For many dedicated Nintendo Switch enthusiasts, the quest for the perfect portable controller has been a continuous journey. While the original Switch saw a vibrant ecosystem of third-party ‘Joy-Cons’ enhancing comfort and gameplay, the Switch 2’s advanced magnetic connection has, until now, presented a significant hurdle for accessory manufacturers. While the new official Joy-Cons offer improved ergonomics, they still fall short for some, especially when compared to rivals like the Steam Deck. Enter Abxylute, a controller company poised to revolutionize portable Switch 2 gaming with an ingenious solution that not only promises superior comfort but also a delightful dose of retro nostalgia.
Reimagining Portable Play: Abxylute’s Innovative Approach
Abxylute recently announced two groundbreaking portable controller options for the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch via Kickstarter. Their innovation lies in a departure from the traditional slide-on Joy-Con mechanism. Instead, these new offerings are essentially ‘shells’ into which the entire Switch 2 console slides. A simple USB-C connection at the shell’s base establishes a wired link to the integrated controller halves, ensuring minimal latency and a stable connection while still utilizing the console’s built-in screen. This design not only provides a more substantial grip but also opens the door for unique form factors.
Embrace Nostalgia: The GameCube-Inspired N9C
Among Abxylute’s new lineup, the N9C stands out as a true homage to retro gaming. Designed with the iconic aesthetics of the original Nintendo GameCube controller, the N9C boasts the familiar stick and button layout, complete with the characteristic color scheme. While deeply rooted in nostalgia, it doesn’t shy away from modern conveniences. Users will find contemporary additions like dedicated home buttons and a more fully-featured D-Pad and right stick, surpassing the original GameCube controller’s limitations. For those yearning to experience GameCube classics on the Switch 2 via Switch Online, the N9C promises to be an unparalleled portable solution.
Versatility Meets Performance: The N6 and Shared Features
For gamers preferring a more contemporary feel, Abxylute also introduces the N6 portable controller. This model adopts a widely popular Xbox 360-style layout, akin to the acclaimed CRKD Nitro Deck 2, offering a familiar and comfortable experience for a broad range of titles. Both the N9C and N6 share a suite of ‘power user’ features designed to elevate the gaming experience. These include drift-proof sticks – capacitive on the N9C and Hall effect on the N6 – ensuring precision and longevity. A built-in gyroscope enhances motion control capabilities, while optional macro buttons provide customizable command shortcuts. The N9C further distinguishes itself with satisfyingly clicky micro-switch buttons, adding to its premium feel. While either controller is versatile enough for any game, the N9C’s GameCube form factor undeniably holds a unique appeal for retro enthusiasts.
Navigating the Price Point: Value for Innovation
As these Kickstarter campaigns are yet to launch, precise pricing remains under wraps. However, insights from the competitive landscape offer a reasonable expectation. Similar high-quality third-party accessories, such as the Nitro Deck 2, retail for around $99. Abxylute’s own HandheldDIY J6 for the original Switch also sits at a comparable $95 (off-sale price). While this might seem a premium compared to some budget third-party Joy-Cons for the original Switch, the advanced features, innovative design, and current scarcity of quality Switch 2 alternatives suggest a compelling value proposition. With other magnetic plug-and-play options like the unreleased NYXI Hyperion 3 projected to cost upwards of $126.99 (and $170 after early bird deals), Abxylute’s shell-based controllers, despite lacking the magnetic ‘snap,’ offer a feature-rich and potentially more accessible upgrade for official Joy-Con 2 users.
Abxylute’s forthcoming controllers represent a significant leap forward for Nintendo Switch 2 portable gaming. By cleverly circumventing the challenges of the new magnetic connection with an innovative shell design, they offer both enhanced comfort and a unique blend of modern features with a cherished retro aesthetic. For gamers seeking a more engaging and personalized handheld experience, especially those with a soft spot for GameCube classics, Abxylute’s N9C and N6 are poised to be game-changers.
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