I would also say that this controller is great for Link's awakening. Especially since that game uses analogue stick for movement, yet locks you into 8 directions. This feels odd on the Switch analogue sticks, but feels perfectly at home on this controller. One major benefit with the controller is how pocketable it is without the sticks... Sure It's a compromised experience since the analogue sticks are converted in to digital d-pads, but for a lot of games you might not need analogue movement. Especially on the Switch where analog movement is actually hard to pull off due to the small travel on the sticks... I see the joy-cons more as a circular 360-degree controller rather than full range analogue controller anyway. :)
I've thought about getting this controller for Zelda LA and Smash Brothers, but I think it may just be a bit to small for me to be comfortable. If the came out with a version like this but a little bigger and more ergonomic, I'd be in.
If you happen to have one, the official Switch SNES controller (for the Nintendo Switch Online SNES library) also works really, really well for Super Mario Wonder, for all the reasons you've laid out here. It has all the necessary inputs, and feels just like playing Super Mario World on an original SNES, except of course it's Wonder on a Switch. That said, knowing I could also connect it to my PC has me eyeing up the Lite, so, thanks for that. 😉
I use my 8bitdo pro 2. I have it for more than 2 years and rarely used it, but it's great for Mario wonder. I hope it will still work on whatever switch 2 is gonna be.
I've been playing with an NSO SNES controller. You don't have Home/Capture buttons but the controller is probably best all around for this specific game.
I've been playing with the 8bitdo SN30 and it's been perfect for this game. I've never felt any need to get the lite, but I think this video just changed my mind.
I've been using the Lite mostly for Dead Cells when traveling, and having a controller be so light and compact with a precise dpad is a huge plus when my bag is crammed full of other things. I also have a set of 3D printed grips for it that doesn't take up much space if I want a little more comfort.
Wonderful review! Love the new format as well. Looking forward to more "Russ's video game reviews" :D Playing with an external controller is a nice idea. Might do that as well with my own SN30Pro.
I'd love to see more videos like this! Tbh with most videos of yours I tend to be here for 70% of your experience and 40% of the actual hardware reviews because the way you present your story and how you incorporated your gadgets into your lifestyle/workflow is just nice to listen to haha
I really enjoyed this video. I liked how it kept going off-topic, touching on other things connected to but not strictly relevant to the main topic of the video.
I think you struck the right balance between hardware, the game, and why the connection matters! I'd love to see similar videos like this - maybe best controller for N64 games, arcade, or something like Metal Gear Solid emulation (never played it).
I love SMB 2 as well, similar to your childhood. The day after my grandad retired in the mid-80s, he bought an NES to see what all his grandkids were talking about. He was an early riser and would usually have all his housework and chores done by 8:00 AM and would spend the rest of his morning playing the NES so he could connect with his grandkids (and because it was fun). He had SMB 2, Zelda 2, Contra, and SMB 3. He was the only person I knew that could beat Contra without the Konami code, could beat SMB 3 in about 15 minutes, and could ace SMB 2 without taking any damage. Us grandkids would love sitting in front of the tv while he played from the couch and slaughtered these games that gave us so much trouble. He was a legend and an amazing man. Thanks for that nostalgia trip, and for the solid perspective on this controller. All the best, Russ.
Bought one of these a while back and it was fun at first but, too small for my hands. I definitely prefer the 8BitDo Pro 2 (SN30 Pro with grip), it has all the native SNES control scheme while adding features that only add to the experience. Things like grip, extra buttons, and control sticks give a lot more options than the cramped Lite controller. While portability is great, I don't really need it to be portable, ever. I rarely need to bring my switch out of the house; everyone that wants to play switch pretty much has one at this point. On the rare occasion that I am bringing my switch out of the house, I always need a bag so, carrying a "bulky" controller isn't necessarily an issue. I rarely have a situation where I'm thinking, "Dang, this controller is too big to carry around." Not only that but, if I want to play Xbox or PC games, the controller works fantastic for all games so, I'm not risking limiting myself to a 2d control-set. Regardless, great video Russ, glad to see you're enjoying the game too!
I love my 8bitdo lite as a shirt pocket companion to phone emulation. I know that's not the point of the vid but it's nice to see it getting some love. I have many other controllers for different purposes but that model is so cool in being fully functional while fully flat; in-line shoulder buttons, d-pads mapped as joysticks etc, kind of genius for pocketable function.
exactly, this controller has been around for ages and its great to hear a reviewer bring it up again to talk about how portable and good it actually is even though there's already a newer 8bitdo lite 2 version that's released w the joysticks and trigger buttons. this one is perfect for platformers!
I have 2 of these controllers and recommend them to everyone, I usually just get tons of odd looks due to the 3 dpads, but if you retro game a ton they are wonderful
I know you're talking more about portability but in terms of raw comfort, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is exactly what you're looking for. It's the same button layout as the Pro you mentioned but it is shaped like a proper controller in that it has full grips for your hands. The added ergonomics really help with extended play times.
Hey Russ, i definitely want to give the controller a chance. If it's too small, it will be perfect for the kids to play platformers on. speaking of controllers, have you considered giving the CRKD Nitro Deck a review? I ordered one and must say, i really like its "feel" with the switch so far! The magnetic hall sensors guarantee no drift, the button response is smooth and there's mappable buttons underneath. It does add some bulk to the switch; but not as big as steam deck and it feels pretty solid in the hands! Would love to see a review on it from you one day! Thanks for all the awesome vidz!
Spoiler alert: Mario turns into Donkey Kong and sprays his enemies with insecticide. Its like Donkey Kong 3 role reversal, and it is a wild power-up. Game changing.
I'm thinking of maybe buying the Lite controller as it looks compact yet comfortable when travelling. I'm assuming the extra buttons and dpad is to accommodate both left and right handed players?
Excellent video, Russ. It's like a series of micro review of several devices, with a narrow focus on platformers. Please do more with other genres in mind!
This video is very informative. I was stuck between this specific device and the 8bitdo Lite 2, because I wanted to play PPSSPP on my android as well. Looks like I'll be making this purchase, since I saw that my brother was playing PSP games with the D-pad. I need a small controller that I can stick inside my pocket and not have to worry about stick drift, which is a thing these days, sadly. Thanks for what you do, Russ!
@@DevinCurrie I love it, but it's not shoroyukanable. It plays platformers well, even Tetris, because it doesn't register unwanted inputs. I do play some soccer games on PPSSPP and it's not the ideal substitute to an analog stick, but it gets the job done, just takes some getting used to. I would've preferred the one with analog sticks, but I don't think it is pocketable.
I'm playing it with my 8bitdo SN 30 Pro + and it feels about perfect. I agree with everything you say here, but I really prefer grips whenever possible. This is absolutely a D-Pad game regardless, and in my opinion it really makes the SNES feel of the SN30 shine. I'm old enough to remember the old NES Mario games and honestly I'm not really sure which one to compare Wonder to... I never really played the SNES ones because, like you, I had a Genesis at the time - so it's kind of nice with all these retro handhelds to experience them fresh these days. I think Wonder stands alone honestly - it's good enough to be it's own thing. For instance, for me Mario 64 is the GOAT - yet Wonder gives me the same kind of vibe despite lacking an entire dimension. It's good stuff.
Fellow 8bitdo SN30 Pro+ owner here, and yeah I totally picked it over the SN30 Pro and other smaller controllers for the added grips; I personally have rather large/long hands and would probably find the latter ones cramped. 😔
Not to put too much work on you, but how about the Lite 2? That has some updated features, but has analog sticks. I'm just curious if they get in the way. Your breakdowns on hardware is great and I love watching your videos.
Hi, yes I have that controller and did test it with the game, it works well but the d-pad placement isn't ideal for me (but better than on a joycon or Switch Lite because it is inset). One nice thing about the Lite 2 is that it uses rubber membranes like on the Switch Lite, so it's nearly identical in terms of feel.
Your gripes at around two minutes in are exactly why I invested in the Hori...pro...controller...grip...things. Switch is almost as comfortable to hold for a long time as the Deck now.
its a nice controller option. i have an 8bitdo zero2 which is too small and lacks alot of buttons that are cumbersome to work around at times. it works wonders(no pun intended) on my ipad but it really is too small. seeing this video has me considering selling it if i can and just getting the controller mentioned here
This kind of video is really cool - niche (but applicable to many games) but enthusiastic, and you have a controller + game review all in one. This would be a cool series to continue!
I’m always fascinated how few ppl seem to suggest alternate joycons like the Split Pad Pro in situations like this. The default Joycon are horrendous imo, yet it still seems most ppl who play portably don’t recognize there are other options. I’m sure Russ is aware, but weird to see them not at least get a mention here. Granted, they do have that modern grip he dislikes.
I'm personally biased against the Hori controller because that's what was attached to my daughter's switch when one of the Joy Con rails broke. In my opinion it's too big and bulky to be connected to a Switch with its honestly very frail rails. They're basically held on with just a couple of screws in a couple of plastic studs. Other than that it seemed like a great controller. If we'd bought the version that came with the center part so you could use it in docked mode, it'd probably have been very nice.
When I started trying to get my wife into gaming she felt intimidated by analog sticks for some reason. Seeing as I started her off with Stardew Valley and the likes, which does not need analog controls - this is the controller I bought for her and the controller she used for over a year, until she "stole" one of my SN30 Pro controllers. :D
My 8BitDo SN30 Pro controller will always be my controller of choice for any 2D side-scrolling platformer such as Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Sonic Superstars, Mega Man 11, Celeste, Super Meat Boy, Bloodstained, Duke Nukem, TMNT: Shredder's Revenge, Monster World IV, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Metroid Dread, Cuphead, Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero, Ninja Gaiden III, Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure, Popful Mail, Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest, Contra 3: The Alien Wars, Earthworm Jim 2, Rocket Knight Adventure, and Ori and the Blind Forest,
i have this controller, bought it on a whim at the game shop one day after seeing reviews about it almost a year ago, but it has been so amazing and pocketable for not only switch /switch lite gaming but also for Ipad gaming. i really love how easy and seamlessly it connects to my devices. would still recommend this to people anyday if they r looking for a portable controller for any 2D games
The 8BitDo Lite controller was the $25 hack for playing Ryu, Ken, and Terry in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. D-Pad instead of a stick meant that you could more easily use the classic moves those characters offer.
This was such a cool idea for a controller but one that flopped in execution. Idk why no controller has circle pads instead of sticks. If they really want to make a flat controller for storage, they could use sliders and still have analog controllers
Oddly enough I was playing Mario Wonder on my PC with a PS4 controller and it made me fall in love with the D-Pad. It's so so good for platformers like these but then, maybe it's just that Wonder is such a joy and stellar platformer to play that the d-pad just shines through it. The 8Bitdo Wireless Controller Adapter is hands down one of my best purchases this year.
I agree 100% with the comment that this is the best Super Mario Bros. game since SMB2. I too was eight when SMB2 was released and also grew up without an SNES in a Sega Genesis family. I look forward to hearing you review more games.
For portable I’ve been playing it with the Hori Split Pad Compact, and on the TV either the NSO SNES controller or 8bitdo Pro 2. It’s been pretty good so far!
Zelda 2 had a lot of interesting ideas that unfortunately seem to have been completely forgotten by the following Zelda games. Still not a very good game honestly... At least some of the ideas from Mario 2 made it to the following games in the series!
1:05 😵💫 so I guess I been living under a rock because I didn't know there was another Super Mario bros game, there are honestly so many I don't know which one is the most recent and they all look the same to me so I stopped paying attention to them, I haven't played a mario game since the collection release because I like 64 and Galaxy I think I played Super Mario Bros 2 or whatever the one on the wii was or wii u i can't remember
Thanks so much for this video. My girlfriend and I are playing through Wonder together and we can’t stand using the Joycons on their side. Just ordered 2 of them!
My only gripe with Wonder is not being able to change the run and jump buttons in-game. The right stick gets in the way and REALLY gets in the way in handheld. I know the buttons can be remapped system-wide, but it would have been nice if they would allow it in-game or just gave us X/A run/jump controls straight away.
I have 8bitdo pro 2 and 8bitdo lite 2, almost always use the pro 2, but for platforming games the lite 2 is just perfect, its compact and the dpad is a lot more confortable for platforming. Also in some cases I rlly appreciate a analogue stick for some games, like in advanced stages on celeste or even in water stages of mario wonder, so the lite 2 stays as the best, atleast for me.l.
SMB3 and SMW can’t be overlooked. I feel like SMB2 was out of place. I was about the same age as you when it came out and played it like crazy but it never felt like a Mario game to me and I’m feeling that same thing with Wonder so your assessment of it makes sense to me. I know it’s a Mario game but something about it feels like it’s out in of place in the Mario line up. I can’t exactly explain what that is but with that said I am loving the game.
SMB2 that was released in the west was a gfx-swapped version of an entirely different Japanese game (Doki Doki Panic), so that would certainly explain why you felt it was out of place.
I'll have to remember this. Overall I really like the Lite controller. It's the controller I take to work for playing games on breaks (I swear!). It's small and easy to store, very durable (more so since it has no analog) and keeps a charge for a really long time
Because I am old I have spent thousands of hours on all the OG Super Mario Bros 2D platformers all the way back to the original NES in the late 80's. I spent the most time on Super Mario World on the SNES and the SNES controller was so perfectly matched to that game as well as every other Mario 2D game that it is the only controller design I can enjoy using. This is why the official Nintendo SNES wireless controller released for use with Nintendo Switch Online SNES games is the only controller for me. It is equally perfect with Super Mario Bros Wonder. I have multiple 8bitdo's and they are all great is the Pro Controller but only that SNES form factor gets the job done for me.
I too was a genesis kid. Our lake house came with an NES... Don't ask, there was a lot of weird things with that lake house, like an old family album. Also there was a neighbor connection to that house. A lot with that house confused me. It was a great house, with only ONE shower and it wasn't in the Master Bath. That just had a giant tub. OH and our Conversion Van had an NES in it. But the lake house came with a few games. Ultima, Mario 1 and Duck Hunt, Mario 3, with the gun. None of us kids figured out Ultima since we never heard of RPGs at that time. Oh and there was an old Nintendo Power which was kind of neat.
Interesting controller, but I'd personally pick the SN30Pro or Pro 2 at that size. It's a bit too bulky to be pocketable and the dual dpad and buttons seem too weird to me, id rather just have analogue there. I do like the 8bitdo micro but the reports of latency put me off, so i ended up getting the nano as that works really well as an "emergency controller" as you put it. However I struggle to actually use it as it's never recognized well. I really wish there was something in between the 8bitdo lite and the nano but with no latency issues.
Russ i literally bought this controller for iron crypticle since it was hard to shoot where i wanted with the right analog stick. Great game if you haven't tried it.
Ive had my lite controller for a few years now i use it to play all the switch online games too along with the fire emblem and dragon quest titles on switch and several more 2d oriented games on steam when i dock my deck
Being half your age, I need that glorious OLED display closer to my eyes, so laying the switch in my lap or on a table to use an additional controller is 😩. Fortunately, my recently acquired Nitro Deck in retro purple 👍👍 is a Wonderful Way (tm) to play Mario Wonder. Having said all this, I plan on hooking up the Switch to my tv and….of course…..purchasing the 8 bit do controller, because when I die there will be two coffins- for all my 8 bit do controllers.
I tried this out on Russ' recommendation and I don't regret it. It's a nice feeling controller that disappears into my experience playing the game. Great game pairing!
I currently have 3 8bitdo Ultimate controllers (2 are 2.4ghz, 1 is the bluetooth model), 2 SN30 pro controllers, 6 N30 pro controllers, 2 M30 controllers, 1 of the NeoGeo controllers and the 8bitdo stick. Somehow, I find myself watching this video and considering the 8bitdo Lite.....
There are probably 3 better controllers for SM Wonder, but 2 of them are hard to acquire and the other is a mod; - SN30 (can't find them for sale anymore) - NSO SNES (always out of stock) - 8bitdo Mod Kit OG SNES Besides those I think the 8bitdo lite is a good choice if you already have it. Though you would miss out on the HD rumble. So playing on a Switch Pro Controller makes a lot of sense too, though you would lose the nostalgia factor to the modern d-pad placement and ergonomics.
I mean I know you don't care for the switch ergonomics and buttons. But I use a Hori split pad pro add on. Makes it much much nicer, controllers feel nice in the hands. And a true d pad and such for way better feeling gaming.
![FUN is Wireless!｜8BitDo Arcade Stick [Nintendo Switch]](/img/n.gif)
I would also say that this controller is great for Link's awakening. Especially since that game uses analogue stick for movement, yet locks you into 8 directions. This feels odd on the Switch analogue sticks, but feels perfectly at home on this controller. One major benefit with the controller is how pocketable it is without the sticks... Sure It's a compromised experience since the analogue sticks are converted in to digital d-pads, but for a lot of games you might not need analogue movement. Especially on the Switch where analog movement is actually hard to pull off due to the small travel on the sticks... I see the joy-cons more as a circular 360-degree controller rather than full range analogue controller anyway. :)
I've thought about getting this controller for Zelda LA and Smash Brothers, but I think it may just be a bit to small for me to be comfortable. If the came out with a version like this but a little bigger and more ergonomic, I'd be in.
Piracy is the way. ;)
I like the vibe of this video. Russ is basically a gaming sommelier making pairings between games and hardware
If you happen to have one, the official Switch SNES controller (for the Nintendo Switch Online SNES library) also works really, really well for Super Mario Wonder, for all the reasons you've laid out here. It has all the necessary inputs, and feels just like playing Super Mario World on an original SNES, except of course it's Wonder on a Switch.
That said, knowing I could also connect it to my PC has me eyeing up the Lite, so, thanks for that. 😉
Piracy is the way. ;)
I use my 8bitdo pro 2. I have it for more than 2 years and rarely used it, but it's great for Mario wonder. I hope it will still work on whatever switch 2 is gonna be.
My 8 bit do is connected to the switch but doesn’t work in wonder ?
The only thing mine does is continually rumbling when I play N64 NSO.@@Poundz978
I also now realise how bad the battery life is compared to the oficial pro controller@@Poundz978
It’s also terrific for Metroid Dread.
Even if it doesn't at first it's nothing a firmware update can't fix, i hope
Russ posts a new video I click it
Nearly half the time I am buying what he is recommending but not actually selling himself too
Exactly haha I watch all his videos.
...ok
@@burnzy3210ikr.
Likewise…. He put up a video that says HOW TO DRINK WATER and I will click on it. 😂😂🤣🤣🤣
I've been playing with an NSO SNES controller. You don't have Home/Capture buttons but the controller is probably best all around for this specific game.
Fully agree with that sentiment!
Came to post the same
Yup! Agree 100%. That one is perfect!
I've been using my SN30 Pro
I've been playing with the 8bitdo SN30 and it's been perfect for this game. I've never felt any need to get the lite, but I think this video just changed my mind.
Same here. I agree. I’ve tried the Pro 2 but there is quite a bit of extra lag for some reason compared to the SN30.
I've been using the Lite mostly for Dead Cells when traveling, and having a controller be so light and compact with a precise dpad is a huge plus when my bag is crammed full of other things. I also have a set of 3D printed grips for it that doesn't take up much space if I want a little more comfort.
Woah having your own grips for the Lite sounds neat! 😮
Curious about how it looks, do you have an picture of it (or the 3D printing design) somewhere?
Wonderful review! Love the new format as well. Looking forward to more "Russ's video game reviews" :D
Playing with an external controller is a nice idea. Might do that as well with my own SN30Pro.
I'd love to see more videos like this! Tbh with most videos of yours I tend to be here for 70% of your experience and 40% of the actual hardware reviews because the way you present your story and how you incorporated your gadgets into your lifestyle/workflow is just nice to listen to haha
Giving that 110%, Respect!
I really enjoyed this video. I liked how it kept going off-topic, touching on other things connected to but not strictly relevant to the main topic of the video.
I’ve been using the 8bitdo Pro 2, with the back paddles mapped to Y so I’m not constantly mashing the Y and B face buttons. Works for me!
I think you struck the right balance between hardware, the game, and why the connection matters! I'd love to see similar videos like this - maybe best controller for N64 games, arcade, or something like Metal Gear Solid emulation (never played it).
@ramonandrajo6348 oh I'm already there my friend. Just curious if others would like a guide like this that fits! Haha
I love SMB 2 as well, similar to your childhood. The day after my grandad retired in the mid-80s, he bought an NES to see what all his grandkids were talking about. He was an early riser and would usually have all his housework and chores done by 8:00 AM and would spend the rest of his morning playing the NES so he could connect with his grandkids (and because it was fun). He had SMB 2, Zelda 2, Contra, and SMB 3. He was the only person I knew that could beat Contra without the Konami code, could beat SMB 3 in about 15 minutes, and could ace SMB 2 without taking any damage. Us grandkids would love sitting in front of the tv while he played from the couch and slaughtered these games that gave us so much trouble. He was a legend and an amazing man.
Thanks for that nostalgia trip, and for the solid perspective on this controller.
All the best, Russ.
I saw you talk about this controller on the Retro Handhelds podcast! Made me happy to hear because I've been using the same controller to play Wonder.
I’ve been enjoying this game with my snes switch controller on my tv.
Bought one of these a while back and it was fun at first but, too small for my hands. I definitely prefer the 8BitDo Pro 2 (SN30 Pro with grip), it has all the native SNES control scheme while adding features that only add to the experience. Things like grip, extra buttons, and control sticks give a lot more options than the cramped Lite controller. While portability is great, I don't really need it to be portable, ever. I rarely need to bring my switch out of the house; everyone that wants to play switch pretty much has one at this point. On the rare occasion that I am bringing my switch out of the house, I always need a bag so, carrying a "bulky" controller isn't necessarily an issue. I rarely have a situation where I'm thinking, "Dang, this controller is too big to carry around." Not only that but, if I want to play Xbox or PC games, the controller works fantastic for all games so, I'm not risking limiting myself to a 2d control-set. Regardless, great video Russ, glad to see you're enjoying the game too!
Awesome video Russ. I enjoyed the podcast you were a part of days ago. Keep it up
I love my 8bitdo lite as a shirt pocket companion to phone emulation. I know that's not the point of the vid but it's nice to see it getting some love. I have many other controllers for different purposes but that model is so cool in being fully functional while fully flat; in-line shoulder buttons, d-pads mapped as joysticks etc, kind of genius for pocketable function.
exactly, this controller has been around for ages and its great to hear a reviewer bring it up again to talk about how portable and good it actually is even though there's already a newer 8bitdo lite 2 version that's released w the joysticks and trigger buttons. this one is perfect for platformers!
I personally like the big dpad on the 8Bitdo M30.
I have 2 of these controllers and recommend them to everyone, I usually just get tons of odd looks due to the 3 dpads, but if you retro game a ton they are wonderful
I know you're talking more about portability but in terms of raw comfort, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is exactly what you're looking for. It's the same button layout as the Pro you mentioned but it is shaped like a proper controller in that it has full grips for your hands. The added ergonomics really help with extended play times.
He already did a video on the Pro 2 about 2 years ago.
@@TitoLikesMath okay but I'm talking in reference to playing Mario wonder and 2D side scrollers in general. I'll check that out tho
That’s what I’ve been using it’s a pretty fantastic gamepad
If you actually seen the whole video he actually stated why he felt grips didn't contribute to platforming games.
@@tldr365 I did but I disagree lol
Hey Russ, i definitely want to give the controller a chance. If it's too small, it will be perfect for the kids to play platformers on. speaking of controllers, have you considered giving the CRKD Nitro Deck a review? I ordered one and must say, i really like its "feel" with the switch so far! The magnetic hall sensors guarantee no drift, the button response is smooth and there's mappable buttons underneath. It does add some bulk to the switch; but not as big as steam deck and it feels pretty solid in the hands! Would love to see a review on it from you one day! Thanks for all the awesome vidz!
Spoiler alert: Mario turns into Donkey Kong and sprays his enemies with insecticide. Its like Donkey Kong 3 role reversal, and it is a wild power-up.
Game changing.
Apparently I've been living under a rock. I have the new Super Mario RPG on order, but this is the first in hearing about Wonder
I've just bought the 8bitdo lite controller and it's really good. I'll try it with Super Mario Wonder. Thanks for the tip!
I'm thinking of maybe buying the Lite controller as it looks compact yet comfortable when travelling. I'm assuming the extra buttons and dpad is to accommodate both left and right handed players?
Excellent video, Russ. It's like a series of micro review of several devices, with a narrow focus on platformers. Please do more with other genres in mind!
This video is very informative. I was stuck between this specific device and the 8bitdo Lite 2, because I wanted to play PPSSPP on my android as well. Looks like I'll be making this purchase, since I saw that my brother was playing PSP games with the D-pad. I need a small controller that I can stick inside my pocket and not have to worry about stick drift, which is a thing these days, sadly. Thanks for what you do, Russ!
Any update on your experience assuming you bought the Lite controller? I'm in the same boat as you.
@@DevinCurrie I love it, but it's not shoroyukanable. It plays platformers well, even Tetris, because it doesn't register unwanted inputs. I do play some soccer games on PPSSPP and it's not the ideal substitute to an analog stick, but it gets the job done, just takes some getting used to. I would've preferred the one with analog sticks, but I don't think it is pocketable.
I'm playing it with my 8bitdo SN 30 Pro + and it feels about perfect. I agree with everything you say here, but I really prefer grips whenever possible. This is absolutely a D-Pad game regardless, and in my opinion it really makes the SNES feel of the SN30 shine. I'm old enough to remember the old NES Mario games and honestly I'm not really sure which one to compare Wonder to... I never really played the SNES ones because, like you, I had a Genesis at the time - so it's kind of nice with all these retro handhelds to experience them fresh these days. I think Wonder stands alone honestly - it's good enough to be it's own thing. For instance, for me Mario 64 is the GOAT - yet Wonder gives me the same kind of vibe despite lacking an entire dimension. It's good stuff.
Fellow 8bitdo SN30 Pro+ owner here, and yeah I totally picked it over the SN30 Pro and other smaller controllers for the added grips; I personally have rather large/long hands and would probably find the latter ones cramped. 😔
Not to put too much work on you, but how about the Lite 2? That has some updated features, but has analog sticks. I'm just curious if they get in the way. Your breakdowns on hardware is great and I love watching your videos.
Hi, yes I have that controller and did test it with the game, it works well but the d-pad placement isn't ideal for me (but better than on a joycon or Switch Lite because it is inset). One nice thing about the Lite 2 is that it uses rubber membranes like on the Switch Lite, so it's nearly identical in terms of feel.
Dude, I just bought the Lite for Deadcells and I love it. Funny you review it as I've been hunting for great dpads, guess I found the one already.
Your gripes at around two minutes in are exactly why I invested in the Hori...pro...controller...grip...things. Switch is almost as comfortable to hold for a long time as the Deck now.
The 8bitdo lite is really the ultimate pocket controller.
its a nice controller option. i have an 8bitdo zero2 which is too small and lacks alot of buttons that are cumbersome to work around at times. it works wonders(no pun intended) on my ipad but it really is too small. seeing this video has me considering selling it if i can and just getting the controller mentioned here
How this Quality channel is not 1 million subscribers yet ?
Super Mario 2 is also my fave Mario game... Was the last gift my grandpa gave me before he died when I was a kid...
This kind of video is really cool - niche (but applicable to many games) but enthusiastic, and you have a controller + game review all in one. This would be a cool series to continue!
I’m always fascinated how few ppl seem to suggest alternate joycons like the Split Pad Pro in situations like this. The default Joycon are horrendous imo, yet it still seems most ppl who play portably don’t recognize there are other options. I’m sure Russ is aware, but weird to see them not at least get a mention here. Granted, they do have that modern grip he dislikes.
I'm personally biased against the Hori controller because that's what was attached to my daughter's switch when one of the Joy Con rails broke. In my opinion it's too big and bulky to be connected to a Switch with its honestly very frail rails. They're basically held on with just a couple of screws in a couple of plastic studs. Other than that it seemed like a great controller. If we'd bought the version that came with the center part so you could use it in docked mode, it'd probably have been very nice.
Just added this controller to my Amazon Xmas list!
When I started trying to get my wife into gaming she felt intimidated by analog sticks for some reason.
Seeing as I started her off with Stardew Valley and the likes, which does not need analog controls - this is the controller I bought for her and the controller she used for over a year, until she "stole" one of my SN30 Pro controllers. :D
Id love to hear more of your thoughts on the games you test while testing systems or ones you just like. Great video!
My 8BitDo SN30 Pro controller will always be my controller of choice for any 2D side-scrolling platformer such as Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Sonic Superstars, Mega Man 11, Celeste, Super Meat Boy, Bloodstained, Duke Nukem, TMNT: Shredder's Revenge, Monster World IV, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Metroid Dread, Cuphead, Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero, Ninja Gaiden III, Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure, Popful Mail, Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest, Contra 3: The Alien Wars, Earthworm Jim 2, Rocket Knight Adventure, and Ori and the Blind Forest,
I'm curious how it would feel to play a dual joystick game with two dpads.. probably bad
I tried it when playing Halo on my phone for Game Pass and it's really fun. Horrible, but was a fun little gimmick 😂
^Yep. You can get away with a d-pad for movement, but aiming is impossible.
Dual joystick maybe not but this is the best controller for playing jack bros for virtual boy
I 3d printed a grip for it and it's an amazing controller!
I love the idea of more game-focused vids mate!
i have this controller, bought it on a whim at the game shop one day after seeing reviews about it almost a year ago, but it has been so amazing and pocketable for not only switch /switch lite gaming but also for Ipad gaming. i really love how easy and seamlessly it connects to my devices. would still recommend this to people anyday if they r looking for a portable controller for any 2D games
Interesting, what games do you play on iPad with this?
The 8BitDo Lite controller was the $25 hack for playing Ryu, Ken, and Terry in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. D-Pad instead of a stick meant that you could more easily use the classic moves those characters offer.
This was such a cool idea for a controller but one that flopped in execution. Idk why no controller has circle pads instead of sticks. If they really want to make a flat controller for storage, they could use sliders and still have analog controllers
I'm so glad you acknowledged the correct answer, the SN30 Pro.
Oddly enough I was playing Mario Wonder on my PC with a PS4 controller and it made me fall in love with the D-Pad. It's so so good for platformers like these but then, maybe it's just that Wonder is such a joy and stellar platformer to play that the d-pad just shines through it. The 8Bitdo Wireless Controller Adapter is hands down one of my best purchases this year.
The snes controller Nintendo sells on there online store is the best for wonder
The 8bitdo SN30 is also great, and a clone of the original SNES controller. Very low input latency.
I'm in love with that controller for this game.
8bitdo SN30 Pro was my controller of choice. Bought it exactly for these type of games and retro emulation in general
I'm happy you're continuing to expand the range of content you're covering
depends of what they send him for free
I agree 100% with the comment that this is the best Super Mario Bros. game since SMB2. I too was eight when SMB2 was released and also grew up without an SNES in a Sega Genesis family. I look forward to hearing you review more games.
Yo I love the review. Keep doing what you’re doing Russ!
For portable I’ve been playing it with the Hori Split Pad Compact, and on the TV either the NSO SNES controller or 8bitdo Pro 2. It’s been pretty good so far!
I love this controller. I mostly use it for GBA games as the clicky short travel pad and buttons remind me of my old GBA SP or my 3DS XL.
I used the NSO SNES controller for most of the game and it was exquisite.
Love this angle, great vid! We also had a lot of love for SMB2 back in the day (same for Zelda 2, I think both are seriously underrated!)
Zelda 2 had a lot of interesting ideas that unfortunately seem to have been completely forgotten by the following Zelda games. Still not a very good game honestly...
At least some of the ideas from Mario 2 made it to the following games in the series!
Thanks for the review, ordered one to play with Analog Pocket while docked 😅
I use my 8bitdo Arcade Stick, with the restrictor gate set to 4-way. It's so fun
1:05 😵💫 so I guess I been living under a rock because I didn't know there was another Super Mario bros game, there are honestly so many I don't know which one is the most recent and they all look the same to me so I stopped paying attention to them, I haven't played a mario game since the collection release because I like 64 and Galaxy I think I played Super Mario Bros 2 or whatever the one on the wii was or wii u i can't remember
Thanks so much for this video. My girlfriend and I are playing through Wonder together and we can’t stand using the Joycons on their side. Just ordered 2 of them!
Im trying to get back into retro gaming on PC and this looks like the perfect controller!
My only gripe with Wonder is not being able to change the run and jump buttons in-game. The right stick gets in the way and REALLY gets in the way in handheld. I know the buttons can be remapped system-wide, but it would have been nice if they would allow it in-game or just gave us X/A run/jump controls straight away.
Just been using my 8bitdo Pro 2. It's usually my go-to for 2D games and works just great for Mario :D
I have 8bitdo pro 2 and 8bitdo lite 2, almost always use the pro 2, but for platforming games the lite 2 is just perfect, its compact and the dpad is a lot more confortable for platforming. Also in some cases I rlly appreciate a analogue stick for some games, like in advanced stages on celeste or even in water stages of mario wonder, so the lite 2 stays as the best, atleast for me.l.
Love the tip off for this video during the retro podcast 😂
SMB3 and SMW can’t be overlooked. I feel like SMB2 was out of place. I was about the same age as you when it came out and played it like crazy but it never felt like a Mario game to me and I’m feeling that same thing with Wonder so your assessment of it makes sense to me. I know it’s a Mario game but something about it feels like it’s out in of place in the Mario line up. I can’t exactly explain what that is but with that said I am loving the game.
SMB2 that was released in the west was a gfx-swapped version of an entirely different Japanese game (Doki Doki Panic), so that would certainly explain why you felt it was out of place.
I had completely forgotten about this purchase a while back definitely a great fit for Wonder and other platformers 😊
Now I'm expecting the M17 video. Damn, I love those obscure cheap handhelds and just ordered one for myself.
I've owned this controller! Put it in a drawer. Ah! There it is! Really thought I wouldn't find use for this controller!
I'll have to remember this. Overall I really like the Lite controller. It's the controller I take to work for playing games on breaks (I swear!). It's small and easy to store, very durable (more so since it has no analog) and keeps a charge for a really long time
Love Wonder it's soundtrack is amazing too 🔥
Because I am old I have spent thousands of hours on all the OG Super Mario Bros 2D platformers all the way back to the original NES in the late 80's. I spent the most time on Super Mario World on the SNES and the SNES controller was so perfectly matched to that game as well as every other Mario 2D game that it is the only controller design I can enjoy using. This is why the official Nintendo SNES wireless controller released for use with Nintendo Switch Online SNES games is the only controller for me. It is equally perfect with Super Mario Bros Wonder. I have multiple 8bitdo's and they are all great is the Pro Controller but only that SNES form factor gets the job done for me.
As a mostly "indie & retro" gamer, I love my 8bitdo Lite, I mostly play 2D games, and the Dpad as accurate as hell
This controller, and their new Neo Geo controller are my favorite platforming, fighter, and shmup controllers they have...
I too was a genesis kid. Our lake house came with an NES... Don't ask, there was a lot of weird things with that lake house, like an old family album. Also there was a neighbor connection to that house. A lot with that house confused me. It was a great house, with only ONE shower and it wasn't in the Master Bath. That just had a giant tub. OH and our Conversion Van had an NES in it. But the lake house came with a few games. Ultima, Mario 1 and Duck Hunt, Mario 3, with the gun. None of us kids figured out Ultima since we never heard of RPGs at that time. Oh and there was an old Nintendo Power which was kind of neat.
Mmm nostalgia goldmine
Interesting controller, but I'd personally pick the SN30Pro or Pro 2 at that size.
It's a bit too bulky to be pocketable and the dual dpad and buttons seem too weird to me, id rather just have analogue there.
I do like the 8bitdo micro but the reports of latency put me off, so i ended up getting the nano as that works really well as an "emergency controller" as you put it. However I struggle to actually use it as it's never recognized well.
I really wish there was something in between the 8bitdo lite and the nano but with no latency issues.
I really don’t like the idea of flat controllers, but here I am watching this 😂
Russ i literally bought this controller for iron crypticle since it was hard to shoot where i wanted with the right analog stick. Great game if you haven't tried it.
Ive had my lite controller for a few years now i use it to play all the switch online games too along with the fire emblem and dragon quest titles on switch and several more 2d oriented games on steam when i dock my deck
Being half your age, I need that glorious OLED display closer to my eyes, so laying the switch in my lap or on a table to use an additional controller is 😩. Fortunately, my recently acquired Nitro Deck in retro purple 👍👍 is a Wonderful Way (tm) to play Mario Wonder. Having said all this, I plan on hooking up the Switch to my tv and….of course…..purchasing the 8 bit do controller, because when I die there will be two coffins- for all my 8 bit do controllers.
I've been using my sn30 to play Mario and it feels great!
Honestly I prefer the analogue stick to the DPAD for platformers. I wonder why everyone else loves the DPAD So much.
I tried this out on Russ' recommendation and I don't regret it. It's a nice feeling controller that disappears into my experience playing the game. Great game pairing!
I love watching reviews about controllers I already own 💙
I currently have 3 8bitdo Ultimate controllers (2 are 2.4ghz, 1 is the bluetooth model), 2 SN30 pro controllers, 6 N30 pro controllers, 2 M30 controllers, 1 of the NeoGeo controllers and the 8bitdo stick. Somehow, I find myself watching this video and considering the 8bitdo Lite.....
I would like to see games that You have in Your ROM collection and what You always carry around in these devices. Something like top 50 or 100 :)
I would throw the 8bitdo M30 into the mix, gonna try it and get back with a verdict.
Ive been using the 8bitdo sm30 pro. Its been fanstastic so far.
There are probably 3 better controllers for SM Wonder, but 2 of them are hard to acquire and the other is a mod;
- SN30 (can't find them for sale anymore)
- NSO SNES (always out of stock)
- 8bitdo Mod Kit OG SNES
Besides those I think the 8bitdo lite is a good choice if you already have it. Though you would miss out on the HD rumble. So playing on a Switch Pro Controller makes a lot of sense too, though you would lose the nostalgia factor to the modern d-pad placement and ergonomics.
I use a official Nintendo Switch Online SNES controller. Most authentic experience and it feels absolutely amazing.
It blows my old man mind that you can just already emulate this…
it's also the perfect Links Awakening remake controller, afaik it's the only way use the dpad in that game.
I’ve used the 8bitdo lite on 16bit style RPGs like Ara Fell. It’s a great controller for games where the analog stick may be a little too sensitive.
I been using an OG SN30 or this game and it is perfect IMO
Finally I can give a use to my controller, I bought it for fomo and I've NEVER used it haha
I mean I know you don't care for the switch ergonomics and buttons. But I use a Hori split pad pro add on. Makes it much much nicer, controllers feel nice in the hands. And a true d pad and such for way better feeling gaming.
Better than SMB3, SMW, and Yoshi's Island?
HERESY
Love you, Russ