While they slide onto the Nintendo Switch console rails to charge just like standard Joy-Cons, they are structurally and functionally different from regular Joy-Cons.
Key Features and Design
-
- Retro Aesthetics: They feature the iconic original maroon and gold colour scheme and are slightly smaller than standard Western NES controllers.
- Joy-Con Rail Charging: They slide directly onto the rails of the main Nintendo Switch console to sync and charge their internal lithium batteries.
- Working Microphone: True to the 1983 original, the Player 2 controller includes a functional microphone and volume slider. This can be used for classic secrets, like shouting into the mic to defeat Pols Voice enemies in the Japanese version of The Legend of Zelda.
- Switch Console Integration: When attached, the Switch system recognizes them with custom red-and-gold on-screen icons and plays Famicom-specific sound effects.
Game Compatibility and Limitations
- Software Restrictions: These controllers are primarily designed to play Family Computer Nintendo Switch Online classics and Nintendo World Championships: Famicom Edition.
- Limited Button Layout: They only feature a D-pad, A/B buttons, and small top shoulder buttons added for modern system functions (like rewinding games). Because they lack analog sticks, X/Y buttons, and standard triggers, they cannot be used to play regular Switch games.
- System Shortcuts: When using them, the D-pad on the Player 2 controller acts as the Home button, while the face buttons on the Player 1 controller function as the Share/Capture and Suspend menus. Button remapping is not supported.
