and whether it is worth your money or not. Thank you for reading and happy gaming!
Conclusion: Is the 8Bitdo NEOGEO Wireless Controller Worth It?
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