The 8 Bitdo 64 Bluetooth Controller is on sale at Amazon for just $25.53 ($40). To get the full discount, you’ll need to click on the coupon box on the store page. Only the White Edition is available for this price. The Black Edition has been close to full price since the controller’s July launch.
8 Bitdo designed its reimagined N64 controller in partnership with retro hardware manufacturer Analogue. Revealed with Analog 3D last October, the controller system wound up pre-launch. But with analog 3D prequels finally shipping this week (starting November 18th), now’s a great time to pick up an 8-bit 64 if you don’t already have one.
In addition to Analog 3D, 8-bit 64 is compatible with Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, Android, and PC. If you’re having trouble syncing 8-bit 64-bit to the Switch 2, you may need to download a firmware update for the controller. If you’re a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscriber, the 8 Bitdo 64 is a great and obviously cheaper alternative to the 55 N64 controller sold at the Nintendo Store. It also has much superior ergonomics.
.5 was $25.53 ($40) with coupon
The 8BitDoo 64 Controller is a wireless Bluetooth gamepad that sports all the buttons you’d expect from a device designed to play N64 games but reorganized into a contemporary form factor that resembles the 8BitDoo Ultimate Controller series.
The rework format moves the joystick to the left side of the controller. It’s a Hall-effect joystick with a metal ring, so it should feel as smooth and precise as 8 Bitdo’s other controllers with the same tech. Hall effect sensors eliminate the risk of rod growth, and the metal ring improves over time.
8 Bitdo recreated the surface of the N64 control stick by adding three circular ridges. Thankfully, it has a rubberized stick cap instead of the hard plastic surface of the original. 8 Bitdo also featured an octagonal stick gate, which Nintendo implemented on the N64 controller to mimic the eight-way d-pad. The original D-pad is also in a new location on the new controller, but it still sits in a pocket.
The large A/B buttons and four C buttons match the N64 layout and are the same size/shape. Buttons and triggers have been redesigned to meet modern expectations. The shoulder buttons are labeled R and L like the N64 controller, while the two top triggers are Z buttons. The N64’s Z button was on the back of the middle prong. Dual triggers are helpful if you want to use the controller for games outside of the N64 library.
The N64’s large Start button returns and is joined by three buttons found on many 8-bit Switch controllers: Minus (Select), 8-bit (Home), and Turbo. Once you assign the Turbo function to a button, pressing and holding it registers as repeated taps.
You can completely remap the controls and make other adjustments using the 8-bit Dodo Ultimate software desktop or mobile app. It has two different input modes: S input (switch) and D input. Although it has built-in rumble motors, vibration is limited to analog 3D and switches.
What is Analog 3D?
Analog 3D is the latest FPGA console from the premium retro hardware manufacturer. Unfortunately, pre-orders for the 250 console sold out last October, so interested retro gamers may want to keep an eye out for a possible restock in the coming weeks/months.
The console lets you play your original N64 game cartridges with 100% compatibility in hardware-accurate emulation and 4K resolution. The console has four controller ports for original Nintendo 64 three-prong controllers or third-party wired controllers. It does No It does come with a controller, though, so you might want to grab an 8-bit 64 Bluetooth controller or another controller or two.
If you want a traditional N64 controller form factor for analog 3D, the Hyperkin Captain is a solid budget-friendly option and is available in a variety of translucent color schemes.
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