The new Retro Fighters N64 Controllers upgrade the classic form-factor, now up for pre-order

The Retro Fighters N64 Controllers are now available for pre-order. After its popular Kickstarter campaign over a year ago and taking care of an issue with the early backer run, the Brawler64 Next Gen game pads have successfully made it to Amazon.

Retro Fighters N64 Controllers:

Designed specifically for use with Nintendo 64, the new Retro Fighters game pads implement a series of upgrades over the classic controllers including a completely new form factor. For some, the seemingly three-handed N64 controllers were great, but Retro Fighters is looking to enhance the experience with a more traditional 2-prong shape most players will likely feel more at home with these days.

In fact, the entire design approach of the Retro Fighters N64 controllers seems to be going for a more ergonomic feel than the classic three-pronged N64 gamepads. Retro Fighters is using slightly larger “C” buttons, which is great for titles that don’t just use them for simple camera controls. Outside of the actual shape of the controller, the biggest change might be the “Z” buttons. A pair of them have been re-positioned below the shoulder triggers. As Retro Fighters puts it, this allows gamers to use either hand to access “Z” button controls.

Turbo, New Analog Stick and More:

Beyond that you’ll find upgraded face buttons and a D-Pad as well as an analog stick that almost certainly has to be better than the original version. I guess for some it worked, but personally I remember that thing being way too long (and slippery) to be ideal. Most early hands-on reports suggest Retro Fighters has done a good job on that front. Oh, and the Retro Fighters N64 controllers all have one of those turbo button toggles just about every retro remake has these days.

Pre-order Now:

The Retro Fighters Brawler64 Next Gen N64 Controller comes in classic grey as well five different transparent colorways (green, blue, orange, red, and purple). The classic great color is up for pre-order at Amazon and direct from Retro Fighters starting from $29.99. Amazon will begin shipping them in April apparently but the RF site is saying “orders are shipping in the order they were received.” However, the transparent options are all listed at $36.19 shipped on Amazon with a January 29th release date. While it’s hard to say how long of a wait the classic grey will be direct, it does look like you can secure a transparent option before the end of the month at Amazon.

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