Nintendo has announced a new pair of wireless NES controllers that will connect directly to the Nintendo Switch in the same manner as the Joy-Con controllers.
However, before you go rushing to your favourite retailer to grab the retro-themed peripherals, you should know about the catch: In order to buy the $60 controllers you need to be a paid Nintendo Switch online subscriber.
Nintendo says the exclusive release is designed to ensure Online members can “play enhanced NES games the way they’re meant to be played.” They can be attached to the ends of the Switch to charge while the console is in dock mode, and detached for use in single or two-player/co-op experiences.
#NintendoSwitchOnline will feel even more authentic by using the new wireless NES style controllers with the classic #NES games, available for purchase exclusively for paid Nintendo Switch Online members!
For more details, visit: https://t.co/1iDHUEEU2m pic.twitter.com/Q0yaFDmug5
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) September 13, 2018
Unfortunately, reliving the past is about all these pads capable of. You won’t be able to use them in place of Joy-Cons because they don’t have the necessary directional pads. The announcement came during the action-packed Nintendo Direct presentation, which you can watch below.
Related: Upcoming Nintendo Switch games
Unfortunately, shipments of the NES controllers won’t begin until mid-December, so if you’re planning on grabbing these as a Christmas present for your favourite Switch-mate, you might be cutting it a little fine.
The gaming giant is also limiting purchases to one per membership, and you won’t be eligible to buy during a free trial. Pre-orders start on September 18 in the United States. We’re chasing up details on European pricing and availability as we speak.
Do you think the NES controllers for Nintendo Switch represent good value for money? Will this push you further towards a Switch Online subscription? Let us know @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
