There are a few brands that immediately spring to mind when you think of third-party controllers, and CRKD really should be one of them. Especially following the launch of the Nitro Deck, aNintendo Switchaccessory that ups your handheld game and doubles as a pro controller. Following in the footsteps of the Nitro Deck’s success, this week CRKD unveiled the Neo S, dubbed the Deck’s sister controller and available in nine different designs.
Like the Nitro Deck, the Neo S has been designed with the Switch in mind. However, the controller is also compatible withPC, mobile, and even Smart TVs. Its designs pull from the past and present, made to remind users of both a retroNintendocontroller and a smartphone at the same time. Its flat front allows for more creativity when it comes to designs, hence CRKD revealing nine of them right out of the gate.
The Neo S is entirely wireless and connects to your device using Bluetooth technology. It has gyro controls as well as remappable back buttons, again like the Nitro Deck. Remapping commands for all of the Neo S’s buttons is incredibly simple. Add the controller to your collection on the CRKD app by simply tapping your phone to the back of it. From the app you can customize the Neo S’s mapping however you see fit. You can also replace the thumbsticks to further customize its look, and CRKD claims there is no risk of it suffering stick drift.
Retro Gold, Emerald Green, and Electric Pink are just some of the colors the Neo S will be available in at launch. It’s the POPeART collaborated controllers that are the most eye-catching, though. Responsible forthe Yorkshire Tea controllersthat had social media boiling over last year, POPeART has teamed up with CRKD and contributed three of the Neo S’s nine designs: Splatter, Blossom, and Junkyard.
All nine of the Neo S controllers are available topre-order through the CRKD storeand are expected to ship in April 2024. Each of the controllers costs $49.99 each (even the POPeART designs). If you’re new to CRKD’s products and you’re not yet acquainted with the Nitro Deck,some of its designs are down to less than $50 on Amazon.
