Fantastic deals have arrived on Amazon, featuring some of the most sought-after controllers reminiscent of the classic GameCube design, perfectly compatible with Nintendo Switch, potential Switch 2, and PC gaming. NYXI’s Warrior and Wizard wireless gamepads are currently offered at their lowest prices this year. These controllers stylishly blend the iconic GameCube shape with cutting-edge features, including Hall Effect joysticks, customizable rear buttons, responsive microswitch triggers, and a host of personalization settings. The Warrior Lite Bluetooth Controller, introduced earlier in the year, boasts the signature purple color scheme of the original GameCube. Typically priced at $50, this versatile controller can be yours for just $40, marking its all-time lowest price!
For gamers seeking added versatility, the Warrior (now $55, originally $69) includes 2.4GHz wireless functionality, allowing seamless connection with original GameCube and Wii consoles. It also comes with a PC adapter for wireless gameplay on your computer.
After being largely unavailable for most of the year, the NYXI Wizard is now back in stock and available at a discounted price of $56 (down from $70). This controller excels as a Joy-Con replacement for handheld mode on the original Switch and Switch OLED models. Furthermore, when connected to the included bridge, the Wizard transforms into a traditional wireless controller suitable for both Switch and the anticipated Switch 2. Please note, however, that the Wizard is not designed for handheld use with the Switch 2.
Our team has conducted thorough testing of the Warrior Lite, Warrior, and Wizard controllers across Nintendo Switch 2, Switch, and PC platforms. Discover our in-depth evaluations of each model further down.
$40 (was $50)
Key Features
- Bluetooth Wireless: Switch 2, Switch, PC, Mobile
- Hall Effect sticks and triggers
- Modern trigger and bumper design
- Adjustable trigger locks
- Two remappable back buttons
- Swappable back button module
- Swappable sticks and gates
- Microswitch face buttons
- 8-way microswitch D-pad
- 6-axis gyroscope for motion controls
- Adjustable dual-rumble motors
- Turbo function
- Up to 5 hours of battery life
The Warrior Lite echoes the core aesthetic, arrangement, and color palette of the original GameCube controller. Though slightly larger in size, it brings a host of attractive features, making it a flexible option for GameCube games accessible via Switch Online, in addition to present-day Nintendo titles.
Alongside standard bumpers and triggers, the Warrior Lite features two remappable buttons on the back. These buttons are integrated into a single-piece panel design which can be replaced with an alternate panel included in the package. The distinction lies in the texture and slight elevation of one panel variant, designed to enhance tactile feedback.
Incorporating anti-drift Hall Effect sticks, the Warrior Lite’s right stick is styled after the GameCube’s signature yellow C-stick, with the added option of swapping it for a more traditional, larger yellow stick. Likewise, users can switch between octagonal stick gates, paying homage to the GameCube’s design, and regular circular stick gates.
The face buttons, 8-way D-pad, and shoulder bumpers are all activated by microswitches, providing a click-like tactile response. The triggers, much like the sticks, utilize Hall Effect sensors and offer two distinct stopping points adjustable via locking switches on the controller’s back. Essential features also include adjustable built-in rumble and 6-axis motion controls.
A primary limitation is its battery performance. The Lite variant includes a smaller battery, offering approximately five hours of usage on a full charge. Mirroring many Bluetooth controllers designed for Switch 2 and Switch, the Warrior Lite is also compatible with PC, mobile devices, Steam Deck, and other similar platforms.
$55 (was $69) | Adds support for original GameCube hardware
Key Features:
- Bluetooth Wireless: Switch 2, Switch, PC, Mobile
- 2.4GHz Wireless: GameCube, Wii, PC
- Available in Purple, Orange, Black
- Hall Effect sticks and triggers
- Modern trigger and bumper design
- Adjustable trigger locks
- Two remappable back buttons
- Swappable back button module
- Swappable sticks and gates
- Microswitch face buttons
- 8-way microswitch D-pad
- 6-axis gyroscope for motion controls
- Adjustable dual-rumble motors
- Turbo function
- Up to 10 hours of battery life
The original Warrior controller from NYXI debuted last year, offering the added convenience of wireless compatibility with actual GameCube and Wii hardware. By utilizing the included 2.4GHz receiver, which connects to the GameCube’s controller port (and to a PC via a USB adapter), seamless wireless operation is possible. Furthermore, its enhanced battery provides up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge.
The Warrior Lite is exclusively available in purple, while the original Warrior comes in purple, black, and orange color variants – all of which are eligible for Amazon’s promotional discount.
$56 (was $70) | Switch 2 – Docked Only / Switch – Handheld & Docked
Key Features
- Replaces Joy-Cons in handheld mode on Switch & Switch OLED
- Bluetooth Wireless: Switch 2, Switch, PC, Mobile
- Available in Purple, Black, Silver, Orange
- Hall Effect sticks
- Mechanical triggers and bumpers
- Two remappable back buttons
- Octagonal and round stick gates
- Illuminated ABXY buttons
- 4-way D-pad
- 6-axis gyroscope for motion controls
- Adjustable dual-rumble motors
- Turbo function
- 6-8 hours of battery life
While the NYXI Wizard functions with the Nintendo Switch 2, it’s restricted to docked or tabletop configurations. For the original Switch and Switch OLED, it directly replaces the Joy-Cons in handheld mode. The left and right segments detach from the central bridge, connecting to the console via sliding mechanisms. As the Switch 2 utilizes a magnetic connection for the upgraded Joy-Con 2 controllers, the Wizard is not compatible with Nintendo’s forthcoming console for on-the-go gaming.
For gamers looking to purchase a GameCube-inspired controller particularly for the Nintendo Switch 2, it’s highly advisable to opt for either the Warrior or Warrior Lite versions. However, for those continuing to utilize both console models, the Wizard might prove to be a more compelling option. There are, however, several disparities to note between the Warrior and Wizard controllers.
The Wizard incorporates leaner, mechanical triggers and bumpers. Unlike the Warrior, it doesn’t feature dual trigger functionality. All four shoulder buttons are microswitch-activated, delivering a tactile feel, but without the ability to switch to a traditional trigger pull action like the Warrior. The two incorporated, textured back buttons are strategically positioned and provide superb tactile feedback.
The ABXY face buttons present customizable lighting effects, introducing a stylish touch. However, both the buttons and 4-way D-pad forego the microswitches in favor of standard membranes.
Regardless of the chosen base color, each Wizard package includes one gray and one yellow Hall Effect stick. Round and Octagonal stick gates are included in the box; though if smaller C-sticks are desired, they are available as part of a thumbstick kit sold by NYXI for $10, unless already owned as part of the Warrior controller set, which incorporates the same sticks and gates.
Additional specifications encompass 6-axis motion controls, adjustable rumble feedback, and turbo buttons situated on either side. Battery duration performance is situated between the Warrior and Warrior Lite models.
Note that NYXI has also recently launched the Wizard 2. Like the Wizard, the second-gen model functions in handheld mode on Switch and Switch OLED. If you buy it for Switch 2, it will only work in TV mode. The Wizard 2 boasts enhanced TMR joysticks, dual trigger modes, and microswitch face buttons. Essentially, NYXI implemented some features found in the Warrior controllers, which are newer than the original Wizard. The Wizard 2 has a price of $90 and has not yet been discounted.
More GameCube Controllers for Switch 2 & Switch
From a customization viewpoint, the Warrior family represents the most remarkable GameCube-inspired controller we’ve tried; although, other GameCube controllers intended for Switch 2 offer a more genuine experience. As stated earlier, Nintendo’s official wireless GameCube controller for Switch 2 closely mimics the original. It has a similar feel to the original, lacking the cord while adding small, extra buttons at the top: a C button for GameChat, Home/Menu buttons, and a small ZL button to account for the GameCube controller’s lack of two shoulder buttons. Even though this is the best choice for GameCube titles playable via Switch Online, the aforementioned ZL button can become cumbersome for modern titles.
Unfortunately, the price of the official Nintendo Switch Online GameCube controller has recently risen to $70.
Officially licensed GameCube-style controllers from PowerA and Hori incorporate Nintendo-themed designs and come equipped with contemporary shoulder and trigger layouts. In comparison to the NYXI Warrior, the form factor of these controllers aligns closer to the authentic GameCube controller, featuring a slimmer profile. PowerA has also recently increased the price of its GameCube-style controller to $70.
Seeking a conventional Switch 2 or PC controller? Be sure to check out the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 and all-new 8BitDo Pro 3 Wireless Controllers, each receiving special discounts on Amazon during this weekend.