Mobile gaming has reached a point where smartphones can handle graphically demanding, console-quality games, yet touchscreen controls continue to be a weak link. The lack of precision forces players to deal with frustrating input delays, limiting the experience. While many controllers attempt to fix this, most introduce bulky designs, awkward mounting systems, and storage challenges that diminish the convenience of gaming on the go.

The OhSnap MCON, introduced at CES 2025, changes the equation. Designed to be the most compact and portable mobile controller ever, it magnetically attaches to the back of a phone and stays out of the way until needed.

Designer: Josh King & Dave Echem

Click Here to Buy Now: $119 $149 (20% off). Hurry, only 4/2855 left! Raised over $1.5 million. Less than 72-hours to go.

A Controller That’s Always With You

Most mobile controllers need to be detached and stored when not in use, making them impractical for everyday carry. The MCON solves this by magnetically snapping to the back of a phone, ensuring it’s always within reach. Measuring just 5.67 inches long and under three-quarters of an inch thick, it maintains a low profile without compromising functionality.

“OhSnap MCON eliminates the bulk and hassle of traditional controllers, making it a must-have for every mobile gamer,” said OhSnap CEO Dale Backus. Unlike conventional designs that require clamping mechanisms or wired connections, the MCON stays attached at all times, turning a smartphone into a handheld gaming device without extra baggage.

Rather than relying on cumbersome clamps or expandable frames, the MCON features foldable grips that lock into place for comfort, along with a quick-sliding mechanism for instant access. Press both Quick Launch Buttons, and the controller deploys automatically, shifting the phone into an angled position while extending ergonomic grips that lock into place. This seamless transition allows players to go from checking messages to full gameplay in seconds. When a text or call interrupts gameplay, the controller slides shut, instantly returning the phone to its original form without the hassle of detaching or reconnecting anything.

Precision Controls with Hall Effect Joysticks and Silent Buttons

Despite its compact design, the MCON delivers console-quality precision. Many mobile controllers rely on standard analog sticks that are prone to drift, but the MCON features full-sized Hall Effect joysticks. These use magnetic sensors instead of physical contacts, eliminating drift and ensuring long-lasting durability with consistent responsiveness over time.

The button layout is designed for intuitive control. Unlike traditional mechanical switches that produce loud, clicky sounds, the MCON’s silent tactile buttons allow for smooth, discreet gameplay. Whether gaming in a shared space, on a late-night flight, or during a break at work, these buttons provide instant feedback without drawing attention.
Bumper-style triggers further enhance responsiveness, making them ideal for fast-paced games that require split-second inputs. Every design decision in the MCON is centered around a fluid gaming experience without unnecessary bulk.

Universal Compatibility for Any Smartphone

The MCON works with nearly any modern smartphone, regardless of brand or model. iPhone users benefit from native MagSafe compatibility, allowing the controller to attach magnetically without additional hardware.

For Android users and older iPhones, OhSnap includes a Magnetic Adapter Puck, a thin adhesive-backed disc that replicates the MagSafe attachment system. This ensures seamless integration without the need for clamps, brackets, or extra accessories.

With smartphones varying in size and shape, the MCON’s modular spacer system accounts for different camera bump heights. If a phone has a large camera module, stacking two pucks creates a level attachment. Smaller devices may only need a single puck or none at all, ensuring a stable fit.

Support for foldable phones is also in development, with OhSnap confirming that future updates will introduce mounting solutions for devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr.

Bluetooth and Wired Connectivity for Versatile Gaming

To keep things simple, the MCON connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, allowing for unrestricted movement without cable clutter. Unlike controllers that require a direct USB-C or Lightning connection, MCON’s wireless setup works across all major mobile platforms.

Despite being Bluetooth-powered, battery life is not a concern—a 30-minute charge lasts for weeks, making it one of the most efficient controllers available.

Customization, Repairability, and Long-Term Value

Most controllers are built as sealed units, making repairs impossible. OhSnap designed the MCON with longevity in mind, using high-grade materials to ensure durability while allowing users to maintain and modify their controllers as needed. The entire device can be disassembled with a Torx screwdriver, enabling joystick replacements, button swaps, and even aesthetic upgrades.

Customization is just as important as repairability. The MCON supports interchangeable top plates, adjustable grips, and modular joystick options, allowing players to tailor it to their preferences. This design approach extends the controller’s lifespan while reducing electronic waste, aligning with the growing Right to Repair movement.

From Basement Prototype to Kickstarter Success

What started as a basement project by 19-year-old Josh King evolved into a breakthrough in mobile gaming. King developed the first prototype using a 3D printer in his parents’ basement, determined to create a controller that made sense for smartphones.

After partnering with OhSnap CEO Dale Backus, the MCON evolved into a refined, market-ready product. The response was overwhelming—within just eight days, its Kickstarter campaign raised over $1 million, proving that gamers are eager for a controller that blends function and form.

The Evolution of Mobile Gaming

The OhSnap MCON redefines mobile gaming with Hall Effect joysticks, silent tactile buttons, and an innovative sliding design. It delivers console-level precision in a form factor built for portability. Its MagSafe attachment, instant deployment, and repairable design ensure seamless integration into any gaming setup.

Jump into an online match or explore an open world—MCON keeps your smartphone ready to play. OhSnap best sums it up: “Play Now.”

Click Here to Buy Now: $119 $149 (20% off). Hurry, only 4/2855 left! Raised over $1.5 million. Less than 72-hours to go.

The post OhSnap MCON: The Compact Controller That Reinvents Mobile Gaming first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mobile gaming has evolved over the years primarily because of the processing power at hand on these devices. This has led to brands coming out with dedicated gaming controllers for both iOS and Android-powered phones. Razer Kishi series, GameSir, Backbone One and 8BitDo all offer good options for mobile gaming without breaking the bank.

8BitDo in particular has portable and compact gamepads for gaming on the go. In fact, they are so compact they can fit easily in the pocket of your pants. Yes, I’m talking about the Micro and Zero 2 gaming controllers that are tailored for 2D games on your Android device. Now the brand has released another accessory compatible with Micro and Zero 2 tailored for gaming with emulators or gaming titles that have on-screen controls at the bottom of the screen.

Designer: 8BitDo

The Mobile Clip clamps onto your mobile device, so that you can use it in a more ergonomic playing positioning. This is a unique idea for a mobile gaming accessory and should do good with gaming emulators that mostly have the controls set up at the bottom of the screen with the remainder of the screen real estate reserved for the in-game action. It should be great for playing retro 2D games as the Micro/Zero 2 controller sits pretty snugly on the display of any Android or iOS phone.

Priced at $10, this clip-on accessory is a no-brainer if you own any of the two compact gamepads. It comes as a three-part bundle with a clip-on clamp that attaches to your device, and the other two are shells for the respective controllers. You just have to hook together the combination and attach it to your phone. Even if you are planning to buy any one of these two compact gaming controllers, it would be a wise choice to bundle it up with this mobile clip to open up the possibilities for a set collection of gaming titles on your phone.

The post 8BitDo Mobile Clip for compact gamepads hooks to your phone for retro gaming like never before first appeared on Yanko Design.

Folks over at 8BitDo are on a role this year with the release of high-quality gaming controllers (most often officially licensed) that cater to the needs of every kind of gamer. Just when you thought what more could come from the house of this innovative tech company, they have the perfect gift this holiday season for kids and people with small hands.

The peppy gamepad is basically a compact and lighter version of the Ultimate 2C controller. The officially licensed Xbox controller is 20 percent smaller and 10 percent lighter than its predecessor, thus making it a good option for gamers who think the Xbox Series X|S controllers are a bit of a handful. Weighing just 189.6 grams the controller is well-suited for long playing sessions which can fatigue your wrists and hands.

Designer: 8BitDo

The layout on the controller is similar to the regular ones by Xbox – the only difference being the more crammed positioning (or compact alignment if you have small hands) of buttons. The buttons, joysticks, and triggers are full-sized, so that you don’t miss any input during crucial gameplay action. Although the main target audience of this gaming peripheral is teens and younger gamers, it’ll be the most cozy option for female gamers who tend to have smaller hands and males with average-sized hands.

The action buttons, directional pad, and the magnetic Hall effect joysticks are positioned very close together. This while keeping in mind ergonomics and a clear distinction in gaming inputs when multiple buttons or joysticks are pushed. 8BitDo has also included Hall effect triggers on the rear, and slightly smaller shoulder buttons. The visually striking gamepad comes wrapped in a translucent shell with white, green and pink hues along with the matching button and joystick color theme. Whenever a button is pushed or the joystick rolled, the cool LED lights react with flashes or follow the direction of the movement. This they call the Fire Ring and it looks amazing.

Ultimate Mini is going to be available in wired option only, so that there is no extra battery weight just like in other wireless controllers. It is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, and Windows 10 or higher PCs. The compact gamepad can be ordered right away in the US for $35 from the official 8BitDo online store or Amazon.

The post Ultra compact and lightweight 8BitDo Ultimate Mini controller is perfect for gamers with small hands first appeared on Yanko Design.

Don’t dismiss the Vision Pro just yet. Sure, rumors have been swirling that the company has pretty much halted all production of their flagship spatial computing device, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has some interesting updates. His scoop? Apple and Sony, are reportedly in talks to integrate PlayStation VR2’s Sense controllers with Apple’s Vision Pro headset. This partnership, if realized, could reshape how we think about virtual and mixed reality experiences, seamlessly blending gaming prowess with Apple’s signature design ethos.

The Vision Pro, Apple’s first foray into spatial computing, debuted as a device with lofty ambitions. Relying on gaze-and-pinch interactions paired with hand-tracking, its interface felt futuristic yet restrained when stacked against the tactile immersion offered by physical controllers. While its approach works wonders for casual gaming and productivity tasks, the absence of tactile input left a gaping hole in its potential for more dynamic, fast-paced VR gaming. Enter Sony, whose PS VR2 Sense controllers are heralded for their precise tracking, haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers. It’s easy to see why Apple would tap into Sony’s expertise to elevate Vision Pro’s gaming and interactive experiences.

Gurman, a well-known source of tech scoops, shared that Apple initiated discussions with Sony earlier this year, targeting the seamless integration of the Sense controllers into the Vision Pro ecosystem. The collaboration promises to extend beyond just gaming, allowing users to navigate visionOS interfaces using Sony’s controllers. For Vision Pro, this move is not just a band-aid solution but a strategic decision aimed at capturing a more serious gaming demographic. The absence of robust gaming support has been a sticking point for Vision Pro since its announcement. Adding PS VR2 Sense controllers could be the olive branch Apple extends to hardcore gamers who’ve so far been unimpressed by its current offerings.

What’s particularly intriguing is the potential ripple effect this partnership could have on the gaming industry. Sony has been fiercely protective of its PS VR2 ecosystem, even to the extent of not selling its Sense controllers separately. Yet, this exclusivity might soften if Sony and Apple push ahead with making these controllers available through Apple’s sales channels. Imagine walking into an Apple Store, purchasing a PS VR2 Sense controller, and unlocking new gaming experiences on a Vision Pro. It’s a scenario that positions both companies as collaborators rather than competitors—an unusual but potentially brilliant strategy.

But could this partnership lead to something even bigger? Some speculate it might pave the way for a broader gaming alliance between Apple and Sony. Such a move would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the gaming industry, especially with Microsoft’s Xbox looming large as the primary rival. While Apple could technically develop its own controllers tailored to the Vision Pro, partnering with Sony allows them to sidestep years of R&D and leverage Sony’s established credibility among gamers.

Beyond gaming, this partnership could also enhance Vision Pro’s value proposition for non-gaming applications. The tactile advantages of Sony’s controllers could transform how professionals interact with 3D models, designers manipulate virtual canvases, or filmmakers storyboard immersive scenes. By broadening its use cases, Apple has a shot at making Vision Pro more than a niche device for early adopters or AR enthusiasts.

Yet, as with any ambitious endeavor, there are potential roadblocks. Gurman notes that the announcement, initially planned for weeks ago, was delayed—possibly signaling internal hiccups or last-minute refinements. Whether it’s technical integration challenges, supply chain constraints, or plain old corporate hesitance, there’s always a chance this partnership could stall or be scrapped altogether.

However, the timing of this rumor feels strategic. Vision Pro’s early reviews have highlighted its groundbreaking potential while pointing out areas where it falls short. Apple knows that it must demonstrate more than technological novelty to justify the $3,500 price tag. Teaming up with Sony to bring richer gaming and interactive experiences could be the shot in the arm Vision Pro needs as it prepares for its full release next year.

For now, Apple and Sony remain tight-lipped, but the possibility of this partnership is tantalizing. It paints a picture of a future where Apple’s minimalistic design philosophy meets Sony’s immersive gaming technology, creating an ecosystem that’s not only expansive but compelling. If nothing else, it underscores Apple’s willingness to think beyond its walled garden—a refreshing shift for a company known for keeping things close to its chest.

So, will this be the start of a beautiful friendship between Apple and Sony, or just another chapter in the rumor mill? Only time will tell. But for now, the idea of navigating visionOS with a PS VR2 Sense controller is enough to keep tech enthusiasts and gamers alike dreaming of the possibilities. And if this collaboration does take off, maybe it’s time to rethink that Xbox subscription—just saying.

The post Apple and Sony are apparently working on PlayStation VR2 Gaming Controllers for the Vision Pro first appeared on Yanko Design.

Want to reexperience the Nintendo 64 as it was meant to be without any compromises in gaming experience? One is the graphics that are hard to emulate on modern screens in 4K via HDMI. Then Analogue 3D has got you covered if you’ve got the game console cartridges and controllers stashed in your library. It’ll come with an in-built bespoke 4K-upscaler and original display modes for a lag-free method to enjoy your classic titles how you want.

Analogue who previously created versions of the Game Boy, NES and Sega Genesis, has finally revealed that the long-awaited clone console will arrive in Q1 2025, and you can preorder it from 21 October (11 AM ET onwards) for $250. This console powered by 3DOS (the evolution of AnalogueOS) comes with features including support for saved states and capturing screenshots.

Designer: Analogue

The original Nintendo console’s vibe is intact with power and reset buttons. In case you’ve got no controller to go with the 3D console or want a modern compatible controller to play, they’ve got you covered there as well. They’ve collaborated with 8BitDo to redesign a N64 controller that’s got all the buttons to make you go crazy. As I mentioned, it’ll work fine with old cartridges and has an expansion pack built-in. It will be safe to say, the console can save your game progress and might even have the trickery to import your old saved progress back from the late 90s.

The 8BitDo N64 controllers will cost $40 a piece and the complete package will cost $290. These modern controllers will have a Hall effect stick and will be compatible with Switch, PC and Android as it has support for D-input and S-input modes. Since we are talking Analogue here, you will only get the console in two colors – black or white – and controllers from their website or via third-party resellers. Given the N64 can be a big hassle with emulators, the Analogue 3D is a big win since you’ll play right from the source. Therefore, you can expect a glitch-free experience playing titles like Super Mario, FIFA 99, or The Legend of Zelda.

The post Analogue 3D console lets you enjoy classic Nintendo 64 games in 4K first appeared on Yanko Design.

The very first Stream Decks were, as the name implied, made for streamers, content creators who thrived on live Internet video platforms like Twitch and YouTube. Over time, the device spread to more creative professionals who use the programmable buttons to make their workflows less cumbersome. That said, these tools benefited people working in mostly digital environments, such as those using computers. Realizing that even traditional broadcasting workflows could use an upgrade, a new kind of Stream Deck was made, one that had a ridiculous number of LCD buttons to customize, not to mention a stackable design to double or triple that number if it weren’t enough.

Designer: Elgato

The idea behind the Stream Deck and its kind is pretty simple. Rather than a sequence of keystrokes that are hard to remember across different apps and services, it offered buttons that could be mapped to almost any function. Even better, those buttons are actually LCD keys, so they can have dynamic icons that identify their purpose and change depending on the app in use.

That kind of flexibility is critical in a smooth and fast digital workflow, whether it’s changing settings on a live stream, stitching up videos, or changing digital brushes. Traditional broadcasting also has use for so many controls, but those buttons and dials are often fixed and permanent. The Stream Deck Studio brings the flexibility of Elgato’s mainstream devices to this professional setting where speed is of the essence.

Unlike the boxy Stream Decks, the Studio is a long 19-inch bar with two rows of 16 keys flanked by a dial on each end. This is the largest Stream Deck product to date and is obviously not meant for regular desktop use. The shape of the device, however, fits perfectly with broadcast studio racks. In fact, you can also stack and connect two or three of them, for a whopping 96 buttons and six dials.

Like any other Stream Deck product, the keys and dials are programmable, but there’s a slight catch this time. The Studio was developed together with Bitfocus, whose Companion software is already a popular alternative to Stream Deck’s own app, with tweaks for broadcast media. The new Buttons software was made specifically for the Stream Deck studio, though it requires a recurring subscription. Then again, the $900 price tag makes the Stream Deck Studio a no-go for individual creators anyway, but offers studios and other companies the same kind of flexibility and power that the Stream Deck offers, except on a larger scale.

The post Stream Deck Studio goes overboard with 32 customizable LCD keys for broadcasters first appeared on Yanko Design.

Microsoft has always believed in giving gamers more options when we talk of accessories. This is true for the gaming controllers under the Xbox line, and we’ve seen plenty in the past. These include the Dune: Part Two, Deadpool Edition and the Remix Special Edition controller. Other unofficial options like the Assassin’s Creed Valhalla-themed controller and Do3D’s limited edition gamepads.

A more recent themed controller from Microsoft’s dedicated portal for experimentation, the Xbox Design Lab, really caught our attention for its translucent cool blue theme. Yes, I’m talking about the Xbox Wireless Controller – Sky Cipher Special Edition. On the same lines, Microsoft has not revealed the Ghost Cipher Special Edition Xbox Wireless Controller.

Designer: Microsoft

The gamepad has a transparent outer shell to expose all the innards in their bare form and working dynamics. The craze for transparent and semi-transparent gadgets is slowly taking over the tech community and I love it to the core. The Ghost Cipher Special Edition gamepad contrasts the see-through aesthetics with, a silver interior, grey joystick, and bronze accents on the triggers and D-pad for a very futuristic appeal. The buttons and the Xbox logo in white add a sophisticated charm to the mix.

This clear design will lure millennials who’ve seen the era of translucent iMacs, as well as Gen-Z who are accustomed to Nothing’s transparent design language. Coming at $70, the special edition controller is up for pre-order with a release slated for October 8. Expanding the Cipher Series are two new chromatic D-pad and paddle metallic designs called Energy Chroma and Sunset Chroma which create a hypnotic gradient that shifts colors based on the angle of viewing.

That’s not it as Xbox Design Lab has crafted shells for Elite Series 2 as well. Carrying translucent aesthetics these faceplates – Ghost Cipher colorless, Velocity Cipher green, Candy Cipher pink, Pulse Cipher red, Astral Cipher purple and Surf Cipher teal contrast with black handles to pep up your controller’s look. You can mix and match the color of the buttons and triggers for complete freedom of customization.

According to the Design Lab, these controller mod kits draw inspiration from the “90s and early 2000s, the Cipher Series brings six stunning transparent top case designs. These vibrant, candy-colored top cases encapsulate the controller’s metallic frame, showcasing both its external beauty and the advanced engineering within the Elite Series 2 controller. These customizations for the Elite 2 controller start at $150 and give you complete freedom to facelift your controller.

The post Xbox introduces appealing transparent controller and stunning customization options for Elite Series 2 first appeared on Yanko Design.

As consumers become more discerning and sophisticated, the tools needed to create content have also become more powerful and complex. Yes, there is now generative AI to help kickstart the creative process, but the final work is still done by human hands. The common keyboard and mouse are no longer enough for these tasks, and having your fingers dance over keyboard shortcuts is sure to result in strain and injury over time. Following the current trend of using Stream Deck-like devices for more than just streaming, Logitech has just launched its own tool that gives creative professionals an extra set of keys to help them spend less time fiddling with controls and more time actually creating.

Designer: Logitech

The Logitech MX Creative Console is a duo of connected devices. One is a dial pad with an honest-to-goodness physical aluminum dial that gives users more precise control over scrubbing through timelines, changing brush sizes, or any other setting that needs fine movements. There’s also a small roller for scrolling through other things, as well as two pairs of buttons for selecting things or moving forward and backward.

The other half of the duo is a keypad with 9 Display Keys, each of which can be configured for a different action and a matching icon. This lets creators and designers assign their most used shortcuts to these iconified buttons, freeing their minds from having to memorize all those key sequences, creating a more natural flow that, thanks to their physical and direct interactivity. It still relies on a bit of muscle memory, but far less than combinations of keys that don’t make sense as far as mnemonics are concerned.

Logitech isn’t just aiming for designers with such an assistive tool but also appealing to their growing sense of responsibility to the environment. Parts of the MX Creative Console use post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic, 72% for the Graphite colorway and 55% for the Pale Grey version. The aluminum used for the dial is also made with a lower carbon footprint, using renewable energy rather than fossil fuels. Packaging still has some plastic, but the paper parts are made from sustainable and controlled sources.

Truth be told, Logitech is a bit late in the game, with many creators already using the popular live-streaming tool Stream Deck for the same purpose, though the addition of the physical dial is a big boost for professionals. At the same time, Cooler Master just recently launched the MasterHUB, a creative console with a modular design that really puts users in control. That said, the Logitech MX Creative Console does cost only $199, making it an accessible option for creators who need a boost to get into the zone.

The post Logitech MX Creative Console offers designers more controls to help them create more first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mobile gaming is here to stay and numerous brands are trying to cash in to this buzz with mobile gaming controllers that turn your powerful smartphone into a handheld gaming machine. Now premium gaming brand CRKD, known for Nitro Deck+ handheld and NEO S controller, wants to try its prowess as a mobile gaming controller.

They’ve released two innovative accessories dubbed NEO S Mobile Kit and Wall Display Kit for mobile gamers. Both these gaming accessories are developed in collaboration with Accessories maker Mechanism. As the name suggests, these are compatible with CRKD’s existing line-up of gaming controllers – most notably the NEO S.

Designer: CRKD

The NEO S Mobile Kit gives you the freedom to mount your iPhone 16 Pro, Galaxy S24 Ultra, or other gaming-capable devices to the NEO S controller. That’s perfect for playing AAA titles like Resident Evil, Fortnite, CODM, PUBG, Asphalt Legends or Real Racing. One thing that you need to consider though is the weight of the premium smartphones which can sometimes weigh down the whole setup. So, I presume CRKD has sorted that out to some extent. Hooking on the kit’s elements to the controller and your smartphone is pretty simple, all you have to do is attach the magnetic grip to the smartphone and mount the extension arm on the controller. The gaming accessory makes more sense for Apple users since it is MagSafe compatible.

Coming on to the Wall Display Kit, the idea is straight-forward, you can add a permanent mounting position on your wall to display your CRKD hardware when not gaming. The kit comes with Adhesive Wall Mount, NEO S Grip, universal grip (for other devices) and adhesive mounts. The NEO S Mobile Kit comes for $30, and the Wall Display Kit retails for $35 which I think is a little overpriced. That said, if the NEO S Mobile Kit aligns with your mobile gaming needs, only then it should be considered for buying. As for the Wall Display Kit, the buying decision completely depends on your budget.

According to Jack Guinchard, Global Brand Manager for CRKD, “would broaden the scope of use for CRKD products and bring new ways to use and display our range of gaming collectibles.” He further claimed that “Mechanism is a perfect fit for the CRKD community.”

The post NEO S Mobile Kit gets you ready for ergonomic smartphone gaming with CRKD’s controller first appeared on Yanko Design.

If you wish to again play games on your Nintendo console with the GameCube controller that has damaged wires and bad instances of drifting analog sticks, then this accessory arrives as a blessing in disguise. 8BitDo has introduced a mod kit that lets you upgrade your GameCube controller to a wireless gamepad, so that you’re not impulsively tempted into buying a new one.

This is not the first time 8BitDo has introduced a mod kit for the Nintendo controllers including the N64 and earlier ones, so this comes as no surprise. The trick here is that you’ll have to replace the existing PCB of the NGC controller with a drop-in board. The Chinese tech company is taking pre-orders for this useful gaming accessory that’ll make you go wireless if you hate the wire clutter on your Nintendo ecosystem. Called the NGC Mod Kit, this one is slated to ship on 25^th September.

Designer: 8BitDo

You’ll need to have basic soldering knowledge and loads of patience to make the changeover. Remember, controllers are not that easy to put together when opened up. Although not as tedious as putting together something like a DualSense. Of course, there are certified adapters on the market (including 8BitDo GBros and Nintendo’s official adapter) that allow you to use the wired GameCube controller with the Switch but this mod kit cuts out the extra and brings straightforward wireless Bluetooth connectivity.

Along with making your gamepad wireless, there are other add-ons as well. It has Hall effect joysticks for improved lifespan and immunity against sensitive vibrations if you love to play your FPS games hard. The accessory adds a 300mAh USB-C rechargeable battery with 6 hours of playtime for gaming without interruptions. It also adds a new set of triggers to the controller, so basically, you’ll have a virtually new gaming controller to play around with.

8BitDo Mod Kit priced at $26 is worth the spend if you have a Nintendo GameCube controller with chewed-down wires and defunct joystick controls. The only catch is, that you’ll have to slash out another $26 for the Tetro Receiver for GNC to connect to the GameCube. So, spending $52 on a wire-free setup for your existing NGC controller makes logical sense.

The post 8BitDo’s Mod Kit turns wired NGC controller into wireless one with Hall Effect joysticks first appeared on Yanko Design.

PC gaming has experienced a huge boost thanks to the advent of handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck, the ASUS ROG Ally, and the Lenovo Legion Go. But while these offer a more mobile gaming experience, they still pale in comparison to dedicated gaming laptops when it comes to performance, battery life, and heat management. Gaming laptops have been around for years, of course, but they, too, are experiencing a renaissance, whether they’re becoming slimmer and sleeker or, in this case, taking on a completely different design. Rather than completely overhauling the laptop or even doing away with it, the Acer Project DualPlay concept instead transforms this familiar design into something that adapts to the latest gaming trends, including playing the same game with a friend who’s right beside you.

Designer: Acer

The days when PC and console gaming camps were divided across keyboard or controller lines are long gone. Those on PS5 and Xbox now feel the need to grab a keyboard to communicate with friends, while some PC gamers now swear by gamepads, especially those playing on handheld PCs. The trends may have changed, but the design of gaming laptops has not caught up to this shift, which is why the Acer Project DualPlay concept changes the formula a wee bit by embracing both playing styles in the same device.

When you press a certain “release” button on top of the keyboard with two fingers, the laptop’s extra-large touchpad pops out and becomes a wireless controller, not unlike those you’d usually connect and bring with you in a separate case or pouch. This dual system lets gamers quickly switch between keyboard and controller without missing a beat and without having to worry about forgetting to bring the controller or having no space for it in the bag.

“DualPlay,” however, has dual meanings here. That detachable controller can actually be separated into two joysticks, not unlike the concept of the Nintendo Switch Joy-con, allowing two people to compete or cooperate in the same game without having to fight over the controls. It brings back the social feeling of playing with someone beside you that home consoles offered, except you’re no longer limited to doing that at home.

The Acer Project DualPlay gaming laptop concept has other surprising features that really take gaming to the next level. Releasing the controller also pops out two high-fidelity 5W speakers from the sides, delivering audio that’s not impeded by desks or other obstacles. There’s also an overabundance of dynamic RGB lighting not only around the keyboard but also around the screen, flanking the detachable controllers, the infinity mirror lighting bar on the back, and even the controller’s joysticks. It definitely looks like a gaming laptop from the future, though it remains to be seen if it is far too ahead of its time as well.

The post Acer Project DualPlay Laptop Concept puts a unique twist to gaming on the go first appeared on Yanko Design.

It seems that we’re seeing a rather curious design trend in the gaming market. Once filled with plastic-encrusted designs, there are a few coming out with more stylish cases, be it for the device itself or for its accessories. Analogue just recently launched its CNC aluminum limited edition Pocket, but 8BitDo was actually a few steps ahead of it. Although one’s eleventh anniversary isn’t actually associated with metal (it’s Turquoise, by the way), the famed maker of throwback controllers released metal versions of its widely popular SN30 Pro, giving fans of the brand a collectible they can actually use and, in case of an emergency, even throw like a deadly weapon.

Designer: 8BitDo

Game controllers are made to be light enough not to cause hand strain but still have enough weight to feel substantial and improve gameplay. Gamers have come to expect that bulkier controllers that follow the Xbox and PlayStation designs would be heavier than most, especially controllers that are patterned after the designs of yesteryears. Not so this variant of the SN30 Pro, itself designed after the super lightweight Super Nintendo gamepad, mostly because most of its body is made of metal.

The Gold and Silver editions of the SN30 Pro aren’t just cheap paint jobs, though you might be forgiven for making that presumption given the resemblance to powder-coated metallic paint. It’s true metal, or as 8BitDo calls it, metal zinc alloy, and it’s used not just for the main body but for almost every part visible to the eyes. That includes buttons, triggers, and, yes, even the joysticks. The gold edition gets a matte paint finish while the silver version undergoes electroplating. The cables aren’t metal, though, which is probably for the best.

More than just visual oddities, the SN30 Pro Gold/Silver Edition controllers also have one other advantage over their plasticky older siblings. They’re built to last, at least more than the common controller, as metal will not warp or deform over time. It’s also less likely to crack when accidentally dropped, though you might dent this here and there. And drop it you might indeed, given how heavy it is 381g. For comparison, the normal SN30 Pro weighs a mere 114g and even the Xbox Wireless Controller is just around 287g.

Not all that glitters is gold, as they say, and despite the luster and heft of these limited edition controllers, their feature set might leave gamers sorely disappointed. They’re definitely more like functional collectors’ editions rather than serious gaming weapons (unless you throw it like one), and the $99.99 price tag definitely cements, or rather forges, that image.

The post 8BitDo SN30 Pro Gold and Silver controllers are as heavy as they look first appeared on Yanko Design.