HORI is Launching Wireless Zelda-Themed GameCube-Style Controller for Switch
Posted on March 30 2021 by Charles Xavier
A few years ago, gaming accessory manufacturer HORI released a series of GameCube-style controllers for the Nintendo Switch. Dubbed “Battle Pad Controllers”, they had multiple visual designs themed after Super Mario Bros., Pokémon, and of course The Legend of Zelda. However, one of the few downsides to these controllers was that they were wired. The dark ages are over, however, as earlier today, news broke that pre-orders are now available in the west for wireless versions of these controllers!
At the moment, only the original Mario, Pokémon, and Zelda-themed Battle Pads have been converted for wireless functionality. Visually, they look exactly the same as their wired counterparts, barring the placement of the buttons at the center and the addition of the HORI logo. Furthermore, they don’t offer any extra features besides the aforementioned wireless functionality. They still have the standard anti-snap back control sticks, gripped handles, swappable L/R and ZL/ZR toggle controls, and a turbo feature. According to the listing, the range for a sustained Bluetooth connection is within 32 feet, and the ion battery inside can push roughly 15 or more hours before needing to be recharged. Sadly there is still no amiibo support, or a rumble feature.
The controllers cost $49.99 USD. Pre-orders are currently only available through Amazon, with the controllers expected to ship out in May.
I’ve always been a big fan of the GameCube controller. It was the first controller that I really loved for its ergonomics, and I’d say, even to this day, it still feels great to hold. I’ve never used one of the HORI Battle Pad controllers; I imagine it probably feels nice to hold, but the shoulder buttons are a bit too flat to my liking. Considering HORI retained the original C-stick, they may as well keep the large L/R shoulders too. I also don’t know if the appeal of using these controllers wirelessly justifies spending an additional $25 USD when there is nothing else separating it from the wired version.
Will you be placing a pre-order on these controllers? Are there any other visual designs from the available wired controllers that you are hoping receive a wireless version? Let us know in the comments below!
Source: HORI (via Nintendo Life)
Charles is a Senior Editor at Zelda Dungeon. He is a Visual Development artist focused on enviroments and pitch paintings. Check out his Instagram and Twitter to see his latest artworks, a lot of which is Zelda fan art! His favorite candy is Skittles – he feels the world should know this.
