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Knowing which games to play is only half the battle— how to play them is of equal importance. Read on for our recommendations of the best gear to buy the beloved Nintendo fan in your life!
The Hardware
Nintendo Switch Lite
From our review:
“It’s not a perfect setup, but then, even the original Switch can’t lay claim to that, either. Switch Lite is a wonderful addition to Nintendo’s console family, regardless of its shortcomings. It feels good, looks good, and is far more portable than a classic Switch.”
Nintendo Switch Model HAC-001 (-01)
This is the latest model of the baseline Switch, which is notable for its increased battery life. Undocked, this iteration of Switch can last between 4.5 and 9 hours of play time. That’s a pretty decent difference between it and the original model, which can last 2.5 to 6.5 hours while undocked. The model number is listed on every Switch box, so just make sure to give it a look before making a purchase if you want this newer version.
The Gear
tomtoc Slim Case Generation 2 and Travel Case
From our review:
“The Slim Case Generation 2 works much better for the sort of travel that I do, but the Travel Case is also a nice storage option for around the house, or for those that like to bring their extras on the road. Regardless, you really can’t go wrong picking up either of these great options from tomtoc.”
From our review:
“Other than some fairly minor inconveniences, however, Bionik’s TV Lynx is a really great peripheral. You won’t be able to ditch Nintendo’s officially licensed product in favor of it, but it’s actually a terrific alternative to purchasing a second Dock. For $59.99, it’s a cheaper option that’s easier to take on-the-go and works as advertised.”
The Controllers
8BitDo SN30+ Controller
This beauty of a controller is excellent for Nintendo Switch, both for the console’s modern software as well as the classics in the NES and SNES Nintendo Switch Online catalogues. 8BitDo has worked hard to make this the ultimate gaming pad and the quality shows. Responsive buttons, a premium build, and precision analogue sticks all help the SN30+ stand out from the crowd.
8BitDo SN30 GP
This controller is close to perfect for playing the SNES Nintendo Switch Online games (as well as the NES selection) because it is almost identical to a genuine SNES pad from back in the day. The only thing that holds this particular controller back is its lack of ZL and ZR buttons— their absence means that players must back out to the home page of their Switch, close the app, and then relaunch it in order to select a new game. Still, it clocks in cheaper than the SN30+ and works with a variety of different platforms beyond Switch, so keep it in mind.
Retro-Bit Sega Genesis 2.4 GHz Wireless Controller
These delightful controllers bring more buttons for players who want a better experience with their Sega Genesis Mini console, or even playing retro goodies on Nintendo Switch itself. There’s also the option of buying the wired version of this controller, which is just as precise and fun to use. It comes in black and blue, and there’s even a special pink edition that was launched in support of breast cancer awareness.
The original Core Controller from Nyko is delightful, but this smaller version is a great alternative to it for a couple of reasons. For one thing, its smaller size is perfect for gaming on the go. It fits with ease in a lot of different travel bags made for Switch. For another thing, it’s also great for younger players or those with smaller hands. This is a great option for those in the market for a Pro Controller but don’t want to or can’t afford to spend $70 on one.
That’s it for the gear and hardware from this past year that’s worth buying! If you have anything to add to the list, please share with us in the comments and on social media!
Nintendo’s lack of SNES controller stock has made me consider buying one of the 8BitDo controllers pretty strongly. Hopefully the restock in January is sizable, because I’ve been waiting to play Yoshi’s Island until I have the real deal in my hands.