CKRD is making its next move to become the dominant force in third-party Nintendo Switch peripherals. Following the release of its utterly superb Nitro Deck–an all-in-one handheld controller dock that aimed to eliminate stick drift and made the long-term portable experience so much more comfortable–the company is applying its technology and design ethos to a wireless, old-school alternative.
Available from April, the NEO S Wireless Collectible Controller–a Bluetooth-enabled pad that’s also compatible with PC, mobile devices, and smart TVs–draws on the classic NES design while making fundamental changes, attempting to offer a more ergonomic experience without impacting its simple 80s aesthetic.
As its cornerstone feature–and much like the Nitro Deck–the NEO S will be fitted with Hall effect sensor-based thumbsticks, aiming to give a drift-free experience. These will be paired with adjustable actuation Hall-sensor triggers, which can be tailored to different sensitivity levels. The rear side of the NEO S also features remappable back buttons.
The NEO S is also equipped with an internal gyroscope, allowing for full motion-control Switch games, while also providing a fully adjustable vibration function. Most intriguingly, the controller has a “No Deadzone” mode that switches thumbstick deadzones off, which CRKD says will offer “more responsive gaming.” Meanwhile, Turbo Mode is an option, meaning you can cheat online if it so pleases you.
In a step away from the Nitro Deck–and taking prompts from high-end controllers like the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro–CRKD has included the option to swap out thumbsticks, depending on player preference, and to counteract them wearing out over time; the NEO S’s “quick-swap system” promises gamers the chance to change stick tops for customized designs and colors.
Speaking of which: CRKD has made a big song and dance out of its regular and limited-edition designs, and it’s continuing its desire to create “pieces of art”. Six base designs are available–including a particularly delightful Game & Watch-inspired gold design–but true to form, its three blockbuster special designs come courtesy of the incredibly talented British game controller artist POPeART.
CRKD NEO S Switch controller designs
- Retro Gold
- Classic Clear
- Atomic Red
- Emerald Green
- Orange Zest
- Electric Pink
- Splatter Edition by POPeART
- Blossom Edition by POPeART
- Junkyard Edition by POPeART
Lee Guinchard, CEO of Embracer Freemode, said, “Our launch of the Nitro Deck was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from the gaming community, and we’re excited to grow the brand further with the announcement of the NEO S.
“[W]e believe the NEO S sits apart from the sea of mediocre controller designs available, presenting a highly collectible product that houses an array of advanced features.”
Unlike the Nitro Deck, the NEO S Wireless Collectible Controller offers a flat-rate cost across its full range of £49.99 ($49.99); you can pre-order the NEO S now at the CRKD website, and shipping is expected to start in April 2024.
