Remember when the creators of Turok had a challenge/contest for new parents to name their kid Turok? Ah, back in the day when game companies were goofy and ridiculous
I believe they did do an N64 Bluetooth controller, but it was manufactured in a small batch and is hundreds of dollars. At that point I would get a hori pad which those are around $150 now
Glad to hear I wasn't the only one who had to use different computers to install the Brawler64 firmware. I still want the official controller, but since the Brawler64 works and feels better, I'll probably skip it when it's finally available.
I was hoping Nintendo wouldn't go 100% accurate remake for that new N64 controller, and put a more modern joystick module in it (one that wouldn't erode and get loose like my old controllers), but looking around the web it seems it's about identical to the original. So I'm not very hopeful it'll play great for very long :/ So I gave up getting one. I hope I'm wrong though. I still really kinda want one. I got their NES ones as well as the SNES one, and I had to buy 2 more of the SNES one because it's so good. 2 for multiplayer and one as a spare in the long term. I'm critical of Nintendo in many ways, but these are certainly fire. I wish the N64 one made me as eager to get one, but so far it seems not worth buying as my new main N64 controller. Again I hope I'm wrong. Not like it's available often anyway lol I got time.
@Kalina Ann Ah I see, that's no good either. I wish they would've just put something akin to the GameCube's left stick, or whatever it's made of. My original GC controllers still play plenty fine despite a decade of abuse. They lost a lot of accuracy (see sweaty Melee standards), but they don't drift, nor is the shaft loose and dangly like my old N64's... If I could just grab my GC left stick and shove it in my old N64 controller, I would...
@@DanSutherland Huh, fair enough, I actually never looked that up... Bought me some harder plastic replacement from Kitsch-Bent some time ago. Thanks for the FYI!
You timed this video well; it's the 26th anniversary of the Nintendo 64's Japanese launch today! I'm personally "fine" with the original design considering it was the first mass-market controller with an analog stick. The DualShock on the PlayStation came later--the PS1 launched with the standard digital controller that was basically just an SNES controller with extra shoulder buttons. The whole point of the three prongs is to allow you to pick the control scheme that works best for you based on the game's needs. They're mutually exclusive to each other--you are never going to need to use the analog stick and the Z Button if you're playing a 2D game, and same with the D-Pad and L Button, unless it's for something auxiliary like toggling the map in Zelda with L, or the volume of the background music in Mario Kart 64 (why is that even a feature?). Some shooters also allow you to use the left and middle grip for movement and aiming, though it's not like it's that great. What does absolutely 1000% suck is the original stick's build since it's just plastic rubbing on plastic and it digs into your thumb and is bound to degrade given enough time even if it's lubricated. That said, modern controllers are simply better ergonomically. I'd recommend the Wireless Tribute64 if you can get your hands on it--they're known to have the BEST analog stick range that is closest to the N64, while the Brawler and Admiral can be too touchy, which can be difficult for any game that requires precision movement on the low end--e.g. shooters and aiming the bow, slingshot, boomerang, and hookshot manually in Zelda. It also always comes with BOTH an N64 and USB dongle for use on Switch, PC and N64, though supposedly the Brawler does the same nowadays, but not all the places that sell it have this. Another thing is that it comes with Rumble inside, which the wireless Brawler64 does not, and it actually passes through the rumble wirelessly from your N64 or USB dongle to the controller so you don't need to plug in a Rumble Pak for it to pass the signal to it!
About c-buttons to right stick, I have to say the GameCube controller works pretty fine. I was looking for alternatives to the brawler64 because of its flawed joystick, and what worked best was the GameCube, because its c-stick has a short range. It's the closest you get to a button, a quick input for the right stick. With some sens+deadzone tweaking in my emulator (I love m64p atm), I managed to for instance play ocarina songs pretty effortlessly and quickly in OoT. Definitely recommend the GameCube controller for N64 emu if you got one at hand. To me it's the best option available atm, save for I guess an original N64 with a brand new or modded analog stick.
The GameCube controller is almost perfect for switch 64 games but it’s missing a select button or a zr button for the rewind/save states. Because of this, I was aggravated enough to just buy a switch 64 controller from a scalper. I paid $105 with shipping included. So wasn’t too too bad. This was back in June 2022.
Nerrel did a deep dive into wireless N64 controllers on his channel and the Brawler 64 had a very inaccurate stick range/gate that doesn't work well with actual N64 games. I don't know if the new firmware fixes that or if it's an inherent flaw with the way it's designed, since it seems designed to accommodate modern games.
It's been a while since that video, I should check if a new firmware update fixes it, because yeah pretty much, this stick problem ruins what would otherwise be the perfect N64 controller for me.
@@deraile brawler64 is just garbo, this must be a sponsor cause it's 💩. it's so lightweight, it feels cheap, the analog stick is sensitive, and the D-pad is squishy
@@islandultra The layout tho... Man I wish 8Bitdo did a controller like that. Looking around, the brawler64 is the only one easily available. I know of the Horipad, and another one with such a compact/modern design but none are purchasable brand new anymore. I mean I agree, the build quality is not premium. But I've had actual garbo controllers and this is far from that. It's not ideal but all the inputs play plenty fine. Except for the stick. It doesn't even work properly. Like, everytime I pick it up, I'm like ew this feels cheap, it's too light and stuff. But I forget about that when I play because the inputs are fine. And then I have to move diagonally or do suble stick movement and "oh, that's right, it sucks".
@@deraile yea, absolute doodoo, bob should be ashamed recommending these cause its cause of him i bought my first one, the thing would randomly start resyncing to the dongle every few seconds it was practically unplayable, i thought maybe i just got a buggy one, and got a 2nd one, same issue, and the buttons were even squishier at that point i was fed up.
Glad to hear they updated the firmware. I’ll probably get one because I’ve yet to get one of the N64 controllers from Nintendo’s shop due to the scarcity. I’ve had few issues playing with the pro controller ever since I realized there’s a simple button modifier that turns the 4 face buttons into C buttons. You just hold a trigger to do that but it would be way better to not have to do that in the heat of the moment.
Great video Bob! I love your humor, and I don’t even skip the ads bc they’re just too funny 😂 question for you: what is the solid light blue controller from the beginning of the episode? It’s so pretty I kind of want to try that one for normal switch games
I honestly like the N64 controller because of how it lets you choose between a d-pad and analog stick but both are equally accessible and close so neither are too low or too high
@@RyanWilliams-sq8fg Because you would be using the L button, that is correct. There's nothing lost since the Z button is just the only button on that prong of the controller, same with L
@@seamistseamist ps1 had no z-buffer on hardware. you had to program it in. that's why the lines snap together all the time. n64 had all 3 buffers done in hardware. So it's the the first 3d home consul in my eye's.
I think it should be noted that only one version of the Brawler64 comes with the USB Dongle so make sure you grab the right one, I've got one with USB and one with the N64 dongle, the weird thing is you can use any wireless Brawler64 controller on either dongle I've asked Retro Fighters if they would sell the dongles separately but they said not at this time but that was like 6 months ago
Any chance we can purchase our own Switch dongle that would work with the controller? Do you know if the Switch dongle will recognize two controllers at once, or would i need two separate dongles?
I have the Retrobit two-prong and it works nicely enough. Takes a bit of finagling at first, but it works both on the Switch and on emulation. Sometimes the rumble turns on at arbitrary intervals.
I own both the brawler and tribute. For the longest time (like literally the week of n64 games on NSO) only the tribute64 worked. I definitely prefer tribute over brawler and I am actually shocked it gets no mention because it is great! And if people would have known retrobit released compatibility firmware long ago we would have a lot of happy people playing their n64 games on the switch already
I bought a Tribute 64 to use on my N64. I thought "oh I'll install the newer firmware on the N64 dongle." This killed the N64 dongle, so I returned it and got a replacement. The replacement also didn't have the newer firmware installed, so I can't swap Z/L/R, because I don't trust it to not die again the second it's plugged into my PC. But, the Tribute 64 is a fantastic controller. It feels great and responsive. The only thing I don't like (outside of just plugging it into my PC frying the hardware) is that you can't swap between rumble and controller paks.
been looking forward to this video because i would like a better controller for N64 games, but the firmware process seems like its enough of a hassle that i will continue to wait. thanks for the info!
I regret getting the Admiral controller and getting the expansion pack I can use the controller on my tablet with RetroArch but I was hoping to play it in official Nintendo hardware
thanks a TON for this video wulff! I got it after a 3 day delay from amazon, followed a guide I found on reddit and am now playing like it's 1998 baby!!! I'd give it a solid 8.5/10 from me. no rumble is a BIG letdown and the setup for the update was...tedious other than that...this is a GREAT BUY for those looking for an alt to the N64 NSO controller
The N64 controller will always have a soft spot in my heart. Lol I think it's great cuz there are several colors to collect if you wanted. The stick will mess up over time, but I bought a bunch of kitsch bent replacement parts so I don't have to worry about that ever again haha and the brawler for an actual n64 works super well! Really like how it feels
Glad to hear about the brawler 64 because I’ve been so frustrated with Nintendo about the controller. I have the wired brawler but am going to get the wireless now. I’m tired of waiting for a controller that is constantly out of stock for a year because of the scalpers and Nintendo just not pushing to keep it in stock.
recently spoke with retro fighters support about a Bluetooth version of the Brawler controller (i play tabletop mode about half the time) and they said they're looking to have one around September 👍also, any shot we could mod the official NSO N64 controller to be recognized as a pro controller? I'm actually fairly interested in trying to play the new kirby and odyssey with it if only i could remap a few of the buttons
I use the Retro Bit Tribute 64 2.4GHz Wireless Controller for NSO. I was able to update the firmware with no hassle on my Windows PC and it works perfectly.
Actually, I think modern controllers have at least as many buttons as a Nintendo 64 controller, it's just the layout makes them incompatible. Theoretically speaking, if you moved start and select to either the lower left or upper right edge of the current 4 buttons, then assigned Start and Z to L2 and R2 when you run N64 games, you'd nail the system controller pretty well and still have both thumb sticks available for usage for other functionality. In other words, it's possible to create a controller that could nail down emulation of almost any system pretty with minimal button remapping. The only exception would be with systems that have usual controllers such as the Wii remote and Nunchuk. I wonder if any third party premium controller makers have considered a modified Dualshock 4/Dualsense controller with the buttons aligned that way to make the touchpad bigger and completing it with the analog triggers and gyro controls. Might need a little thinking on the general design, though.
I have got to know how you made the first shot for that advertisement. The motion of the camera while also including the other shots is confusing the hell out of my brain.
I think I love the Nintendo grey color of a stock N64 controller. Nintendo really did a good job using nostalgia to make me like the color grey.... Anyone else?
I went with the retrobit tribute 64 and love it. Had issues with sin and punishment though. Still not happy with the NSO lineup and controller out-of-stock so I just ended up buying and actual n64 and an Everdrive. That’s my go-to for n64 now.
Holy shit dude ive been trying to find the n64 controller for so long but now theres a Alternative?! YOU SIR ARE A SANT THANK YOU! Gonna hit subscribe like and share. Thank you so.much
i was definitely considering getting the NSO N64 controller specifically due to the fact that playing OOT or MM on the pro controller was confusing as hell, but im definitely going for the brawler controller since its the same price, and a lot more accessable than the original design. Thank you so much, and I love your videos, I almost always watch your review of a gaming product before buying it, especially nintendo ones.
I'm surprised you've never mentioned the wireless Tribute 64. It works on both Switch and N64 and has built in rumble too. I'd say its better than what retro fighters and especially hyperkin have put out.
Just wanted to thank you for the video as I asked for one earlier! Sorry I couldn't see it right as it released, but midsummer is a really big thing in Finland and I've been hosting some of my friends for three days now so couldn't find the time earlier. Also, I thought I had heard of a controller that had adapters for bought Switch and N64 with a single controller. Is this one it, or is it some other one?
Nope - the one you’re thinking of is the Retro-Bit Tribute64 controller! It’s much better than the Brawler64 - and, as you pointed out, it even comes with *two* bluetooth dongles; one for the Switch (USB), and even one for N64! And the joystick on it is way better than the ones on the Brawler and the Admiral as well, by the way. Wulff has never bothered to cover it on his channel before unfortunately, for some strange reason. I mean surely he must be aware of it by now 🧐 because people always mentions it in the comments, constantly, after these types of videos…
It looks like the wireless switch version isn’t available anymore (or at least in the US). I was going to get an official Nintendo one but after watching this video, the Brawler controller looks better, but they only seem to have the wired version available.
Hello just wandering which Retro Brawler 64 controller you actually used because on Amazon the colored controllers don’t come with a dongle just the Gray one…
Thanks for info. The brawler looks a lot like the Interact Superpad I used to have with my N64 back in the day. I was trying to find Nintendo’s new controller, but like you said, it’s always out of stock. I’ll give the brawler a shot.
Did you try the Hyperkin N64 controller adapter that makes it to where you attach a 64 controller over hardwire. The adapter works great on PC's and works on the switch.
@@warbossgegguz679 we’re not in ‘98 but the brawler 64 NSO edition has rumble and Ocarina of Time uses rumble to reveal secrets and goldeneye is just weird without rumble. I personally think that rumble makes a game more immersive, fps and racing games in particular but you’re free to disagree.
@@daniel4210 I mean I feel like FPS games on this would actually be really bad because the aiming would be digital rather than analog. Probably like the biggest weakness of this design ironically.
@@daniel4210 Update: I looked it up and apparently newer blue tooth models have rumble support and even motion controls. So problem solved. Also, I hope bob makes a video about their revised BattlerGC design, because they fixed everything he disliked about their old Gamecube controller model. Retro Fighter and Hori are my gotos for 3rd party and specialty controllers. Everyone I know who's bought 8bitdo controllers (EXCEPT reviewers) has had them break or have some driver issues. Also worth noting that part of the reason Retro Fighters has grown so much and does what they do is that they're often times the only easy way to get a decent quality NEW controller for retro systems. Especially when it comes to weird bells and whistles that the DMG models had (VMU support and Analog face buttons come to mind).
@@warbossgegguz679 I own a few 8bitdo controllers and never had any issue with them. I also have a battler gc and while it’s nice it’s not as nice as a genuine GameCube controller (but then again the wireless aspect is great) and the rumble is a bit weak for non gc games.
If I watch this video multiple times will that make it worth how long it took because this is A+ bob content and I want more of it. From the ad to the sign off perfect.
While not perfect, back in the day I had a Superpad64 / MakoPad64 and I loved it. It was basically like the retrofighters controller but not quite as modern.
I had to get a USB adapter to use the Wireless Brawlerpad64 for the N64 console on my Switch. Unfortunately, the pause button doesn't work and the control combo the adapter provides (Z and START is + button) only works with the classic N64 controller. Make sure you get the NSO compatible version from Retrofighters since the USB version has been discontinued. Otherwise the buttons were all mapped and positioned correctly. The new stick isn't the most accurate in the world so it struggles a little with shooters on the N64 and Switch, so keep that in mind. I saw a Twitch streamer using a similar setup the other day too. It was EdifanobJinx I think.
I really wish the Brawler just worked right out of the box. It was very disappointing when it finally released. And then getting the firmware update to work was a big hassle. Took many tries and when it finally worked, it kinda seemed like I bricked my computer for a scary minute. The controller works the way it’s supposed to now, but having to hold the buttons for five seconds to switch modes every time you use it is laaaame. I liked Retro Fighters products but man this one was such a stumble.
All these controllers are great looking and all but those digital analogue sticks are a nightmare for N64 games. Anytime precision aiming is required like with the shooting gallery games in OoT or MM or even on GoldenEye using emulation, the whole thing falls apart. It's entirely too sensitive. As flawed as the original sticks were, they still can't be beat when it comes to these games. They weren't designed for digital sticks.
How's brawler64 fixed the range of motion for the left thumbstick? Another RUclipsr pointed out how the range is shaped like a square when they tested it ladt year at launch of n64 online
I typically use a Mayflash Magic NS with a WiiU Pro controller mostly because battery life tbh, but sometimes I'll swap in a PS3 controller. I don't have N64 Online though so idk how it ends up working for that. I also would be curious to try out a Gamecube controller and a Sega Saturn pad, personally. I think I could even setup Wii Pro controllers with some finagling between adapters. Although at that point why not take it all the way and get my Wii remotes in on it.
So I use the hyperkin admiral on my switch and after some research (googling and YouTubing the hell out of it) any admiral bought in 2022 or later has the firmware already installed. I have had no issues, you need to make sure you are using the proper profile but it does work
Thing looking back I would fix with N64 controller. Trun Z button more to shoulder buttons. And add triggers blow those buttons. add second a stick. Add button feature to both A stick. And keep the B,A,Y and X button layout. Have keep the select button. Only keep the expansion slot of the controller. but the Rumble pack has second one for memory card. So it can open up cheaper games if they still stick with carts. But I for one like they done combo format. have both cart and disk on the system out the gate. basely It be like controller of today. But with some of things back then.
I'm still waiting for a widely available N64 controller in its original shape, wireless, and with rumble built-in. 2 of them have been released that I know of but neither is easily available to purchase.
Any plans on doing a review on their updated NSO specific version? I got two of them on the way for less than the real ones. I would love to get at least one official NSO N64 controller but I'm never by my PC when they become available, usually only finding out after the fact from some random site and they are gone in minutes and/or crash the web site and I'm not buying one for $100+ on ebay. I'd bite the bullet and even consider $60-$70 but I never see them that cheap.
I know a lot of people crap all over the N64 controller but we gotta keep in mind that this was in 1996,and this was WAAY before analog sticks and form factor were the norm. This was all that Nintendo had at the time. Yes its more comfortable to use modern controllers with the N64,but i found myself using the original N64 controller because using the modern controllers with the modern form factor was so damn weird! I remember how the N64 games were played cus i played N64 games all my life,so i litterly remember every single button layout of the N64 controller just by muscle memory,and after using a modern controller to play N64 games I hated it because i kept getting the imputs wrong. Me personally its just so much easier to use the N64 controller because the games were completely designed around it.
And also the N64 controller never made use of all the buttons on it,pretty all N64 games used the right side to use the c buttons,A B buttons and Right trigger and the Z trigger. The left side with the DPAD and L sholder button was hardly used. The only use they used for that side was for side scrolling Platformers like Kirby 64. And that wasn't so bad cus you hold like super Nintendo controller when you use it for Kirby.
@@DeityLink69 I meant two different ways of holding the controller. And yeah I know how the controller was used - I was around for that gen. It's still a garbage design to not have access to all the buttons on the controller without changing how you hold it.
@@wordsmith451 oh i understand that,yes its definitely a flawed controller and modern designs have gotten better. I actually tried the Brawler 64 on my N64 and while it worked,I honestly coulnt get used to it because my mind was telling it was holding a pro controller and my thumb kept trying to find an analog stick when it wasn't. Thats why I always went to the original controller.
Yeah man dongles are great 8bitdo controllers for original hardware are great. I always hated the bluetooth 8bitdo controllers though. I just don't like bluetooth for input devices at all. Awesome for audio though. Hopefully 8bitdo starts just releasing 2.4ghz dongles for future controllers. Retrobit does it with their legacy16 and genesis controllers and it's super convenient.
I just wished 6 face buttons was the norm. That just opens up so many options for general game functionality and retro games. Keep the pairs of triggers and the stick buttons of course.
@@deraile There are plenty of cases where I feel like having at least 3 buttons next to each other beneficial. Arcade and fighting games comes to mind. One case for me in particular where this would be useful are platform games that has a dedicated dash button. Having access to that next to your jump and attack buttons does wonders. This is the main reason why I would play platform games on PC on a keyboard rather than a controller.
@@Appl_Jax Agreed! And I see, I guess I play a less varied collection of consoles than I thought. Don't really touch arcade myself. Otherwise yeah, more options is always best IMO 🤷♂️ Doesn't matter if I don't always use all those buttons, true. As long as the controller itself isn't impractical or uncomfortable, shouldn't be an issue.
I've been wanting to get the Retro-Bit Tribute 64, but they've been sold out all over for a while now. May just get the Brawler 64, if it comes pre updated now. Have the original for N64 and love it, so it won't be a problem.
@@SuperLuigiSixty4 They are worth the wait. I'd email them and ask when they will be back in stock. They respond surprisingly fast (I once got a reply within an hour).
2.4 ghz is definitely not faster than bluetooth on the switch, because the switch adds a lot of lag to usb connections. The least laggy controller on the switch are joy cons played wireless.
![What's in my Switch Bag? [2020]](/img/1.gif)
I will not have Turok slander on my RUclips. GOOD DAY SIR
oh snap it's all the Turok fan.
@@LaoziPoet 🤣
@@LaoziPoet haha
Remember when the creators of Turok had a challenge/contest for new parents to name their kid Turok? Ah, back in the day when game companies were goofy and ridiculous
Amen to that.
Can’t believe homie forgot Star Wars Episode I: Racer for the Switch smh
DAMN IT!!!!!!
And doom 64. 😆
And what about DOOM 64?
Doom 64
And Turok 2
That collectibles wall is going absolutely NUTS
Every time I see mediocre third-party controllers I can help but think: "Why haven't 8Bitdo done their version yet?!"
I believe they did do an N64 Bluetooth controller, but it was manufactured in a small batch and is hundreds of dollars. At that point I would get a hori pad which those are around $150 now
@@maxrichards5925 the hori pad is so small though
@@fireboltthunder2360 Yeah that's it's main issue. I'm lucky that mine are comfortable, but I wish it were a bigger controller.
This is honestly my answer to all controller issues. I have 3 of their controllers and will probably have more in the future.
What would the world come to if Bob didn’t have a bone to pick
Glad to hear I wasn't the only one who had to use different computers to install the Brawler64 firmware. I still want the official controller, but since the Brawler64 works and feels better, I'll probably skip it when it's finally available.
I have the official controller. It’s a N64 controller….I mean how good can it be really? I just want a good 3rd party modernized alternative.
I was hoping Nintendo wouldn't go 100% accurate remake for that new N64 controller, and put a more modern joystick module in it (one that wouldn't erode and get loose like my old controllers), but looking around the web it seems it's about identical to the original.
So I'm not very hopeful it'll play great for very long :/ So I gave up getting one. I hope I'm wrong though. I still really kinda want one.
I got their NES ones as well as the SNES one, and I had to buy 2 more of the SNES one because it's so good. 2 for multiplayer and one as a spare in the long term. I'm critical of Nintendo in many ways, but these are certainly fire.
I wish the N64 one made me as eager to get one, but so far it seems not worth buying as my new main N64 controller. Again I hope I'm wrong. Not like it's available often anyway lol I got time.
@Kalina Ann Ah I see, that's no good either. I wish they would've just put something akin to the GameCube's left stick, or whatever it's made of.
My original GC controllers still play plenty fine despite a decade of abuse. They lost a lot of accuracy (see sweaty Melee standards), but they don't drift, nor is the shaft loose and dangly like my old N64's... If I could just grab my GC left stick and shove it in my old N64 controller, I would...
@@deraile That does exist FYI Hyperkin N64 Replacement Joystick GameCube Style
@@DanSutherland Huh, fair enough, I actually never looked that up... Bought me some harder plastic replacement from Kitsch-Bent some time ago. Thanks for the FYI!
You timed this video well; it's the 26th anniversary of the Nintendo 64's Japanese launch today!
I'm personally "fine" with the original design considering it was the first mass-market controller with an analog stick. The DualShock on the PlayStation came later--the PS1 launched with the standard digital controller that was basically just an SNES controller with extra shoulder buttons.
The whole point of the three prongs is to allow you to pick the control scheme that works best for you based on the game's needs. They're mutually exclusive to each other--you are never going to need to use the analog stick and the Z Button if you're playing a 2D game, and same with the D-Pad and L Button, unless it's for something auxiliary like toggling the map in Zelda with L, or the volume of the background music in Mario Kart 64 (why is that even a feature?). Some shooters also allow you to use the left and middle grip for movement and aiming, though it's not like it's that great. What does absolutely 1000% suck is the original stick's build since it's just plastic rubbing on plastic and it digs into your thumb and is bound to degrade given enough time even if it's lubricated.
That said, modern controllers are simply better ergonomically. I'd recommend the Wireless Tribute64 if you can get your hands on it--they're known to have the BEST analog stick range that is closest to the N64, while the Brawler and Admiral can be too touchy, which can be difficult for any game that requires precision movement on the low end--e.g. shooters and aiming the bow, slingshot, boomerang, and hookshot manually in Zelda. It also always comes with BOTH an N64 and USB dongle for use on Switch, PC and N64, though supposedly the Brawler does the same nowadays, but not all the places that sell it have this. Another thing is that it comes with Rumble inside, which the wireless Brawler64 does not, and it actually passes through the rumble wirelessly from your N64 or USB dongle to the controller so you don't need to plug in a Rumble Pak for it to pass the signal to it!
About c-buttons to right stick, I have to say the GameCube controller works pretty fine. I was looking for alternatives to the brawler64 because of its flawed joystick, and what worked best was the GameCube, because its c-stick has a short range. It's the closest you get to a button, a quick input for the right stick.
With some sens+deadzone tweaking in my emulator (I love m64p atm), I managed to for instance play ocarina songs pretty effortlessly and quickly in OoT.
Definitely recommend the GameCube controller for N64 emu if you got one at hand. To me it's the best option available atm, save for I guess an original N64 with a brand new or modded analog stick.
The GameCube controller is almost perfect for switch 64 games but it’s missing a select button or a zr button for the rewind/save states. Because of this, I was aggravated enough to just buy a switch 64 controller from a scalper. I paid $105 with shipping included. So wasn’t too too bad. This was back in June 2022.
Nerrel did a deep dive into wireless N64 controllers on his channel and the Brawler 64 had a very inaccurate stick range/gate that doesn't work well with actual N64 games. I don't know if the new firmware fixes that or if it's an inherent flaw with the way it's designed, since it seems designed to accommodate modern games.
It's been a while since that video, I should check if a new firmware update fixes it, because yeah pretty much, this stick problem ruins what would otherwise be the perfect N64 controller for me.
Same, it causes axis inversion while I'm trying to play actual n64 games
@@deraile brawler64 is just garbo, this must be a sponsor cause it's 💩. it's so lightweight, it feels cheap, the analog stick is sensitive, and the D-pad is squishy
@@islandultra The layout tho... Man I wish 8Bitdo did a controller like that. Looking around, the brawler64 is the only one easily available. I know of the Horipad, and another one with such a compact/modern design but none are purchasable brand new anymore.
I mean I agree, the build quality is not premium. But I've had actual garbo controllers and this is far from that. It's not ideal but all the inputs play plenty fine. Except for the stick. It doesn't even work properly.
Like, everytime I pick it up, I'm like ew this feels cheap, it's too light and stuff. But I forget about that when I play because the inputs are fine. And then I have to move diagonally or do suble stick movement and "oh, that's right, it sucks".
@@deraile yea, absolute doodoo, bob should be ashamed recommending these cause its cause of him i bought my first one, the thing would randomly start resyncing to the dongle every few seconds it was practically unplayable, i thought maybe i just got a buggy one, and got a 2nd one, same issue, and the buttons were even squishier at that point i was fed up.
Glad to hear they updated the firmware. I’ll probably get one because I’ve yet to get one of the N64 controllers from Nintendo’s shop due to the scarcity. I’ve had few issues playing with the pro controller ever since I realized there’s a simple button modifier that turns the 4 face buttons into C buttons. You just hold a trigger to do that but it would be way better to not have to do that in the heat of the moment.
Great video Bob! I love your humor, and I don’t even skip the ads bc they’re just too funny 😂 question for you: what is the solid light blue controller from the beginning of the episode? It’s so pretty I kind of want to try that one for normal switch games
Finally a video about this controller! Just in time
I honestly like the N64 controller because of how it lets you choose between a d-pad and analog stick but both are equally accessible and close so neither are too low or too high
You cant use the z button while using the d-pad.....
@@RyanWilliams-sq8fg Because you would be using the L button, that is correct. There's nothing lost since the Z button is just the only button on that prong of the controller, same with L
@@seamistseamist As much as I love the n64, that controller is $h!t. Can't fault them to much though, as the n64 was like the first 3d home consul.
@@RyanWilliams-sq8fg the ps1 was out a full year earlier
@@seamistseamist ps1 had no z-buffer on hardware. you had to program it in. that's why the lines snap together all the time. n64 had all 3 buffers done in hardware. So it's the the first 3d home consul in my eye's.
This is the video I have been waiting for, thank you! Now just waiting for the Brawler64 to come back in stock.
I think it should be noted that only one version of the Brawler64 comes with the USB Dongle so make sure you grab the right one, I've got one with USB and one with the N64 dongle, the weird thing is you can use any wireless Brawler64 controller on either dongle
I've asked Retro Fighters if they would sell the dongles separately but they said not at this time but that was like 6 months ago
Any chance we can purchase our own Switch dongle that would work with the controller? Do you know if the Switch dongle will recognize two controllers at once, or would i need two separate dongles?
What’s up BrutalMoose. Glad your still around making kino videos
I have the Retrobit two-prong and it works nicely enough. Takes a bit of finagling at first, but it works both on the Switch and on emulation. Sometimes the rumble turns on at arbitrary intervals.
I own both the brawler and tribute. For the longest time (like literally the week of n64 games on NSO) only the tribute64 worked. I definitely prefer tribute over brawler and I am actually shocked it gets no mention because it is great! And if people would have known retrobit released compatibility firmware long ago we would have a lot of happy people playing their n64 games on the switch already
I bought a Tribute 64 to use on my N64. I thought "oh I'll install the newer firmware on the N64 dongle." This killed the N64 dongle, so I returned it and got a replacement. The replacement also didn't have the newer firmware installed, so I can't swap Z/L/R, because I don't trust it to not die again the second it's plugged into my PC.
But, the Tribute 64 is a fantastic controller. It feels great and responsive. The only thing I don't like (outside of just plugging it into my PC frying the hardware) is that you can't swap between rumble and controller paks.
been looking forward to this video because i would like a better controller for N64 games, but the firmware process seems like its enough of a hassle that i will continue to wait. thanks for the info!
I regret getting the Admiral controller and getting the expansion pack
I can use the controller on my tablet with RetroArch but I was hoping to play it in official Nintendo hardware
Just use a switch controller mine works fine for the switch I use a wired power a Zelda one, half the price of a pro controller
You forgot about Doom 64... It was already in Switch. It's my favorite classic Doom game.
thanks a TON for this video wulff! I got it after a 3 day delay from amazon, followed a guide I found on reddit and am now playing like it's 1998 baby!!!
I'd give it a solid 8.5/10 from me. no rumble is a BIG letdown and the setup for the update was...tedious
other than that...this is a GREAT BUY for those looking for an alt to the N64 NSO controller
The N64 controller will always have a soft spot in my heart. Lol I think it's great cuz there are several colors to collect if you wanted. The stick will mess up over time, but I bought a bunch of kitsch bent replacement parts so I don't have to worry about that ever again haha and the brawler for an actual n64 works super well! Really like how it feels
Thanks Bob. Very helpful
Glad to hear about the brawler 64 because I’ve been so frustrated with Nintendo about the controller. I have the wired brawler but am going to get the wireless now. I’m tired of waiting for a controller that is constantly out of stock for a year because of the scalpers and Nintendo just not pushing to keep it in stock.
Man, I love your ads!😄
The “live action Jack Skellington” line had me cracking up. 😂
recently spoke with retro fighters support about a Bluetooth version of the Brawler controller (i play tabletop mode about half the time) and they said they're looking to have one around September 👍also, any shot we could mod the official NSO N64 controller to be recognized as a pro controller? I'm actually fairly interested in trying to play the new kirby and odyssey with it if only i could remap a few of the buttons
I use the Retro Bit Tribute 64 2.4GHz Wireless Controller for NSO. I was able to update the firmware with no hassle on my Windows PC and it works perfectly.
I've come full circle! Subbed to this channel from a Hori Mini Pad and now we're here.
Just subbed as you asked so nicely. :-) Keep Right On!
I ended up getting Retro-bit's N64 wireless controller. Works well and the buttons feel good.
The food toss into the toaster cracked me up lol
Actually, I think modern controllers have at least as many buttons as a Nintendo 64 controller, it's just the layout makes them incompatible. Theoretically speaking, if you moved start and select to either the lower left or upper right edge of the current 4 buttons, then assigned Start and Z to L2 and R2 when you run N64 games, you'd nail the system controller pretty well and still have both thumb sticks available for usage for other functionality. In other words, it's possible to create a controller that could nail down emulation of almost any system pretty with minimal button remapping. The only exception would be with systems that have usual controllers such as the Wii remote and Nunchuk. I wonder if any third party premium controller makers have considered a modified Dualshock 4/Dualsense controller with the buttons aligned that way to make the touchpad bigger and completing it with the analog triggers and gyro controls. Might need a little thinking on the general design, though.
I use a wired Game Cube controller. I've wanted the Retro Fighter one for awhile though. thanks for the vid
Yeah I use a wired Zelda switch controller works great
Wouldn’t the dinky Z button, on the wrong side no less, be an issue?
Jesus Bob! Throwing that food was aggressive lol. Loved it.
I have got to know how you made the first shot for that advertisement. The motion of the camera while also including the other shots is confusing the hell out of my brain.
I think I love the Nintendo grey color of a stock N64 controller. Nintendo really did a good job using nostalgia to make me like the color grey.... Anyone else?
Same. NES grey, SNES grey, Gameboy grey. It's nice.
also original ps1 Grey
I went with the retrobit tribute 64 and love it. Had issues with sin and punishment though. Still not happy with the NSO lineup and controller out-of-stock so I just ended up buying and actual n64 and an Everdrive. That’s my go-to for n64 now.
Holy shit dude ive been trying to find the n64 controller for so long but now theres a Alternative?! YOU SIR ARE A SANT THANK YOU! Gonna hit subscribe like and share. Thank you so.much
Look really good!
Can't wait to see it!
3:39 That came outta nowhere bruh 🤣🤣🤣
Great Stuff, as always!
i was definitely considering getting the NSO N64 controller specifically due to the fact that playing OOT or MM on the pro controller was confusing as hell, but im definitely going for the brawler controller since its the same price, and a lot more accessable than the original design. Thank you so much, and I love your videos, I almost always watch your review of a gaming product before buying it, especially nintendo ones.
I'm surprised you've never mentioned the wireless Tribute 64. It works on both Switch and N64 and has built in rumble too. I'd say its better than what retro fighters and especially hyperkin have put out.
A piece of Velcro on the dongle and on the back of the controller would work (assuming you don’t want to cover the label of the controller lol)
Didnt you tested the Tribute 64 wireless from Retro-Bit? I like that Controller a lot.
can the wireless one have a dongle for the n64 as well? or is the dongle only for pc and switch?
Thanks I've been looking for a good N64 controller that didn't require 3 hands lol
Just wanted to thank you for the video as I asked for one earlier! Sorry I couldn't see it right as it released, but midsummer is a really big thing in Finland and I've been hosting some of my friends for three days now so couldn't find the time earlier. Also, I thought I had heard of a controller that had adapters for bought Switch and N64 with a single controller. Is this one it, or is it some other one?
Nope - the one you’re thinking of is the Retro-Bit Tribute64 controller!
It’s much better than the Brawler64 - and, as you pointed out, it even comes with *two* bluetooth dongles; one for the Switch (USB), and even one for N64!
And the joystick on it is way better than the ones on the Brawler and the Admiral as well, by the way.
Wulff has never bothered to cover it on his channel before unfortunately, for some strange reason.
I mean surely he must be aware of it by now 🧐 because people always mentions it in the comments, constantly, after these types of videos…
It looks like the wireless switch version isn’t available anymore (or at least in the US). I was going to get an official Nintendo one but after watching this video, the Brawler controller looks better, but they only seem to have the wired version available.
good shit! thanks for sharing!
Hello just wandering which Retro Brawler 64 controller you actually used because on Amazon the colored controllers don’t come with a dongle just the Gray one…
Thanks for info. The brawler looks a lot like the Interact Superpad I used to have with my N64 back in the day. I was trying to find Nintendo’s new controller, but like you said, it’s always out of stock. I’ll give the brawler a shot.
Did you try the Hyperkin N64 controller adapter that makes it to where you attach a 64 controller over hardwire. The adapter works great on PC's and works on the switch.
Once I got the firmware up, and got the NSO remapping, I finally really enjoyed played the N64 games the Switch.
The brawler64 looks good but for me the absence of rumble is a deal breaker. I wish that 8bitdo had a go with a similar design.
Are we living in the year 1998?
Who cares about rumble? It's a gimmick.
@@warbossgegguz679 we’re not in ‘98 but the brawler 64 NSO edition has rumble and Ocarina of Time uses rumble to reveal secrets and goldeneye is just weird without rumble. I personally think that rumble makes a game more immersive, fps and racing games in particular but you’re free to disagree.
@@daniel4210 I mean I feel like FPS games on this would actually be really bad because the aiming would be digital rather than analog. Probably like the biggest weakness of this design ironically.
@@daniel4210 Update: I looked it up and apparently newer blue tooth models have rumble support and even motion controls. So problem solved.
Also, I hope bob makes a video about their revised BattlerGC design, because they fixed everything he disliked about their old Gamecube controller model.
Retro Fighter and Hori are my gotos for 3rd party and specialty controllers. Everyone I know who's bought 8bitdo controllers (EXCEPT reviewers) has had them break or have some driver issues.
Also worth noting that part of the reason Retro Fighters has grown so much and does what they do is that they're often times the only easy way to get a decent quality NEW controller for retro systems. Especially when it comes to weird bells and whistles that the DMG models had (VMU support and Analog face buttons come to mind).
@@warbossgegguz679 I own a few 8bitdo controllers and never had any issue with them. I also have a battler gc and while it’s nice it’s not as nice as a genuine GameCube controller (but then again the wireless aspect is great) and the rumble is a bit weak for non gc games.
If I watch this video multiple times will that make it worth how long it took because this is A+ bob content and I want more of it. From the ad to the sign off perfect.
While not perfect, back in the day I had a Superpad64 / MakoPad64 and I loved it. It was basically like the retrofighters controller but not quite as modern.
I had to get a USB adapter to use the Wireless Brawlerpad64 for the N64 console on my Switch. Unfortunately, the pause button doesn't work and the control combo the adapter provides (Z and START is + button) only works with the classic N64 controller.
Make sure you get the NSO compatible version from Retrofighters since the USB version has been discontinued.
Otherwise the buttons were all mapped and positioned correctly. The new stick isn't the most accurate in the world so it struggles a little with shooters on the N64 and Switch, so keep that in mind.
I saw a Twitch streamer using a similar setup the other day too.
It was EdifanobJinx I think.
Thanks for inform me about this firmware update. Now I can actually use my wireless n64 brawler controller xD
3:12 If you're wondering what the Music is, it's most likely a 8 bit version of (Fly into Freedom) from Sonic Adventure 2
Bob I love you, thanks for doing a great service
Just picked one up after your video. I was just looking for this information. Thanks!
How much was it? I bet ridiculously expensive......
@@therunawaykid6523 $50 including shipping
@@connor_rhoads wow 😳.......I will stick to my power a Zelda switch controller then which was about half the price and works great
@@therunawaykid6523 i’m happy for u tho
or sorry that happened
@@connor_rhoads thanks man
How is the dpad on it? I'm still searching for a good dpad on a wireless controller.
wish you talked about the tribute 64 wireless controller
This is what I use with the latest firmware update for NSO.
I love the Brawler 64, but the analogue stick sucks, so I usually use the retro-bit Tribute 64.
I really wish the Brawler just worked right out of the box. It was very disappointing when it finally released. And then getting the firmware update to work was a big hassle. Took many tries and when it finally worked, it kinda seemed like I bricked my computer for a scary minute. The controller works the way it’s supposed to now, but having to hold the buttons for five seconds to switch modes every time you use it is laaaame. I liked Retro Fighters products but man this one was such a stumble.
Dude. How did you manage to film the CRT and get no scan line going across the screen?
All these controllers are great looking and all but those digital analogue sticks are a nightmare for N64 games. Anytime precision aiming is required like with the shooting gallery games in OoT or MM or even on GoldenEye using emulation, the whole thing falls apart. It's entirely too sensitive. As flawed as the original sticks were, they still can't be beat when it comes to these games. They weren't designed for digital sticks.
I haven't played N64 online since finding out you couldnt remap the buttons. The c buttons were a pain to learn on ocarina of time.
I got the wired Brawler 64 controllers. It plays like a dream.
This is weird, my Hyperkin admiral worked right out of the box. The button remapping options are all working as intended for me.
I think Bob is the only RUclipsr I actually want to see the ad spots of 😂
Does the brawl controller fix the sensitivity issue. Pro controller or joy cons are very sensitive
This changed my mine to not get the new n64 controller. Looks like the one you linked is already sold out on Amazon
Will ovens ever be safe from Bob's wraith?
How's brawler64 fixed the range of motion for the left thumbstick? Another RUclipsr pointed out how the range is shaped like a square when they tested it ladt year at launch of n64 online
I need to see the bts for how he did that pan shot of multiple wulf dens
I typically use a Mayflash Magic NS with a WiiU Pro controller mostly because battery life tbh, but sometimes I'll swap in a PS3 controller. I don't have N64 Online though so idk how it ends up working for that. I also would be curious to try out a Gamecube controller and a Sega Saturn pad, personally. I think I could even setup Wii Pro controllers with some finagling between adapters. Although at that point why not take it all the way and get my Wii remotes in on it.
So I use the hyperkin admiral on my switch and after some research (googling and YouTubing the hell out of it) any admiral bought in 2022 or later has the firmware already installed. I have had no issues, you need to make sure you are using the proper profile but it does work
I have one I bought in 2022 that doesn't work and can't be updated...
How’s the stick? I’ve heard problems with most 3rd party n64 controllers not being as accurate and precise as the original stick
Thing looking back I would fix with N64 controller. Trun Z button more to shoulder buttons. And add triggers blow those buttons. add second a stick. Add button feature to both A stick. And keep the B,A,Y and X button layout. Have keep the select button. Only keep the expansion slot of the controller. but the Rumble pack has second one for memory card. So it can open up cheaper games if they still stick with carts. But I for one like they done combo format. have both cart and disk on the system out the gate. basely It be like controller of today. But with some of things back then.
I'm still waiting for a widely available N64 controller in its original shape, wireless, and with rumble built-in. 2 of them have been released that I know of but neither is easily available to purchase.
Any plans on doing a review on their updated NSO specific version? I got two of them on the way for less than the real ones. I would love to get at least one official NSO N64 controller but I'm never by my PC when they become available, usually only finding out after the fact from some random site and they are gone in minutes and/or crash the web site and I'm not buying one for $100+ on ebay. I'd bite the bullet and even consider $60-$70 but I never see them that cheap.
I was very happy with my Tribute N64 Ultra controller from Castlemania games.
I know a lot of people crap all over the N64 controller but we gotta keep in mind that this was in 1996,and this was WAAY before analog sticks and form factor were the norm. This was all that Nintendo had at the time. Yes its more comfortable to use modern controllers with the N64,but i found myself using the original N64 controller because using the modern controllers with the modern form factor was so damn weird!
I remember how the N64 games were played cus i played N64 games all my life,so i litterly remember every single button layout of the N64 controller just by muscle memory,and after using a modern controller to play N64 games I hated it because i kept getting the imputs wrong.
Me personally its just so much easier to use the N64 controller because the games were completely designed around it.
Tell me how many other mainstream controllers require two different hand grips that exclude you from using all buttons are the same time. I'll wait.
@@wordsmith451 i think you mean three cus the N64 controller has 3 not 2.
And also the N64 controller never made use of all the buttons on it,pretty all N64 games used the right side to use the c buttons,A B buttons and Right trigger and the Z trigger.
The left side with the DPAD and L sholder button was hardly used. The only use they used for that side was for side scrolling Platformers like Kirby 64.
And that wasn't so bad cus you hold like super Nintendo controller when you use it for Kirby.
@@DeityLink69 I meant two different ways of holding the controller. And yeah I know how the controller was used - I was around for that gen. It's still a garbage design to not have access to all the buttons on the controller without changing how you hold it.
@@wordsmith451 oh i understand that,yes its definitely a flawed controller and modern designs have gotten better.
I actually tried the Brawler 64 on my N64 and while it worked,I honestly coulnt get used to it because my mind was telling it was holding a pro controller and my thumb kept trying to find an analog stick when it wasn't.
Thats why I always went to the original controller.
Thought on there new to be released bluetooth version?
Thank you!
The wired Brawler64 is the one I grabbed for the app.. I'll continue to use the pro controller lol.
Does the brawler have any heft to it? I mean either way I want to pick it up, but I like controllers with a little weight to them
It’s very light and “cheap-feeling”, apparently
Yeah man dongles are great 8bitdo controllers for original hardware are great. I always hated the bluetooth 8bitdo controllers though. I just don't like bluetooth for input devices at all. Awesome for audio though. Hopefully 8bitdo starts just releasing 2.4ghz dongles for future controllers. Retrobit does it with their legacy16 and genesis controllers and it's super convenient.
I just wished 6 face buttons was the norm. That just opens up so many options for general game functionality and retro games. Keep the pairs of triggers and the stick buttons of course.
So far I've only felt the need for 6 face buttons with N64 and maybe the megadrive? I think most modern controllers fit all retro console needs.
@@deraile There are plenty of cases where I feel like having at least 3 buttons next to each other beneficial. Arcade and fighting games comes to mind. One case for me in particular where this would be useful are platform games that has a dedicated dash button. Having access to that next to your jump and attack buttons does wonders. This is the main reason why I would play platform games on PC on a keyboard rather than a controller.
@@Appl_Jax Agreed! And I see, I guess I play a less varied collection of consoles than I thought. Don't really touch arcade myself. Otherwise yeah, more options is always best IMO 🤷♂️ Doesn't matter if I don't always use all those buttons, true. As long as the controller itself isn't impractical or uncomfortable, shouldn't be an issue.
I've been wanting to get the Retro-Bit Tribute 64, but they've been sold out all over for a while now. May just get the Brawler 64, if it comes pre updated now. Have the original for N64 and love it, so it won't be a problem.
I came to the comments to suggest the Retro-Bit controller. The new firmware works great. It’s been a wonderful N64 style controller.
Maybe I'll hold out until they're back in stock, then.
@@SuperLuigiSixty4 They are worth the wait. I'd email them and ask when they will be back in stock. They respond surprisingly fast (I once got a reply within an hour).
So I’m lost can you map it to work like the Nintendo one or not ?
Idea for the wireless dongle: Velcro.
Would that work? Just a small piece on the dongle, and a small piece on the controller.
2.4 ghz is definitely not faster than bluetooth on the switch, because the switch adds a lot of lag to usb connections. The least laggy controller on the switch are joy cons played wireless.
Woah the continuous multi bob shot!
Does it work undocked though? Because I don't like to play off the TV, I like to play with the Switch hanging above my bed.
I still want the Nintendo N64 controller, but it’s more for nostalgia. Also I missed the restock so this did convince me to get the Brawler 64.
honestly the wii u pro controller is a pretty good layout for n64 controllers especially if you can change the button mapping to your liking