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(Note: Review unit provided by NYXI for testing and evaluation)
The Nintendo GameCube was an innovative console released in the early 2000s. Although it is fondly remembered for its features, it was not the best-selling console of that time. Nevertheless, many unique design elements set the GameCube apart from the PlayStation 2 and the Xbox.
One of these elements was the controller, which had a revolutionary approach to its button layout. Instead of the diamond button layout that is a staple of modern controller design, the GameCube controller featured an entirely different layout, with an oversized A button in the center surrounded by the B button on its left, the Y button above, and the X button on the right side. Many GameCube players still remember this controller fondly, and NYXI has released a series of controllers inspired by the GameCube controller for use with modern consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, Windows PC, as well as the older Wii and the original GameCube itself. This is the NYXI Warrior Controller.
What’s in the Box:
- NYXI Warrior Controller
- Two USB-C Cables
- Instruction Manual
- Replaceable Back Paddle
- Standard Joystick
- Joystick Ring
- GameCude Adapter Dongle
Nostalgia Warrior
As a gamer, I never had the chance to own a Nintendo GameCube because I was busy playing Halo, Soulcalibur 2, and Beyond Good & Evil on the Xbox at the time. I do remember being intrigued by the GameCube controller; it’s just that I didn’t get the opportunity to buy a GameCube. Therefore, this review comes from the perspective of a gamer who has never had the chance to use such a controller.
Using this controller is not only about nostalgia but also about its functionality. Over the years, many people have employed adapters to connect the GameCube controller when playing Super Smash Bros. on the Nintendo Wii and the Switch.
NYXI offers a line of controllers modeled after the GameCube controller, including the Warrior Controller. I’m amazed at the design, which many players will feel familiar with. This controller incorporates current technology, yet it remains compatible with both the Wii and the GameCube.
The Warrior Bluetooth Controller starts with Hall-effect joysticks that eliminate drifting. It also includes Hall-effect analog triggers with trigger stoppers, enabling you to switch seamlessly between a first-person shooter and a racing sim.
When it comes to buttons, the Warrior features optical microswitches on its BAYX buttons, D-pad, and bumper buttons, providing a tactile response with a clicky feel. The click sound is not very loud, so it shouldn’t be an issue for gamers who prefer membrane buttons.
The Home button activates the Nintendo Switch, which is a great feature to have while playing with the console.
The button layout includes the following:
- Home Button
- (+) Button
- (-) Button
- BAYX Buttons
- Left and Right Joystick Buttons
- Left and Right Trigger and Bumper buttons
- Setting Button
- Screenshot Button
- Left and Right Back Buttons *
- Turbo Button *
* The Warrior features a removable paddle button plate that allows you to adjust the configuration of the back and turbo buttons. This lets you either access these buttons or remove their access if you’re playing in a tournament.
Connectivity
The NYXI warrior connects to the following:
- Nintendo Switch
- Windows PC
- GameCube
- Wii
The Warrior comes with a dongle that connects to the GameCube controller port, enabling wireless connectivity. Additionally, this dongle features a USB-C port, allowing you to connect one of the included USB cables to a Windows PC for a wireless connection. This is just amazing!
Regarding the polling rate, I found that when using the wireless dongle, it has a maximum rate of 125Hz, an average of 117.26Hz, and a stability of 93.81%. The situation is different for wired; it boasts a maximum rate of 125Hz, an average of 135.89Hz, and a stability of 108.71%.
Drawbacks
As previously mentioned, this review comes from the perspective of someone unfamiliar with this design. The drawback is not inherent to the Warrior controller but stems from the core design of the GameCube controller. If you own the original GameCube and have come to appreciate its layout, you’ll feel right at home with the nostalgia and functionality of this controller.
For those who never owned a GameCube, you will have a tough learning curve to use this controller effectively. It may not be ideal for fighting games like Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter. It took me some time to get used to playing with it, and I feel it’s better geared to platform games and Nintendo games.
Conclussion
The NYXI Warrior Bluetooth Controller strikes a delicate balance between nostalgia and functionality, making it a versatile device that connects with multiple platforms. You can use it with older consoles like the Nintendo GameCube and Wii, as well as modern PCs and the Nintendo Switch. However, if you’re not familiar with the layout, it may take some time to adjust.
Still, whether you’re a veteran GameCube player or just someone curious about gaming, there’s plenty of gaming goodness to discover with the NYXI Warrior Controller.
NYXI Warrior Bluetooth Controller
