8BitDo’s at it again with another brand new console. This time around, it has partnered with Japanese publisher SNK in order to recreate the popular Neo Geo CD console.
Launching on August 15, the 8BitDo NEOGEO CD Wireless Controller will retail for $34.99 (about £29.99 / AU$52.99). Four limited edition styles will also be available, all featuring characters and icons from king of fighters 97, A game that would certainly have made our list of best fighting games had we written it in the 90s.
The wireless controller supports Bluetooth and 2.4g connectivity, like the excellent 8BitDo Ultimate and 8BitDo Arcade Stick, two of the best Nintendo Switch controllers on the market. It can also be connected to a USB-C cable if you prefer.
Bluetooth connectivity should mean the controller is compatible with Nintendo Switch, but the pad officially supports PC, Android, and, amazingly, the Neo Geo Mini console; A modern mini arcade machine that hosts 40 classic Neo Geo titles.
Best of all, 8BitDo says it has faithfully recreated the push-up feel of the original Neo Geo CD pad’s analog stick. This would make it an excellent choice for arcade and fighting games. 8BitDo controllers typically feature Hall effect technology on their arms, which ensures long life and prevents drift. The 8BitDo NEOGEO CD Wireless Controller seems to have that or something similar going on as well.
Other new features include the addition of shoulder buttons, turbo functionality, and custom button layouts that will likely be handled via the 8BitDo mobile app. All in all, the 8BitDo NEOGEO CD Wireless Controller seems to be a faithful yet sophisticated console that will work great with arcade classics on PC and mobile.
In other hardware news, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa It has hinted at Nintendo Switch 2 backwards compatibility During the last Q&A session for shareholders.
