With rereleases and ports becoming more common, it’s never been easier to get your hands on the retro games you remember from your childhood. For those who want the most authentic retro gaming experience, though, a retro controller may be in order.
There are tons of retro controllers modeled after the greatest controllers in gaming history, and what’s more, many of them work on modern consoles and PC! If you want to experience retro games as intended, or if you just prefer older controller designs, these are our picks for the best retro controllers in 2024.
8Bitdo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Gamepad Controller
A SNES Inspired Classic
If you love classic Nintendo, look no further than this SNES inspired controller. It sports the classic SNES layout and shape, but adds twin control sticks and triggers for modern gaming.
The 8Bitdo SN30 is a perfect controller for classic Nintendo fans. It imitates the classic SNES controller, but the added control sticks make it suitable for both classic games and newer ones! Its small size may not be ideal for people with large hands, but it also makes the controller highly portable, which is great since it’s compatible with the Nintendo Switch, in addition to PC and mobile devices.
The controller also comes in multiple colors, including the classic off-white SNES controller, as well as translucent green and purple that allow you to see the inner mechanisms of the controller while you play!
Retro Fighters Battler GC For Nintendo GameCube
A Pleasant Purple Pad
Whether you’re a Smash player or just miss Nintendo’s purple gamepad, the BattlerGC is heavily inspired by the GameCube’s classic controller, right down to the button size and color.
The GameCube controller has become one of the most beloved in history, to the point that many players are still after them today to use on modern consoles. The BattlerGC is heavily inspired by the GameCube classic and will scratch the itch for those who yearn for the classic controller.
The controller has the same face button layout as the original, with the only major adjustments being a few new buttons, and the nubby C-stick being replaced with a standard-sized control stick. For players who want a solid imitation of the GameCube controller, the BattlerGC is a great choice.
Hyperkin Xenon Wired Controller
A sleek and Slim Blast from the Past
The Xbox 360 controller was one of the best in its heyday, and the Hyperkin Xenon brings its form factor to modernconsoles PC. A perfect pick for fans of the Microsoft consoles.
It seems weird to think of the Xbox 360 pad as a retro option, but this excellent controller is almost 20 years old! That said, it’s still a great pad for anyone who misses older controllers. The Hyperkin Xenon is ergonomically designed and fits comfortably in the hands. The buttons and sticks are responsive and satisfying to the click, making the controller perfect for fast-paced games where every input counts.
Retro-Bit Sega Genesis Controller
A Superb 6 Button Pad
For retro gamers, it’s hard to do better than the Sega Genesis controllers. Retro-Bit’s rendition of the controller is extremely faithful and great for the classic games you love.
The Retro-Bit Sega Genesis controller is one of the most faithful classic controllers one can buy. It perfectly imitates the original controller and does not make concessions to modern games like adding a control stick. While this may not be ideal if you want a classic controller to play modern games with, it’s perfect if you’re looking for the most authentic way to experience Genesis classics.
The controller is compatible with Nintendo Switch and PC, and comes with a lengthy wire that will easily reach your couch from the TV. Perfect for retro games, and at a reasonable price point.
8Bitdo N30 Wireless Controller
The Granddaddy of Nintendo Pads
The 8Bitdo N30 controller is a faithful replica of Nintendo’s original NES controller. Whether you want to crush koopas or try boxing in Punch Out, this controller will take you right back to the late 1980s.
The 8Bitdo N30 controller is exactly what you expect from an NES controller, the layout is identical and there are no additional bells and whistles. This may make the controller a poor choice if you want to play a more modern game, but for players who are into NES classics, this controller offers the most authentic feel you may get beyond the original hardware.
The controller works on Switch, as well as PC and mobile, and though it can be a little slow to initially connect via Bluetooth, it is responsive and stable once connected.
Retro-Bit Official Sega Saturn USB Controller Pad (Model 2)
A Classic Controller that Fits Perfectly to the Hands
The Sega Saturn is a beloved classic controller, and Retro-Bit’s take on the controller is a modern classic. If you’re looking for a retro, ergonomic controller, the Sega Saturn Controller is a great choice.
The Sega Saturn Controller is very reminiscent of the Genesis controller with its six face buttons and lack of shoulder buttons, but it sports a more ergonomic design that is great for long play sessions. The D-pad and buttons are responsive to the press, and the controller is available at an affordable price compared to other retro options.
The only potential downside is that the lack of a control stick means this controller isn’t suitable for many modern games, but if you just want to play retro games, this controller is a fantastic pick.
FAQ
Is it important to use a particular console’s controller to play its games?
You don’t need any particular retro controller to play specific retro games, but since games for each console were designed with the console in mind, it can add the experience of using a controller like the original. For the most part, any controller can play any game. Just verify your controller has the right number of buttons the game requires.
Where Can I Buy Retro Controllers?
Retro controllers can be found in many gaming specialty stores or the gaming section of larger retailers. It can sometimes be difficult to find specific retro controllers though, so you may have an easier time using online retailers like Amazon to find the best controller for you.
