Alright, here we have my absolute favorite modern N64 controller.
In my last post in this series, I mentioned I had to RMA my USB controller because it didn't work with windows. While I was waiting for the replacement, I decided to get the Retro-Bit Tribute64 on Amazon.
It's absolutely fantastic!
Here's the scoop.
This controller, like the first one I reviewed is loosely based on the iconic Hori Pad. But, it's not a Hori pad. Many people think this controller will be too small like the Hori bad, but it's just an illusion and or bias. This controller is sized perfectly.
But unlike the cheap controller, this one feels great. But more specifically, it feels like an N64 controller but without the flaws.
The gray plastic feels exactly like a real N64 controller, and the unique prong shaped handles feel natural to any N64 player. But, unlike the previous controllers, the A, B, Start, and C-buttons feel exactly like the real deal. Their hard plastic, perfect colors, and press-feel are perfect. For someone who's looking for a hit of nostalgia with the connivence of a modern controller, this will tickle your brain in just the right way.
I cannot stress enough how much I like the feel of this controller. The right side feels just like the right side of the controller you remember from your child hood.
The left side, however, mixes it up - and dare I say, is what the N64 SHOULD have been. The 8-way gated Joystick feels great, and also feels natural to anyone who's played with a modern controller. Instead of the awkward middle grip, this controller feels perfect.
The shoulder buttons feel spot on for the N64, and like the others, it moves the Z buttons to where L2 and R2 would be naturally.
I should also mention the D-Pad. It's pretty great and natural to use. It's in the same place as modern xBox or 8BitDo controllers, so it's withing reach and perfectly usable.
Not only does it have the perfect blend of retro feel and modern utility, but it's also wireless and works with a real N64! The actually include wireless adaptors both for PC/USB as well as for the N64 itself. While I don't have access to my childhood N64 at the moment, this would be the way to play going forward, especially since most original controllers have failing joysticks at this point.
I LOVE THIS THING.
Even after I went though my N64 nostalgia phase, I kept this on the couch, just because it made me happy to pick up and fiddle with while I was doing other things. It hits the spot.
BUT IS THIS THE END?
No.
Recently I reviewed the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless, which has become my default go-to controller for PC gaming. I really love that thing. But, of course, I'll still pick up the Tribute64 for my N64 needs. That said, I was pleasantly surprised to see that 8BitDo has recently release their own take on the N64. I will be picking up one of these eventually, and can't wait to try it out. Though, TBH I'm pretty sure I know what to expect - the form factor appears to be identical to the Ultimate 2C I already own, but it drops the second analog & has the N64 button layout on the right. It's pretty easy to imagine the grip feel & quality of the 8BitDo I already own projected onto the N64 button mapping.
While I love the 8BitDo as my default PC controller, I suspect I probably won't like the 8BitDo's as much as the Tribute64. Not for lack of quality, but for the same reason the Retro Fighters is in second place: it will be a great controller to be sure, but the thing that I enjoy about the Tribute64 is the nostalgia hit from the perfect shape, perfect plastic, perfect buttons.
The Tribute64 just hits the spot for some Mario64, Bomberman 64, Banjo Kazooie, etc. It will be hard to compete with that for me, even though I'm sure the 8BitDo's offering will be great. I guess we'll have to wait and see and I'll post an update when it arrives!
