8BitDo has officially unveiled its first dedicated mobile controller, rivaling the likes of the Backbone One and Razer Kishi V2. The cradle design, combined with the signature features of 8BitDo's Ultimate controllers for PC and Nintendo Switch, makes the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Controller a standout option, especially given its affordable price of just $50. Available for preorder now on Amazon, the controller will be offered in white and black variants, with availability starting November 29.
Similar to its high-end counterparts, the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller boasts triggers and joysticks equipped with Hall Effect sensors, which not only prevent stick drift but also provide a smoother gaming experience. It features two customizable rear triggers, a dedicated turbo button, and is designed to accommodate phones ranging from 3.93 inches (100mm) to 6.69 inches (170mm) in length, covering the majority of modern smartphones. For context, Apple's largest phone, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, measures 6.42 inches in length. The controller's ergonomic design adds a traditional gaming feel to your phone, ensuring a comfortable grip.
Additionally, the controller supports 8BitDo's Ultimate Software, a user-friendly customization suite that allows you to remap inputs, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, and more. However, there's a significant limitation: it's currently confirmed to support Android only. While other 8BitDo controllers with Android-only mobile support have worked on iOS, GameSpot has reached out to 8BitDo to confirm if official iOS support is in the works and whether it will be compatible with iPhones at launch.
Since the controller connects via Bluetooth, unlike the Backbone One which uses USB-C, it's likely that it will support iOS. 8BitDo's other controllers already work with Apple devices via Bluetooth, and its Ultimate Software app is available on the iOS Store. The key feature that might be missing on iOS is the Ultimate Software app's functionality. If 8BitDo doesn't add the controller to the list of devices that sync with the app on iOS, iPhone users won't be able to remap inputs or make other adjustments—unless they have an Android device or can sync the controller with the PC app to make changes. Remapped inputs and adjustments are usually saved to the controller, so if you own an Android tablet or an old Android phone with 9.0 firmware or higher, you could theoretically make those changes on that device before using it on your iPhone.
We'll update this article if and when we receive clarification from 8BitDo about iPhone compatibility. Given Apple's recent push into AAA gaming on iOS with titles like the Resident Evil 4 remake, Resident Evil 7, Death Stranding, Assassin's Creed Mirage, and more, the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller and its extensive customization options would be a significant asset for iPhone users.
Nonetheless, Android users have a new and exciting controller option to anticipate. 8BitDo's controllers are known for offering exceptional value for their price, so the 8BitDo Mobile Gaming Controller should definitely be on your radar. The 8BitDo Ultimate Wireless 2.4GHz Wireless is our top pick for the best PC controller in 2024, and the 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth Wireless Controller is our favorite third-party controller for Nintendo Switch.
At $50, 8BitDo's mobile controller is half the price of the Backbone One, the leading cradle-style mobile controller. The Backbone One costs $100 and lacks rear triggers and Hall Effect sticks/triggers. However, it offers dedicated support for iPhone and Android via USB-C (or Lightning), including a handy app that organizes your games in a console-style launcher. The USB-C connection also reduces latency concerns, whereas Bluetooth can introduce a bit of latency. 8BitDo's Bluetooth controllers generally perform well via Bluetooth, but this is worth noting.
In related news, the 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller is also available for preorder now for $40 on Amazon. Revealed alongside the Analogue 3D, a modernized take on the Nintendo 64, this controller is also compatible with Nintendo Switch, PC, and Android smartphones.
Source link: https://www.gamespot.com
