Category: Gaming

  • Ayaneo Next 2: Global Launch with 128GB RAM & 1,155-Nit OLED

    Ayaneo Next 2: Global Launch with 128GB RAM & 1,155-Nit OLED

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo has launched the Next 2 gaming handheld after three years of anticipation, now available for backing on Indiegogo.
    2. The Next 2 features two AMD Strix Halo APUs: Ryzen AI Max 385 and Ryzen AI Max+ 395, with a 9.06-inch OLED screen and a 116 Wh external battery.
    3. Pricing starts at $1,799 for the Ryzen AI Max 385 model with 32 GB RAM and 1 TB storage, while the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 models begin at $2,299.
    4. A high-end model offers 128 GB RAM and 2 TB storage for $3,499, with all models expected to ship in June 2026.
    5. The Next 2 aims to meet diverse gaming needs with impressive specifications and multiple configuration options.


    Ayaneo has at long last launched its Next 2 gaming handheld after a lengthy period of anticipation. To give some background, the company first hinted at the Next 2 more than three years ago in mid-2022, featuring AMD Radeon RX 6000 and Intel Arc dGPU options. Now, in early 2026, the Next 2 is available for backing on Indiegogo, offering a selection between two AMD Strix Halo APUs.

    Specifications and Pricing

    Ayaneo presents the Next 2 with options for either the Ryzen AI Max 385 or Ryzen AI Max+ 395, similar to the previous OneXPlayer Apex and GPD Win 5 (curr. $2,399.99 on Amazon). What sets the Next 2 apart is its 9.06-inch OLED screen and a 116 Wh external battery. Overall, the dimensions for the Next 2 are 341.69 x 146.24 x 26.15 mm, and it has a total weight of around 1.43 kg. For a complete list of technical specifications, please refer to the specification sheet below.

    Different Configurations

    The Next 2 begins at a price of $1,799 on Indiegogo, featuring the Ryzen AI Max 385 with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. On the other hand, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 versions start at a minimum of $2,299, owing to their 64 GB RAM configuration. For those looking for more power, Ayaneo also offers a model with 128 GB RAM and 2 TB of storage for $3,499. All three models are expected to ship in June 2026.

    Conclusion

    Indiegogo’s platform now showcases the Next 2, making it possible for gaming enthusiasts to back this innovative device. With impressive specs and a variety of options, Ayaneo aims to cater to different gaming needs and preferences.

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  • PS Plus February 2026 Game List Leaked: Three New Extra, Premium Titles

    PS Plus February 2026 Game List Leaked: Three New Extra, Premium Titles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony will soon announce the official PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue for February 2026.
    2. A reliable leaker, Billbil-kun, revealed three games expected in the lineup.
    3. The first game is Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, featuring Peter Parker and Miles Morales in New York City.
    4. The second game is Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, focusing on open-world driving with over 120 cars.
    5. The third game is Neva, an emotional action-adventure about a girl and a wolf cub in a crumbling world.


    Sony is set to unveil the official PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue for February 2026 soon. Yet, it seems that a part of the lineup has leaked before the official announcement, providing players a sneak peek at what they might expect.

    Leak Details

    This information comes from Billbil-kun, who has a good track record of accurately leaking PlayStation Plus lineups. His latest update confirms that three games will be included in the February 2026 Game Catalogue.

    Game Highlights

    The first and most notable title is Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (for PS5). This game was launched for the PS5 in October 2023 and was later made available on Windows in January last year. Players can take control of both Peter Parker and Miles Morales, who team up to defend New York City. Switching between characters is quick and easy. The narrative features prominent villains, such as Venom, Kraven the Hunter, and the Lizard.

    The second title that has leaked is Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown (for PS5). This game revives the Test Drive Unlimited franchise, emphasizing open-world driving and online gameplay. Players can navigate through expansive, realistic recreations of Hong Kong Island and Ibiza, driving through urban areas, mountains, and scenic coastal routes, while participating in races and various activities. The game includes over 120 cars from more than 30 different manufacturers, along with options for customization, dealerships, and social areas for player interaction.

    Emotional Journey

    The third game revealed in the leak is Neva (for both PS5 and PS4). Developed by the team that created GRIS, Neva is an action-adventure game that centers on the journey of a young girl named Alba and a wolf cub as they navigate through a crumbling world. The emphasis is on their bond, collaboration, and emotional storytelling, rather than on high-paced action.

    At this point, Billbil-kun has not confirmed what other games will be part of February 2026’s PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue. However, Sony is likely to announce the complete lineup either tomorrow or during the upcoming State of Play event, which is set for February 12.

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  • Get Crimson Desert Free with AMD CPUs, GPUs, and Laptops

    Get Crimson Desert Free with AMD CPUs, GPUs, and Laptops

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Crimson Desert will launch on March 19, 2024, after confirming its release date following earlier uncertainty.

    2. AMD Promotion: The game will be bundled with select AMD hardware, allowing buyers of eligible products to receive a free copy of Crimson Desert.

    3. Eligible Hardware: Eligible AMD products include certain CPUs like the Ryzen 9 9800X3D and GPUs like the Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT.

    4. Promotion Duration: The promotion runs from February 10 to April 25, 2024, or until all coupon codes are claimed.

    5. Redemption Details: Coupon codes can be redeemed until May 23, 2024, exclusively on Steam, requiring a product verification tool for installation confirmation.


    AMD has teamed up with Pearl Abyss for their new open-world action RPG, Crimson Desert, which is set to debut on March 19. This title will be bundled with select AMD hardware, so if you’re considering a switch or an upgrade, you might receive a complimentary copy of this eagerly awaited game. The promotion is currently active and will run for a little over two months.

    Game Development Journey

    Crimson Desert was first unveiled in 2019, but the game has encountered several challenges during its development. In August of last year, there were indications that the game, which was originally slated for release in November 2025, had been pushed back to Q1 2026. However, the developers later clarified that there was no confirmed release date, nor any delays at that time. Eventually, in September, Pearl Abyss verified that the release date would indeed be March 19, and it appears they are committed to that date. Pre-orders for the game are now open, priced at $70.

    Eligible Hardware for Promotion

    If you’re thinking of purchasing a new AMD desktop CPU, GPU, or a laptop with an AMD CPU, you might qualify for a free copy of the game. Some of the most popular processors, including the Ryzen 9 9800X3D and the high-end Ryzen 9 9950X3D, are part of the eligible CPUs. The Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT graphics cards are also included. Be sure to check the complete list for details.

    The promotion began on February 10 and will last until April 25, or until all coupon codes are claimed. The coupon code can be redeemed until May 23 by going to AMD’s rewards site and registering. A product verification tool must be downloaded to confirm that the eligible product is installed in the same system. It’s important to note that while Crimson Desert will be available on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, this promotion appears to be exclusive to Steam, meaning the coupon can only be used on that platform.

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  • August GTA 6 Trailer Expected, Marketing to Start 3 Months Early

    August GTA 6 Trailer Expected, Marketing to Start 3 Months Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. Take-Two Interactive confirmed that the release date for GTA 6 remains unchanged at November 19th.
    2. Marketing efforts for GTA 6 will begin in the summer, with major updates expected in August.
    3. The anticipated third trailer for GTA 6 is unlikely to be released in June, according to insider Tom Henderson.
    4. There is speculation that the next trailer may drop around the earnings call for the 2027 fiscal year, potentially boosting interest.
    5. Despite concerns about the marketing timeline, GTA 6 is projected to sell over 40 million copies in its first year.


    The recent earnings report from Take-Two Interactive has confirmed that there will be no change to the release date of GTA 6. CEO Strauss Zelnick announced that marketing efforts will kick off in the summer, just ahead of the game’s scheduled launch on November 19th. However, those eager for a third trailer to drop in June might be let down. Tom Henderson from Insider Gaming suggests that major updates are more likely to come in August.

    Podcast Insights

    During a recent podcast, Henderson shared his views on the marketing strategy for both Take-Two and Rockstar Games. He mentioned, “I don’t think we’re going to see anything on GTA 6 until the first week of August.” This timing would align with the publisher’s first earnings call for the 2027 fiscal year.

    Anticipated Trailer Release

    The Editor-in-Chief believes that Rockstar might surprise fans by releasing the next GTA 6 trailer either the day before or on the same day as the earnings call. The last trailer was released in May 2025, just ahead of a briefing for investors. Given that shareholders tend to look forward, this update could lead to a significant spike in interest.

    Some gamers were hoping that the Summer Game Fest on June 5th would showcase this crime-themed game. Sadly, Henderson thinks the title won’t take the spotlight at any external events. Instead, it seems that the publisher and developer will likely focus on their own high-budget promotional campaigns.

    Marketing Concerns

    With August just three months away from the GTA 6 release, fans might be concerned that the marketing efforts are starting a bit late. Zelnick’s earlier comments on marketing strategies provide little clarity. After the last delay in November 2025, he stated, “We have to start marketing activities in a significant amount of time ahead of release.” However, he has since shortened the timeframe to being “pretty close to release.”

    No matter when fans get to see more of Leonida, the game is expected to break sales records. Some estimates predict that over 40 million copies could be sold within its first year. As mentioned in the Insider Gaming podcast, the excitement is sky-high, with many PS5 and Xbox gamers already planning to buy the game.

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  • GameSir Unveils Special Edition Controller for New AAA Game

    GameSir Unveils Special Edition Controller for New AAA Game

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameSir is releasing a new special edition of the G7 Pro controller inspired by the game Nioh 3.
    2. The upcoming controller will be called the GameSir G7 Pro 8K PC Nioh 3 Edition and is developed in partnership with Koei Tecmo Games.
    3. It features an 8,000Hz polling rate and second-generation Mag-Res TMR sticks, indicating high performance for PC gaming.
    4. The design includes a dragon motif, red thumbstick caps, a golden D-Pad, and ABXY buttons styled after the game’s font.
    5. Pricing and availability details for the new controller are expected to be announced soon.


    GameSir has more plans to release unique versions of its GameSir G7 Pro controller. Just a month ago, they introduced the GameSir G7 Pro 8K Aimlabs Edition and the GameSir G7 Pro Golden Ombre, which is exclusive to Amazon. Now, they’ve teased a new special edition of the controller linked to a recently launched AAA game.

    New Special Edition Coming Soon

    According to a post on X from GameSir, the GameSir G7 Pro is set to have a special edition inspired by the newly launched Nioh 3. This controller is being developed in partnership with Koei Tecmo Games and is expected to be officially announced on Wednesday, February 11. It will be known as the GameSir G7 Pro 8K PC Nioh 3 Edition.

    Specifications and Design Details

    The name suggests that this is a variation of the GameSir G7 Pro 8K Aimlabs Edition, indicating it’s a PC-only controller featuring an 8,000Hz polling rate and second-generation Mag-Res TMR sticks. GameSir’s announcement also provides an early preview of the controller’s design.

    From the image shared, the controller features a dragon design on the faceplate. Additionally, it includes red thumbstick caps, a golden D-Pad, and ABXY buttons that utilize the same font showcased in the video game. The image also reveals a charging dock that has the game’s title printed on it.

    Anticipation for Pricing and Availability

    Since the controller’s appearance is already known, the announcement tomorrow should focus on revealing pricing and when it will be available.

    The GameSir G7 Pro 8K PC Nioh 3 Edition isn’t the first special edition of the G7 Pro linked to a video game. Last year, GameSir also launched the G7 Pro Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Edition and the G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero Edition. There was even a G7 Pro Dragon’s Dogma edition that wasn’t officially announced but was spotted at the 2025 Tokyo Game Show.

    GameSir on X.

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  • Top Tactical Strategy Game with 88 Metascore Now 95% Off on Steam

    Top Tactical Strategy Game with 88 Metascore Now 95% Off on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Significant Discount: XCOM 2 is currently available for $2.99, down from its regular price of $59.99, as part of a 2K publisher sale ending on February 19, 2025.

    2. Game Background: The game, created by Firaxis Games, is set 20 years after XCOM: Enemy Unknown, where players must rebuild XCOM to fight against alien control.

    3. Player Experience: XCOM 2 has received mixed feedback, with some players finding the start challenging and the later stages easier; it offers four difficulty settings for customization.

    4. Positive Reception: The game has been well-received, winning IGN’s Best Strategy Game of the Year and holding an 88 Metascore on Metacritic, with 84% of over 106,000 Steam reviews being favorable.

    5. DLC Discounts: While XCOM 2 is heavily discounted, its gameplay is enhanced by downloadable content like XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, which is also on sale for $3.99 at a 90% discount.


    XCOM 2 is now being offered at a significant discount on Steam, dropping to just $2.99 from its standard cost of $59.99. This pricing is part of the active 2K publisher sale, which features a variety of titles from the same publisher. The promotion is set to conclude on February 19, 2025.

    Game Overview

    Created by Firaxis Games and released by 2K, XCOM 2 launched in 2016 as a tactical strategy game that requires players to think carefully. The story takes place 20 years after its predecessor, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, during a time when Earth is under alien control.

    Players are challenged to rebuild the damaged XCOM forces to fight back against the oppressive ADVENT regime. They can recruit soldiers from five unique classes, each featuring its own skill tree for character growth. Besides combat, players also manage the Avenger, an alien ship that XCOM has captured and modified for their use.

    Player Feedback

    XCOM 2 has faced some critique from GameStar, which mentioned that the game’s beginning can be quite tough and potentially frustrating, while the later stages can become overly simple after numerous upgrades. The game does provide four difficulty settings, enabling players to customize their gaming experience according to their preferences.

    Upon its release, XCOM 2 received positive acclaim, earning the IGN Best Strategy Game of the Year award. It has amassed over 106,000 reviews on Steam, with 84% of them being favorable. On Metacritic, it holds a Metascore of 88. The game is also rated as Playable on Steam Deck and offers full support for five languages (interface, audio, and subtitles), along with partial support for an additional six (interface and subtitles).

    Additional Discounts

    Although a 95% discount for XCOM 2 is remarkable, it’s essential to recognize that this title often sees such price drops. Furthermore, a significant portion of its gameplay experience is linked to downloadable content, especially the notable XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, which is currently available for $3.99 at a 90% discount. Other DLCs are also discounted.

    You can purchase the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C wireless controller on Amazon.

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for price adjustments made by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned here was accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to time limits and/or limited stock.

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  • Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike: Inductive Buttons & Haptic Feedback

    Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike: Inductive Buttons & Haptic Feedback

    Key Takeaways

    1. Price and Design: The Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike is priced at $179.99, featuring a sleek white design with black buttons.

    2. Lightweight and High Performance: Weighing only 61 grams, it includes a 44,000 DPI Hero 2 sensor and an 8,000 Hz wireless polling rate.

    3. Innovative Haptic Feedback: The mouse employs a Haptic Inductive Trigger System (HITS) that replaces traditional switches, allowing for customizable click sensations without noise.

    4. Customizable Settings: Users can adjust click feel and latency through software, with claims of reducing click latency by up to 30 milliseconds.

    5. Battery Life and Compatibility: Compatible with Windows and macOS, it offers up to 90 hours of battery life on a single charge and supports Logitech Powerplay for wireless charging.


    The Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike was revealed last September, and now this top-tier gaming mouse has finally hit the market. You can find it on Amazon and in the Logitech online store priced at $179.99, featuring a sleek white design paired with black buttons.

    Exceptional Features

    Logitech defends the high price point by highlighting several key features, including a featherlight weight of just 61 grams, a remarkable 44,000 DPI Hero 2 sensor, and a wireless polling rate of 8,000 Hz through the provided Logitech Lightspeed USB dongle. However, the standout feature is its innovative “Haptic Inductive Trigger System (HITS).” This system replaces traditional micro-switches in the left and right buttons with an inductive mechanism that senses how deeply the button is pressed, all without any clicking noise.

    Unique Click Feedback

    The click sensation is mimicked by a vibration motor, allowing users to adjust the click feel across six different settings. A significant benefit of this technology is that both the actuation and reset points can be customized using the software, so you can tailor it to fit your personal gaming style. Logitech claims this innovation can cut down click latency by as much as 30 milliseconds, dubbing it a “breakthrough” in the realm of gaming mice.

    Compatibility and Performance

    The Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike works seamlessly with both Windows and macOS systems. It features a built-in battery that reportedly lasts up to 90 hours on a single charge, and it also supports Logitech Powerplay for optional wireless charging. Logitech boasts a maximum acceleration of 88 G and speeds reaching up to 888 IPS.

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  • GuliKit Hyperlink 2: Connect Any Controller to Switch, PC & Steam Deck for $17

    GuliKit Hyperlink 2: Connect Any Controller to Switch, PC & Steam Deck for $17

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GuliKit Hyperlink 2 is a budget-friendly dongle that connects non-compatible controllers to the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
    2. It offers compatibility with multiple devices, including Windows PCs, Steam Deck, and Steam Machines, with low wireless lag (as low as 2.95 ms).
    3. The dongle supports various controllers, such as Xbox One, Xbox Series, Sony DualShock 4, DualSense, and Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
    4. Users can enjoy features like vibration and motion controls without needing to install drivers or apps, and devices remain paired after switching.
    5. The GuliKit Hyperlink 2 is priced at $17 on Amazon.


    The GuliKit Hyperlink 2 is being advertised as a more affordable and compact option compared to the 8BitDo USB Wireless Adapter 2. Its function is quite similar, allowing controllers that don’t naturally work with the Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 to connect through this dongle.

    Compatibility Across Devices

    The Hyperlink 2 isn’t just for Nintendo; it also works with Windows PCs, the Steam Deck (if you have the right USB-C adapter), and the Steam Machine. On these systems, the dongle aims to minimize wireless lag, achieving as low as 2.95 ms. However, the actual latency you experience can vary based on the controller used. For instance, GuliKit states that the latency with the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is 5.95 ms when using the dongle, compared to 8 to 30 ms with a standard Bluetooth connection.

    Supported Controllers

    The GuliKit Hyperlink 2 works with all Xbox One and Xbox Series controllers, along with the Sony DualShock 4, DualSense, DualSense Edge, and the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. If you already have one of these controllers, you might save money by not needing to purchase the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. The dongle also allows for features like vibration and motion controls in certain games, and there’s no need to install any drivers or apps. Once you pair a gamepad with the dongle, it remains paired even when switching between devices.

    The GuliKit Hyperlink 2 is currently priced at $17 on Amazon. For further information about this USB dongle, check out the manufacturer’s website.

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  • Microsoft anticipates current-gen consoles will last beyond Xbox, PS6

    Microsoft anticipates current-gen consoles will last beyond Xbox, PS6

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pricing concerns for the upcoming Xbox console and PS6 may make them less affordable for many gamers due to increased costs for storage and memory.
    2. Microsoft believes the current generation consoles (Xbox Series X|S and PS5) will have a longer lifespan, supported by backward compatibility and ongoing support for older systems.
    3. There is a high demand for budget-friendly gaming options as the new consoles are expected to be priced between $600 and $900, while current models are more expensive than at launch.
    4. Microsoft may not release a budget version of the upcoming console/PC hybrid, but there could be simplified configurations from OEM partners to cater to less affluent gamers.
    5. Sales of current Xbox consoles are declining, raising doubts about production sustainability, while the PS5 is positioned better for future success even after the launch of the PS6.


    One of the main issues with the upcoming Xbox console and PS6 is their pricing. The increased costs for storage and memory might make these new systems less affordable for many gamers. Nevertheless, a recent report suggests that Microsoft believes the current generation consoles will remain relevant for a long time.

    Insights from Jez Corden

    Jez Corden from Windows Central shared insights regarding future Xbox hardware. He explained how Microsoft regards the existing consoles:

    He mentioned, “I’ve been informed that Microsoft envisions the Gen-9 Xbox Series X|S and PS5 to have a longer lifespan than expected due to this expanding hardware endpoint ecosystem.”

    Corden pointed out that support for older games on PS4 and Xbox One continued for several years even after the new models were released. He also noted that developers are planning for sustained support for less powerful devices, such as the Switch 2 and Steam Deck. This, combined with backward compatibility, would simplify the development of games for older systems.

    Market Demand for Affordable Options

    With the speculations surrounding the pricing of the new Xbox console and PS6, a significant demand for budget-friendly alternatives is anticipated. Microsoft has described its next gaming system as “high-end.” In contrast, some sources predict that the PlayStation counterpart could be priced between $600 and $900 MSRP. Additionally, concerns arise as both the Series X|S and PS5 are currently more expensive than they were at their 2020 launch.

    When Microsoft first launched the Series X, it came along with the more affordable Series S. However, this might not be the situation for the console/PC hybrid, which AMD suggested may be released in 2027. Corden did mention that OEM partners might provide simplified configurations to meet the needs of less affluent gamers.

    Sales Challenges and Future Outlook

    Skepticism surrounds the Windows Central report, as the available Xbox consoles are facing challenges in attracting buyers. Sales have dropped significantly as the company has shifted its focus towards Windows devices and cross-platform games. Analysts are questioning whether it is reasonable to continue production at this point. Conversely, the PS5 appears to be in a better position to succeed even after the PS6 is launched.

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  • Buy Limited Edition Analogue 3D Now Available for Purchase

    Buy Limited Edition Analogue 3D Now Available for Purchase

    Key Takeaways

    1. Analogue has launched the Analogue 3D Prototype Limited Editions, priced at $299.99, which is $30 more than the standard Black and White models.
    2. The limited editions are available in five colors: Atomic Purple, Extreme Green, Ghost, Glacier, and Ocean, featuring a see-through shell.
    3. Each console comes with a color-matched 16GB SD card, HDMI cable, USB cable, and a wall adapter, but does not include a controller.
    4. Customers can purchase a maximum of two units, with orders shipped within 24 hours.
    5. Various controller options are available for purchase, including the 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth controller in matching colors, as well as original N64 controllers.


    Following a recent announcement, Analogue has started to sell the Analogue 3D Prototype Limited Editions. These special versions of the console are priced higher than the regular edition that was launched in late 2025 and are offered in a small number.

    Color Options and Accessories

    The Analogue 3D Prototype Limited Editions come in five different colors inspired by unreleased shades of the original Nintendo 64. The available colors are Atomic Purple, Extreme Green, Ghost, Glacier, and Ocean. Each console features a see-through shell and includes a color-matched 16GB SD card, HDMI cable, USB cable, and a wall adapter.

    Pricing and Purchase Limitations

    Analogue has set the price of the Analogue 3D Prototype Limited Editions at $299.99, which is $30 more than the Black and White models. The company states that orders will be shipped within a 24-hour timeframe. There is a restriction on how many units a customer can buy, limited to just two.

    Controller Options

    It’s worth mentioning that, aside from the accessories listed above, the Analogue 3D does not include a controller, similar to the standard version. However, there are various controller options available. Buyers can choose from a Black, White, or Gray 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth controller (which is available on Amazon for $39.99), a Nintendo Switch Online N64 controller, or even a wired N64 controller, as the Analogue 3D includes four ports for original-style controllers.

    If you decide to get one of the Analogue 3D Prototype Limited Editions, you might also want to buy a matching controller. 8BitDo has you sorted since they offer the 8BitDo 64 in the same Limited Edition colors as well.

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