This weekend, several top GameCube-inspired controllers for Nintendo Switch, the forthcoming Switch 2, and PC are available at their lowest prices of the year on Amazon. NYXI`s Warrior and Wizard wireless controllers masterfully blend the classic GameCube form factor with contemporary features such as Hall Effect joysticks, customizable back buttons, microswitch triggers, and other personalization options.
NYXI Warrior Lite Bluetooth Controller
NYXI Warrior Lite Wireless Controller (Purple)
Only $40 (previously $50)
Key Features:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth Wireless for Switch 2, Switch, PC, and Mobile devices.
- Equipped with Hall Effect sticks and triggers for superior precision and to prevent drift.
- Features a modern trigger and bumper design, including adjustable trigger locks.
- Includes two remappable back buttons with swappable modules for varied tactile feedback.
- Swappable sticks and gates, allowing a choice between octagonal (GameCube-style) and circular motion.
- Microswitch face buttons and an 8-way microswitch D-pad for crisp, responsive inputs.
- Integrated 6-axis gyroscope for motion controls.
- Adjustable dual-rumble motors and a Turbo function.
- Battery Life: Up to 5 hours on a full charge.
The Warrior Lite brilliantly captures the essence of the original GameCube controller`s shape, layout, and iconic purple hue. While it`s slightly more robust than its classic counterpart, it introduces a wealth of compelling features, making it ideal for both GameCube titles on Switch Online and modern Nintendo games. The customization options, such as interchangeable stick gates and back button styles, enhance its ergonomic appeal. The primary limitation of this model is its relatively shorter battery life.
NYXI Warrior Wireless Controller
NYXI Warrior Wireless Controller
Now $55 (previously $69) | Includes support for original GameCube hardware
Key Features (building on Warrior Lite):
- Enhanced Connectivity: Adds 2.4GHz Wireless support for original GameCube, Wii, and PC (via an included adapter).
- Available in a range of colors: Purple, Orange, and Black.
- Significantly Improved Battery Life: Offers up to 10 hours of gameplay per charge.
The original NYXI Warrior controller, launched last year, expands on the Lite version by providing 2.4GHz wireless compatibility with authentic GameCube and Wii consoles through a dedicated receiver. This model also boasts a larger battery, delivering a comfortable 10 hours of playtime. All three available color options—purple, black, and orange—are part of the current Amazon promotion.
NYXI Wizard Wireless Controller
NYXI Wizard Nintendo Switch 1/2 Wireless Controller
$56 (previously $70) | Supports Switch 2 (Docked Only) / Switch (Handheld & Docked)
Key Features:
- Unique ability to replace Joy-Cons in handheld mode for the original Switch and Switch OLED.
- Compatibility: Bluetooth Wireless for Switch 2 (docked or tabletop modes only), Switch, PC, and Mobile.
- Available in Purple, Black, Silver, and Orange.
- Features Hall Effect sticks and responsive mechanical triggers and bumpers.
- Two remappable back buttons.
- Includes both octagonal and round stick gates (smaller C-sticks require separate purchase).
- Illuminated ABXY buttons.
- 4-way D-pad, 6-axis gyroscope for motion controls, adjustable dual-rumble, and Turbo function.
- Battery Life: Ranges from 6 to 8 hours.
The NYXI Wizard stands out with its capability to function as a Joy-Con replacement for the original Switch and Switch OLED in handheld mode. However, due to the Switch 2`s new magnetic Joy-Con connection, the Wizard is limited to docked or tabletop play with the newer console. It sports slimmer, mechanical triggers and bumpers, along with stylish illuminated ABXY buttons. While it shares the Hall Effect sticks and swappable gates found in the Warrior series, its D-pad and face buttons utilize traditional membranes rather than microswitches. Its battery life is a solid 6-8 hours.
Note: NYXI recently introduced the Wizard 2, which incorporates upgraded TMR joysticks, dual trigger modes, and microswitch face buttons—features initially found in the newer Warrior series. The Wizard 2 is priced at $90 and has not yet received any discounts. For those primarily purchasing a controller for the Switch 2, the Warrior or Warrior Lite are generally more recommended than the original Wizard due to their wider compatibility and feature sets relevant to the new console.
Other Notable GameCube-Style Controllers for Switch & PC
While the NYXI Warrior series excels in customization, other GameCube controllers offer a more traditional experience, albeit with fewer advanced features:
- Official Nintendo GameCube Controller (Switch 2): Approximately $70. This provides the closest feel to the original, updated with a few extra buttons (C button for GameChat, home/menu, and a small ZL button) for modern compatibility. Its tiny ZL button makes it less ideal for many contemporary games.
- PowerA Wireless Controller (Toad): Approximately $70.
- PowerA Wired Controller (Bowser): $20 (down from $28).
- Hori Wireless Controller (Zelda): Approximately $50.
- Hori Wired Controller (Mario): Approximately $29.
- Hori Wired Controller (Zelda): Approximately $33.
Officially licensed GameCube-style controllers from PowerA and Hori often feature Nintendo-themed designs and modernized shoulder and trigger layouts. These controllers typically maintain a form factor closer to the original GameCube`s slimmer profile compared to the NYXI Warrior. It`s worth noting that PowerA has also recently increased the price of its GameCube-style controllers to $70.
For those interested in conventional Switch 2 or PC controllers, keep an eye out for deals on the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 and the recently released 8BitDo Pro 3 Wireless Controllers, both of which are also seeing discounts on Amazon this weekend.