Hori D-Pad Mario Controller For Nintendo Switch: Review

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the Hori Nintendo Switch D-Pad Controller – specifically the New Mario Edition. If you're a retro gaming fan or just someone who appreciates a good D-pad, this might be right up your alley. We're going to break down everything from its design and features to its performance and overall value. So, grab your favorite beverage, and let's get started!

First Impressions and Design

When you first lay your eyes on the Hori D-Pad Controller Mario Edition, the immediate thing that grabs your attention is, of course, the vibrant Mario theme. It's a classic red color, adorned with iconic imagery that any Nintendo fan will instantly recognize and love. The controller feels surprisingly sturdy for its price point. It’s made of a lightweight plastic that doesn’t feel cheap. Holding it in your hands, you'll notice it’s designed primarily for handheld mode, which means it attaches directly to your Nintendo Switch console. This integrated design is a significant plus because it eliminates the need for batteries or wireless connectivity, giving you a direct and lag-free gaming experience.

One of the standout features, and arguably the main reason you'd consider this controller, is the enhanced D-pad. Unlike the standard Joy-Con's individual buttons that act as a D-pad, the Hori controller offers a traditional, solid D-pad. This is a game-changer for anyone who plays a lot of 2D games, platformers, or fighting games where precise directional input is crucial. The D-pad has a satisfying tactile feel. It's not too mushy and not too stiff, striking a good balance that allows for accurate and comfortable use over extended gaming sessions. The buttons are responsive and have a decent amount of travel, ensuring that your inputs are registered correctly. Hori really nailed the ergonomics for handheld play. The controller feels comfortable to hold, even during longer gaming marathons. The button placement is intuitive, making it easy to reach all the controls without straining your fingers. Overall, the initial impressions of the Hori D-Pad Controller are overwhelmingly positive, especially if you're a fan of retro games or platformers.

Key Features and Functionality

Beyond the eye-catching design and comfortable feel, the Hori D-Pad Controller Mario Edition packs several key features that make it a worthy addition to any Nintendo Switch gamer's arsenal. The most important is the improved D-pad, which is a significant upgrade over the standard Joy-Con's directional buttons. The D-pad allows for much more precise and reliable directional input, making it ideal for games that require fine control. Whether you're navigating intricate platforming levels or executing complex combos in a fighting game, the D-pad provides the accuracy you need to perform your best. Another notable feature is the controller's wired connection. By connecting directly to your Nintendo Switch, the Hori D-Pad Controller eliminates any potential input lag. This is especially crucial for fast-paced games where split-second timing is essential. The wired connection also means you don't have to worry about batteries running out mid-game, ensuring uninterrupted gaming sessions.

One thing to note is that this controller is specifically designed for handheld mode. This means it doesn't have wireless capabilities and can't be used when the Switch is docked. While this might be a drawback for some, it allows the controller to be more compact and lightweight, making it perfect for portable gaming. The Hori D-Pad Controller also features all the standard buttons you'd expect on a Switch controller, including the A, B, X, Y buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. The buttons are well-placed and responsive, offering a comfortable gaming experience. In terms of functionality, the Hori D-Pad Controller excels in what it sets out to do: provide a superior D-pad experience for handheld gaming. It's a simple but effective accessory that enhances the enjoyment of many games on the Nintendo Switch. While it might not be a replacement for a full-featured Pro Controller, it's an excellent addition to your gaming setup if you primarily play in handheld mode and value precise directional control. For fighting game enthusiasts or retro gamers, the improved D-pad alone makes it a worthwhile investment, offering a level of accuracy and responsiveness that the Joy-Cons simply can't match. This controller truly shines when you're playing games that demand precise movement and control. Whether you're navigating the tricky platforming sections of a classic Mario game or executing complex combos in Street Fighter, the Hori D-Pad Controller provides the accuracy and responsiveness you need to succeed.

Performance and Gameplay Experience

Alright, let's talk about how the Hori D-Pad Controller Mario Edition actually performs in-game. The main highlight, as we've mentioned, is the D-pad, and it truly shines. The difference between using this D-pad and the standard Joy-Con buttons is night and day. The tactile feedback is excellent. The directional inputs are precise and the overall experience feels much more natural, especially if you're used to playing retro games or fighting games. In platformers, this controller allows for pixel-perfect jumps and movements, which can be crucial for mastering challenging levels. The D-pad's responsiveness ensures that your character moves exactly how you intend, reducing frustrating moments where imprecise controls lead to accidental deaths or missed collectibles. Fighting games benefit immensely from the Hori D-Pad Controller. Executing complex combos and special moves becomes much easier and more consistent with the D-pad. The improved accuracy allows you to pull off moves that might be difficult or impossible with the Joy-Cons, giving you a competitive edge. The tactile feedback also helps you time your inputs more accurately, which is essential for mastering advanced techniques.

Beyond the D-pad, the other buttons on the controller perform admirably. They're responsive and well-placed, making it easy to reach them without straining your fingers. The shoulder buttons and triggers have a decent amount of travel and provide satisfying feedback, ensuring that your inputs are registered correctly. The wired connection is a huge plus. Input lag can be a major issue in fast-paced games, but the Hori D-Pad Controller eliminates this problem altogether. The direct connection ensures that your inputs are registered instantly, giving you a competitive advantage and a more immersive gaming experience. The controller's lightweight design also contributes to its overall performance. It's comfortable to hold for extended periods, which is essential for long gaming sessions. The ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue, allowing you to focus on the game without discomfort. While the controller is designed specifically for handheld mode, it performs exceptionally well in this context. It's a perfect companion for gaming on the go, whether you're commuting, traveling, or simply relaxing at home. The improved D-pad and responsive buttons make it a joy to use, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Overall, the Hori D-Pad Controller delivers a stellar performance in-game. The improved D-pad, responsive buttons, and lag-free wired connection make it an excellent choice for anyone who values precision, accuracy, and comfort. Whether you're a retro gamer, a fighting game enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys playing platformers, this controller is sure to enhance your gaming experience.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clear overview, let's break down the pros and cons of the Hori D-Pad Controller Mario Edition:

Pros:

• Superior D-Pad: The enhanced D-pad offers precise and accurate directional input, making it ideal for 2D games, platformers, and fighting games.
• Lag-Free Wired Connection: The wired connection eliminates input lag, ensuring that your inputs are registered instantly.
• Comfortable Ergonomic Design: The controller is lightweight and comfortable to hold for extended periods, reducing hand fatigue.
• Officially Licensed by Nintendo: Ensures quality and compatibility with the Nintendo Switch.
• Affordable Price: The controller offers excellent value for its price point.

Cons:

• Handheld Mode Only: The controller is designed specifically for handheld mode and cannot be used when the Switch is docked.
• No Wireless Connectivity: The controller lacks wireless capabilities, which might be a drawback for some users.
• No Motion Controls or Amiibo Support: The controller does not support motion controls or Amiibo functionality.
• Limited Features: It doesn't have rumble or NFC.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, the big question: is the Hori D-Pad Controller Mario Edition worth your money? For many gamers, the answer is a resounding yes. If you primarily play your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode and value precise directional control, this controller is an excellent investment. The improved D-pad alone makes it a worthwhile purchase, especially if you enjoy retro games, platformers, or fighting games.

The controller's comfortable ergonomic design, lag-free wired connection, and affordable price further sweeten the deal. While it does have some limitations, such as the lack of wireless connectivity and motion controls, these are minor drawbacks compared to the overall benefits it offers. Ultimately, the Hori D-Pad Controller excels in what it sets out to do: provide a superior D-pad experience for handheld gaming. It's a simple but effective accessory that enhances the enjoyment of many games on the Nintendo Switch. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a casual player, this controller is sure to improve your gaming experience and provide you with hours of entertainment. If you're looking to enhance your Nintendo Switch handheld gaming experience, the Hori D-Pad Controller Mario Edition is definitely worth considering. Its superior D-pad, comfortable design, and affordable price make it a top choice for gamers who value precision and accuracy. So go ahead, grab one and level up your game!