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I have used the 8BitDo SN30 Pro Special Edition for the past two years and enjoyed it for retro, platformer, and Metroidvania games. I loved this controller so much that I upgraded to the Hall Effect joystick edition when it was released. At that time, despite some drawbacks, I believed I had found the best gamepad available. It didn’t bother me much that the SN30 Pro wasn’t programmable, as 8BitDo’s Ultimate Tool app didn’t support it. The gamepad is solid enough to earn a 5-star review from me.
There was no competition for the SN30 Pro, or so I thought. Boy, was I mistaken.
Enter the NEO S Gamepad
Enter the NEO S Gamepad by CRKD (pronounced Cracked) and how my world changed.
What’s in the bag
- NEO S Gamepad
- Carry Bag
- USB-C Cable
- Quick Guide
- Manual
First Impression
CRKD, creators of the Nitro Deck for the Nintendo Switch, have produced an impressive “retro” controller with the NEO S. I was initially surprised by the package’s presentation. You slide off the cover, and when you open the box, you’re greeted by a printed QR code instructing you to download the CRKD app for iOS or Android. Downloading the app is advisable; you’ll discover the reason later in this review.
The NEO S Gamepad is housed in a carry bag made from a microfiber-like material, similar to that used for sunglasses bags. I received the Classic Clear version, which looked stunning. After taking out the gamepad, I registered it using the CRKD app. To my surprise, I discovered something intriguing.
According to CRKD, their products are also collectibles—think of a Magic: The Gathering card. There are three different rarities: rare, uncommon, and common. Each color variant has a limited number of controllers produced, and the lower the manufacturing number, the rarer the controller.
After the app identifies the controller via RFID contact, you’ll get a screen that reveals the controller number and the rarity. Mine was a Diamond (uncommon). Note that the rarity doesn’t impact the usability of the gamepad. All of them work wonderfully. This collectible aspect is just an extra, making the controller more… unique.
The app not only determines the controller’s collectability, but once connected, it also enables you to update the firmware, fully map and program all the buttons, and customize the joysticks, triggers, and rumble settings. This alone makes the NEO S gamepad superior to the 8BitDo SN30 Pro in functionality.
Talking about buttons, the NEO S has a full complement of inputs set up of the following:
- Nintendo-style BAYX buttons
- Home button (CRKD Logo)
- + button
- – button
- D-pad
- Share button (For Switch mode)
- Two back buttons labeled S1 and S2
- Program button
- Left and right bumpers
- Left and right analog triggers labeled ZL and ZR
- Right Stick and Left Stick buttons
Another consideration with the joysticks and triggers is that they feature Hall effect inputs, which means their performance will not degrade over time. The D-pad and buttons utilize membrane technology, providing a responsive feel that’s just about right for gaming. (NOTE: The joysticks are interchangeable. CRKD offers replacement joysticks with various form factors, enhancing customization options.)
The NEO S’s shape and size give it an intriguing appearance. The placement of the joysticks resembles that of an Xbox or Nintendo Joy-Con controller, while its rectangular shape echoes an oversized NES controller from the ‘80s. I initially thought the NEO S’s ergonomics wouldn’t match those of the SN30 Pro, but the NEO S felt comfortable in my hands. I experienced no hand fatigue while using this controller.
The NEO S gamepad features a USB-C connection for charging or connecting to your preferred console. It also includes a 3.5 mm audio jack, enabling you to connect wired earbuds while the controller is linked via USB.
I have tested the NEO S with various games across multiple genres. Thanks to the placement of the joysticks, I was surprised by how versatile this controller is. The NEO S excels in retro, platformer, and Metroidvania games. Titles like Ori and the Blind Forest, Shantae, and Hades felt fantastic and responsive.
I played third-person games like Marvel Rivals, Resident Evil 2, and Dead Space. I was pleasantly surprised by how well this controller performed with these games. It gave me that old console feel while playing them. I want to finish Dead Space with the NEO S.
I then tried this game with first-person shooters, and in a pinch, it is, at best, an okay-ish controller for a single-player campaign. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for intense multiplayer matches. I would still prefer a game controller like the Manba One V2.
Connectivity
As the SN30 Pro, this gamepad can connect via wired or Bluetooth to a variety of devices:
- Nintendo Switch
- Steam Deck
- PC
- Mac
- iOS
- Android
Drawbacks
Wow, it’s tough to find faults in this controller. On the one hand, this gamepad boasts a quality build with great attention to detail, fully customizable buttons and functions, and a remarkable collectible aspect. If I had to point out a concern about this excellent gamepad, it would be ergonomics. While I love the shape and size, it may not suit every gamer. Some people might find it uncomfortable to use.
Another issue is the placement of the BAYX buttons. They appear too close together, which could create difficulties during more intense gaming sessions. I haven’t experienced any problems, but if you compare it to the 8BitDo SN30 Pro, you’ll notice a significant difference in button placement.
Lastly, the collectability factor may not be necessary for some players. It was interesting to learn about how rare the controller is. I find it appealing and enjoyable. While it doesn’t affect the device’s performance, the collectible aspect may not resonate with everyone.
Final Thoughts
Despite my love for the SN 30 Pro, I regretted that 8BitDo’s Ultimate Tool app did not support it. That feature would have made it a “perfect” controller.
CRKD has developed a gamepad that addresses the shortcomings of the SN30 Pro. The NEO S gamepad is versatile, customizable, and collectible, making it a great addition to your collection. Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I’m an Amazon Associate, which means I earn a commission when you click some of these links and make a purchase.
CRKD NEO S Controller
