Tag: arcade controller

  • 8BitDo Launches Upgrade Kit with Silent Linear Switches for Arcade Controller

    8BitDo Launches Upgrade Kit with Silent Linear Switches for Arcade Controller

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo introduced the Arcade Controller, a leverless option for Windows PCs, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox consoles.
    2. The Arcade Controller features Kailh Wizard low-profile mechanical switches with a 1.2mm pre-travel distance.
    3. The Upgrade Kit includes 16 silent Kailh Purple Glede linear switches with a 0.8mm pre-travel, gold keycaps, a keycap puller, and a wrist rest.
    4. The Upgrade Kit is priced at $29.99 and compatible with N-edition and Xbox Edition controllers, but not needed for the Signature Edition.
    5. The Arcade Controller retails for $89.99, with a discounted price of $69.29 for Amazon Prime members.


    Last year, 8BitDo introduced the Arcade Controller, a leverless option designed for Windows PCs, Nintendo Switch (2) systems, and Xbox consoles. Now, they have revealed an upgrade kit that aims to boost the overall user experience.

    Features of the Arcade Controller

    The Arcade Controller is equipped with Kailh Wizard low-profile mechanical switches, which are known for their clicky feedback and a pre-travel distance of 1.2mm. But if you’re someone who likes quieter keys and a more compact pre-travel, the 8BitDo Upgrade Kit for Arcade Controller is an ideal choice.

    What’s Included in the Upgrade Kit?

    This upgrade kit includes 16 Kailh Purple Glede linear switches that are designed to be silent, along with a shorter pre-travel of 0.8mm. Additionally, 8BitDo provides gold keycaps to swap out the black and red keycaps that come with the original controller. To make the process easier, a keycap puller and a wrist rest are also included in the package.

    The price for the 8BitDo Upgrade Kit for Arcade Controller is set at $29.99, and it’s currently available for purchase from the 8BitDo eShop. The Arcade Controller itself retails for $89.99, but if you have an Amazon Prime membership, you can grab it for $69.29 on Amazon.

    Compatibility of the Upgrade Kit

    The 8BitDo Upgrade Kit for Arcade Controller is said to be compatible with both the N-edition and the Xbox Edition. However, if you possess the Signature Edition, you won’t need this upgrade kit for the switches, as the Kailh Purple Glede linear switches are already included in that version.

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  • Hori Launches Joystick-Free Street Fighter 6 Arcade Controller for PS5, PS4, PC

    Hori Launches Joystick-Free Street Fighter 6 Arcade Controller for PS5, PS4, PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Hori SPF-049 Nolva arcade controller is designed for Street Fighter 6 and is compatible with PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Windows PCs.

    2. It features a button-only layout with eight action buttons, four directional buttons, and three customizable buttons, along with a touch pad for PlayStation systems.

    3. The controller connects via a wired USB-C setup and is compatible with Windows 10 and 11 in XInput mode, coming with a 3-meter USB-C cable.

    4. The design includes dimensions of 30 x 21 x 3 cm and a weight of 710 g, with a slip-resistant base for stability during gameplay.

    5. Priced at 19,980 yen (approximately $139), it is available for purchase from the Hori Store in Japan.


    Hori has recently introduced a new version of its Nolva all-button arcade controller, specifically designed for Street Fighter 6. This controller, known as the SPF-049, is compatible with PlayStation 4 and 5 consoles, as well as Windows gaming PCs. It features graphics and names of ten Street Fighter characters—Cammy, Chun-Li, E. Honda, Gouki, Jamie, Luke, Manon, Marisa, Rashid, and Zangief. Priced at 19,980 yen (around $139), it can be purchased from the Hori Store in Japan.

    Controller Features

    Unlike traditional controllers, the Nolva uses buttons exclusively, eliminating the joystick for gameplay. It includes eight action buttons, four directional buttons, and three custom buttons that can be swapped out as needed. Additionally, it sports a touch pad and a touch button that works only with PlayStation systems. Users can reprogram the main buttons from their standard settings to different single functions, either via the controller itself or through the Hori Device Manager application.

    Connectivity and Compatibility

    This controller connects via a wired USB-C setup and is only meant to work with Windows 10 and 11 computers in XInput mode. It comes with a 3-meter (9.8 ft.) USB-C to USB-C cable for easy connectivity. For those looking to connect to PS4 consoles, there’s an optional SPF-015 DualSense USB-A to USB-C cable available.

    Design and Additional Features

    The dimensions of the controller are 30 x 21 x 3 cm (11.8 x 8.3 x 1.2 in.), and it weighs 710 g (25 oz.). Hori mentions a slip-resistant base that helps keep the controller stable during intense gaming sessions. Furthermore, it includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack for those who want to play quietly.

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  • Sony Unveils Project Defiant: New Wireless Controller for PS5, PC

    Sony Unveils Project Defiant: New Wireless Controller for PS5, PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Overview: Sony has announced Project Defiant, a wireless arcade controller for fighting games compatible with PlayStation 5 and gaming PCs.

    2. Connection Technology: The controller uses PS Link wireless technology for low-latency connections and supports USB-C, but specific latency details are not provided.

    3. Button and Joystick Design: It features mechanical switches for buttons and customizable joystick restriction gates, though it does not mimic traditional arcade layouts.

    4. Additional Features: Includes a power button for wireless PS5 activation and a DualSense touchpad, with runtime details still to be revealed.

    5. Release Information: Project Defiant is expected to launch in 2026, with a wired alternative, the Razer Kitsune arcade controller, currently available.


    Sony has unveiled Project Defiant, a new wireless arcade controller designed for fighting games like Street Fighter, compatible with PlayStation 5 consoles (available here on Amazon) and gaming PCs. This controller will come with a specially designed carry case that features a sling, aimed at safeguarding the joysticks from potential damage during travel.

    Connection and Latency Features

    The controller utilizes PS Link wireless technology, which was introduced in 2023, allowing for low-latency connections. It also supports USB-C connections. However, there are no specific details about the exact wireless latency yet. Additionally, it remains unclear if players engaging in simultaneous fighting games will need separate PS Link USB adapters (available here on Amazon).

    Button Layout and Joystick Design

    Project Defiant’s buttons are equipped with mechanical switches, but their arrangement does not replicate the traditional layout found on Street Fighter arcade cabinets. Therefore, it’s uncertain how effective the controller will be for competitive play.

    Moreover, Sony has not provided information about the mechanism used for the joystick, leaving questions about its durability under heavy use and potential drift issues. Users can customize the joystick with octagonal, round, or square restriction gates to control its movement in specific directions.

    Additional Features and Release Date

    The controller features a power button that allows wireless activation of a PlayStation 5 and includes a DualSense touchpad for compatibility with newer games. Further details regarding runtime and other specifications have yet to be announced.

    The Sony Project Defiant is set to launch in 2026. For those with a PC or PS5 who wish to avoid the wait, the wired Razer Kitsune arcade controller is an available option (sold here on Amazon).

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