Finally, a Retro Controller for Xbox!

This brand new, officially licensed Pro 2 controller from 8BitDo will work on the Xbox One and Series consoles, as well as Windows PCs. So let's see how this $45 wired controller performs on both platforms.
Buy one here: amzn.to/3GW50hZ
Retro game emulation on Xbox (showcase): • Emulation on the Xbox ...
Retro game emulation on Xbox (guide): • Guide: Retro Emulation...
Timestamps:
00:00 introduction
01:20 unboxing and impressions
05:24 comparison with other controllers
08:31 gameplay testing (Xbox)
09:30 gameplay testing (Xbox dev mode)
10:59 8BitDo ultimate software
13:51 summary and conclusion
If you want to support the channel, please consider Patreon: / retrogamecorps
Intro theme song sampled from "Hexadecimal Genome" by Bit Shifter:
bit-shifter.bandcamp.com/albu...
Note that this description may contain affiliate links. By clicking on an affiliate link and buying something, I may earn a small commission of the sale at no extra cost to you.
This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
#Xbox #8BitDo #RetroGaming

[@steel5897]

I actually use an 8bitdo Pro 2 to play Halo Infinite online on PC. It kicks absolute ass, perfect stable sticks with 0 drift (I can literally get away with 0 deadzones) and the paddle buttons allow me to jump and reload without taking my thumbs away from the sticks.

[@RetroGameCorps]

Ah, reload for the back button is a good idea!

[@animetodamaximum]

I picked up the Pro 2 wireless version for PC as well, it is such a nice controller! It was a definite upgrade over my SN30 Pro.

[@coolperson4283]

You don't get any deadzone with 0% dead zone because there is an inherent dead zone applied before the user applicable dead zone. You can see for yourself by gently nudging the sticks and see no input on the screen whatsoever.

[@NiKE-2002]

@@RetroGameCorps Hey, as mentioned in my other comment, there are solutions to use other controllers like the PS5 one on Xbox Series (Titan Two or Cronus Zen). What about testing these? Would be interesting!

[@X3TAJIOH]

You play Halo on PC with gamepad, but I play Halo on XBox with keyboard+mouse xD

[@MintyVoid]

as someone who grew up/prefers the dualshock, bless 8bitdo ;-;. almost all controller manufacturers have shifted to the xbox style of controller layout. It's so hard to find something similar to the dualshock that's actually good quality and not 80$+(cad). Thanks as always for going into so much detail about how everything feels, it super helps.

[@RetroGameCorps]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@ricgricher]

I was waiting for a good review on this, and now I consider it done 👍. I will buy it for sure. Thanks!

[@ZackMorris1]

I literally just bought the sn30 pro SNES wireless one you show in your other videos as a Christmas present for a friend I am gifting a retro setup for. Yes there was a $20 knockoff version on Amazon, but your vouching for these made me spend the extra money because quality does matter.

[@celsolaurentino2876]

8BitDo make the best 3rd party controllers

[@Fatalis_4K]

Well done review, and I love the comparison.

[@DigitalAsshat]

Been waiting for this here in Germany for a while and paused mid video to order it :-). I have the SN30 Pro Plus and it's the best 3rd party controller I have seen yet. This thing looks even better. Good review, thank you. Edit: Playing Halo Infinite with this controller now. Love it. Thumbsticks are a bit slippery but build quality is excellent. Highly recommended.

[@rvnhty]

Bought it. It looks good, doesn’t feel cheap and it’s less expensive than the official controller in Canada. Thanks for the review !

[@Tsukiru]

I was trying to find a symmetrical Xbox controller since I was always bothered with some games on PC and certain icons. Pre-ordered (and for some reason needed to replace due to delivery) this one and it feels really good. I like setting P1 and P2 to the triggers since I don't like using triggers.

[@gabriellexenegas1756]

Hi you know how use P1 &P2?

[@OneLastScholar]

Use the app.

[@jasonboy9676]

This company is taking controllers to another level. They care about quality and durability over a controller that looks fancy.

[@ncf1]

well said!

[@robmoye7373]

They have really come a long way. Their first controllers they put out had terrible d-pads, but they are perfect now. I use a SN30 Pro+ for pc and I love it.

[@IncessantWake]

@@robmoye7373 I just bought the 8bitdo pro 2 and you are absolutely right! the D-pad is the best of the best.

[@manhealme]

@@robmoye7373 same for me dude, it have taken a few falls and still feels rock solid (mines the snes purple one)

[@TBrizzle01]

@@robmoye7373 I'm glad someone else said it. I have the wireless SNES controller for the SNES classic and the dpad is a noticeable issue. No one else seemed to have said anything.

[@108Stars]

Got this controller the other day and I am very happy about it. Funny enough not so much for pre-PS1-retro that needs a d-pad, but because of the analogue sticks. I want to only emulate PS1, PS2, PSP, Dreamcast, Gamecube and Wii with it, so only devices where you would want sticks. I cannot say anything about other people's hands but my relaxed thumb is nowhere near the left stick on the original controller. Both thumbs naturally rest where the PS/8bitdo sticks are for me. I was virtually unable to play with the original controller for long periods of time because having my left thumb so high on the left is super uncomfortable for me. So those sticks were the reason for me to buy the controller. I also like that the d-pad isn't so loud. The original controller has a click so loud everytime I press it, it makes me think a woodpecker was sitting on my hand. Glad 8bitdo released this. Otherwise my Series S would only collect dust. Great emulation machine now!

[@HybridAngelZero]

YES! As someone who plays a lot of classic games and 2D games on my Xbox One, this something I've been waiting for!

[@Psmgamer]

Ordered myself one cause Best Buy had it for $34. I never tried 8 Bit Duo before but heard they make great controllers for Switch. Been wanting a retro style controller for Xbox especially for fighting games.

[@MrCumstein]

Nice video, Russ. As usual.

[@starwarsmaster]

You always say you are going to keep it under a certain amount of time or you apologize for the long videos, but I LOVE the long videos! I use them as podcasts!

[@RetroGameCorps]

Yeah at this point it's just a joke to me. I record my footage and then have an idea in mind of how long it will be, but I don't really mind when they run long. I just have fun guessing to see how accurate I am. My goal is always under 20 mins, but as we saw last week with my RG552 video, sometimes I can get out of hand...

[@MrCumstein]

@@RetroGameCorps it's funny I enjoy longer videos no matter what they're on.

[@RyanParreno]

so happy 8bitdo has come a long way; they really made the next evolution of the SNES controller that the DualShock is not

[@beowulf848]

I got one of these specifically because it's wired (low input lag). Can't say enough good things about it. I love the software that lets me set the trigger sensitivity. Highly recommend.

[@GrandeGio95]

Great review, maybe the best for this controller

[@D95er]

Gonna pick this up. Just got retroarch on my xbox. Just wish it was wireless, but still looks really nice for emulation .

[@MoreTechSir]

I love this has such a greatfeel in your hands and the custom software is a great addition. Do you find you get grip fatigue at all with this control.?

[@Usaji_]

it's insane how diferent of a tone you took with this review compared to your pro 2 review lol

[@Hardware_Hermit]

In the past I know some 8bitdo controller have had issues with diagonals, how was your experience with them on this controller in something like Super Metroid? Really digging the content!

[@themixedmamba1012]

It’s still a problem I got it to see if this was still going on

[@kastus3768]

THANK YOU FOR THIS! Since i switched to Xbox from playstation i struggled so much with the Xbox analog sticks. It really ruined. My gaming experience on my series x. I ordered one immediately after the video (come on Amazon!!!). Love your channel. Definitely waiting for the updated RetroArch configuration video you mentioned.

[@simonclark6562]

Ive currently got the same problem that you had with the THUMBSTICKS, changing from PS4 to XBOX S. Did this 8BITDO retro controller solve the problem.

[@the_full_english]

Just get a Brook Wingman XB adaptor and use your PS controller wired or wireless. I’m a life long PS man and have gone to a Series X and hated the controller. Got a Brooks adapter on Amazon and use my trusty old DS4 controller and it feels like home! 👍

[@Albatraze_]

That's a beautiful controller, I can't wait to buy this

[@chadsmith7075]

I just got mine today, I am now complete in my life : )😊

[@o-SPECTRE-o]

It is a really great controller. Build quality is excellent. The only thing missing is a turbo option for some of the retro games - beatem-ups and side scrolling shooters. Apart from that one thing its perfect and I prefer it to the official Xbox controller.

[@mrt.7146]

The Switch compatible wireless version is truly amazing! Top-tier controller!

[@arcaderacer586]

You described the way the controllers feel in the hands perfect! I prefer the xbox standard controllers becsuse I lole racing games. For retro I like the 8bitdo M30 for its 3 over 3 layout. Perfect for mame games

[@pr3cious193]

As someone who likes the ps4/5 controller layout and wants an xinput controller for pc games, this is perfect.

[@rodrigo53]

I’ve got the 8bitDo pro 2 for the switch. I couldn’t be happier. If these companies were smart, one of them would buy them. This company making controllers for just one system would tip the balance for the future.

[@golions13579]

These newest 8bitdo d-pads are perfect. It feels so close to a SNES d-pad which is 2D perfection

[@breakpack]

I really enjoy using this controller but I hate that they took away the turbo button option when pressing the star button. That is useful in retro games. I hope this can be an option in a future firmware update.

[@RealCelticGamer]

I have the SN30 Pro 2 that this is based on, it's a fantastic controller.

[@pholly]

This looks awesome

[@rafadono]

It looks really good!. But, for me, the best modern retro controller is the 8bitdo m30, I don't know if it works on Xbox though.

[@sutton4791]

Xbox will never let it happen, but I wish they'd let third party controller use their wireless "tech". A bluetooth version of this controller, for pc, would be my ideal controller for years.

[@DE23]

8bitdo already has a Bluetooth version of this controller. The Bluetooth version is even compatible with Switch and Android in addition to PC. The Bluetooth one isn't compatible with Xbox consoles though. Edit: He actually shows off the Bluetooth version in the video.

[@MJBjj870]

@@DE23 dang! If it was on Xbox I’d have to cop it

[@yesmate78]

@@MJBjj870 get a Brooks adapter

[@Grandmaster-Kush]

I still need to get a mobo with bluetooth or a dongle, haven't had that in like 10 years lmao so always stick with wired

[@MichaelM28]

Just got mine today. Absolutely the best xbox controller I've ever used

[@Thepragtisme]

Xbox layout-ed controllers are more suitable for racing dan shooting, but it's real bad for platformer and fighting. While Dualshock layout-ed controller are more all-rounder, they're best for platform and fighting yet still acceptable for racing and shooting.

[@LooKyz]

Nice & cheap controller looks good!

[@delightfulsquirtle316]

love this one. You're right. The 8bitdo one really works best with 2d/retro games whule the original xbox controller is better for racing games, shooters and other more modern games.

[@oobgarm1]

Good stuff. I haven't gone fully into retro on the Xbox due to the controller setup, but this is a game changer in that regard. Excellent review that covers everything.

[@yakumoyukariz4938]

really love that controller use it both retro and modern games i like it has share button so you dont have to dashboard click on record what happen, instead just click button and con is not supported with xbox 360 consol but hope brook wingman xb fix later update 😙

[@samaeldrakul4191]

Thank goodness!... I am a long time ps player making the jump to xbox but i hate the xbox pads, this is an absolute god send! ❤😍❤ I dont just want it... I NEED IT!! Really sweet review by the way 👍👍👍👍

[@bluepaintsmells]

Fantastic!

[@jasonshiers5771]

Looks a solid controller.

[@northnorthsouth1]

I need help with wireless controllers for the Odin 2 pro. Which wireless controllers can I use for SNES, Sega Saturn, N64, GameCube, Wii and PS2

[@williemayo527]

I know this doesn't have anything to do with the video but everytime I try to reboot my bee link King to add emuelec like you showed in the diy retro console it just shows the beelink logo. Do you know of a firmware update I need to do and if so can you post a tutorial. Thanks

[@NiKE-2002]

If this Controller was wireless, I would buy it immediately. Love 8bitdo, i already own several models, all wireless and perfectly working. And to be honest, i think the original Xbox Series Controller feels cheap and is much too loud. At the moment i play Dead Cells on Switch with the Pro Controller, and Halo Infinite on XSX. And, oh man, the difference in quality of these two are so heavy. OK, Switch Pro Controller lacks Analog Shoulder Buttons, but if i could use it with Xbox i would rather use the Nintendo one instead of the original. Still hoping for a decent solution to use a third party wireless controller on Xbox.

[@nuckv7544]

Same, but sadly that's on Microsoft and not on 8BitDo, from what I've Microsoft won't license any 3rd part wireless controllers.

[@KatRollo]

@@nuckv7544 So that's why. Typical corpo move. Sadly, no wireless is the deal-breaker for me.

[@therealnmg]

They did approved for another wireless 8bitdo controller right? The one for phones. Honestly I just want a wireless one for my PC, complete with the XBOX button and proper button layout.

[@DE23]

Unfun fact: This controller has Bluetooth to connect to the app, it just doesn't have a battery. Theoretically, 8bitdo could release a battery pack you can plug this controller into so you could use it wirelessly.

[@NiKE-2002]

@@DE23 I'm not sure if this would work, maybe i'm wrong but afaik Xbox Series-Controllers use a special kind of connection, what's also the reason other Bluetooth capable controllers (like the Switch Pro Controller) may be recognized by Xbox Series, but won't register any button presses. I ordered the 8Bitdo Controller anyway, also because it has my preferred layout (like Playstation), and for the cable, well, I can better live with that than with the overall haptics and clickynes of the original Xbox-Controller.

[@stephanboxall1462]

It looks so sleek and clean. I think if it’s released in a wireless BT version, I’ll certainly buy one. My preference of controllers is the SF30 pro which just has such a nostalgic feel… they’re harder to come by these days though.

[@DE23]

There is a wireless version, *BUT* it's compatible with different devices. The wired one can work on Xbox and PC, The wireless one works on Android, PC, and Switch.

[@yesmate78]

@@DE23 Brooks adapter xb

[@abrahamfigz6585]

USPS. Never got it, bought something else (Power A) , will buy again.

[@matttrepanier4692]

I just ordered one of these, I hope my kontrol freaks fit 😂

[@gameboy967]

don't worry about keeping anything under a certain time limit. I like your longer videos

[@sam_.x.3x162]

Will the 8bitdo controller support every game on the Xbox like warzone and first person shooting games etc

[@UzzR04]

Can someone please help me the joystick stopped working. I used the app on my Xbox to bind some buttons but they completely stopped working afterwards, I even tried resetting but nothing. I don't own a PC so idk what to do and I can't find anything on Google or really anywhere else.

[@morona3030]

Só avisando um ponto que a maioria do pessoal não comenta, essa versão funciona tanto no PC quanto no Xbox, porém não funciona no Android ou iOS. E diferentemente dos outros controles da marca, o Software dessas versões do Xbox não permitem utilizar macros ou função turbo, ou seja os pads traseiros perdem metade das funções que poderiam ter. Então caso você não jogue no Xbox, não compre esse modelo licenciado do Xbox, compre o Pro convencional, pois ele terá mais usabilidades. ✌

[@dandurocher993]

Great stuff....but more Chicken please. :)

[@tattoodrdoke]

Xbox one controllers is probably one of my favourite controllers for long sessions.

[@somemygameplays]

Can i ask? Do you have this controller Triggers vibration? like a original series x/s controller? Thanks for answer

[@Anti_Abe]

I wonder how well this remote works with fighting games?!🤔🤔 such as Injustice 2, MKX, MK11 etc? Anyone have any experience with this remote on fighting games?

[@rosco8453]

Played some mk11 on it and it's really good but the mushiness for me is a bit weird coming from a perfect clicky Xbox controller

[@MrMekmek29]

i noticed delays when playing xbxs2, does this have that? When are you gonna do an xbxs2 review?

[@XxReaperxX-ih6kb]

Question can you flip the triggers like say if i wanted to aim and shoot with the top triggers

[@Snowmation]

It looks like a win to me, gonna head to Amazon now. lol

[@GoodThumbss]

This controller is so good

[@loudassvictor]

Definitely getting this for PC gaming.

[@DE23]

8bitdo has a Bluetooth version of this compatible with PC but not Xbox consoles.

[@shuttlecockgourock3948]

this is the perfect design for a controller

[@notavailable8955]

I wish it was wireless though for android and pc because the original pro 2 doesn't work wireless on pc

[@Burnin-U]

Thanks

[@lurko1883]

if only ur video had a fighting game angle to it, namely Mk11 on xBox series. how sturdy are the bumpers compared to the original xbox series controller. how well does the d pad hold up, more helpful with directional accuracy or more strenuous

[@alexn.t.6344]

I recently bought this controller for the Nintendo Switch, wireless version. If we assume that both are the same, this controller is a very good choice for fighting games. First, all the buttons are very soft to the touch, nothing like the Xbox controller that got a clicky and hard to press d-pad. Same applies for the bumpers. When I said soft, i mean that it requires a lot less force for an effective actuation. Seriously, in my opinion the Xbox Dpad is an RSI waiting to happen, it's so hard to press and after long sessions my hands starts to hurt.

[@hentainin87]

hows this game for fighting game? is there a difference between this and the pro wireless one?

[@KaraokeDuov2]

I just want to say, I think a wheel shaped D-Pad is great for fighting games.

[@aLe-be2fq]

and shmups too

[@phox2055]

@@aLe-be2fq and its really good for platformers too, definitely the best 1st party dpad of this generation

[@clearlydee9257]

It failed the durability test for me. It keeps disconnecting; it seems to be due to the lead portion that meets the controller.

[@I4get42]

I want them to sell these ABXY buttons so I can do a swap on my Pro2. It would be perfect 🥰.

[@wargamesmaster]

Hello. I have an important question, is there an emulation device compatible with 3DS/PS Vita games? Above 300$ or not. I have zero doubts that I won't be able to get my PS Vita repaired one day ("thanks" Sony for discontinuing everything Vita related) and I want to plan ahead.

[@1982markjm]

BRO WHAT. The Xbox Series controller has an amazing Dpad. It's a disc with micro switches, the shape is perfect for rolling directions in fighting games. Big disagree on that one here. Maybe you play with the tip of your thumb? I use the joint of my thumb and it's absolutely perfect imo. Finished and played a bunch of new-retro games with zero issues. You anchor the joint in the middle of the dpad and just slide to the direction you want.

[@Vintiqueture]

It is a pretty awesome dpad, minor improvement over their last-gen controller, huge improvement over the 360. While I do like it, it is a smidget over the top with how clicky it is. The PS Vita is still the best dpad to come out in a while, the perfect marriage between a Sega Saturn dpad and the Neo Geo Pocket joystick.

[@mardukas13]

There's something that you mentioned and 8Bitdo showcased hugely on the ads for the Xbox Pro 2: the LT/RT triggers' vibration. It's meant for playing FPS and especially Forza, which rely a lot on that kind of features to transmit the game feel to the player. Does the Pro 2 Wireless feature that as well?

[@GrandeGio95]

Does it feature ?

[@yesmate78]

It's called haptic feedback

[@ryanghoul2515]

What's the reasoning behind wired instead of a wireless solution? I'll probably still get one but curious why they went with that design choice.

[@RetroGameCorps]

This is typical with third party Xbox controllers. The license fee is steep, and so to make it wireless too would force companies to charge more than a regular Xbox controller. So they are often wired to cut on their costs. I don't mind it with this controller since being wired will also improve its latency.

[@the_full_english]

For anyone looking for something a bit more like a PS controller to use on their XB then I’d recommend getting a Brook Wingman XB adapter rather than this. I’ve recently got a Series X and couldn’t get on with the controller so got a Brooks adapter off Amazon and use my trusty old DS4 controller on it, feels like home! 👍

[@heavilycontxst9799]

Have you noticed it’s delayed at all ?

[@abvisuals7200]

Is there any way to map the back paddles without using software?

[@DontGiveUp_Skeleton]

Is it strange to only want this controller because it's wired? I remember when you never once had to worry about replacing them or strategically placing them so they didn't disconnect.

[@animetodamaximum]

Well the Pro 2 for Switch/PC is wireless but includes a replaceable rechargeable battery that can be replaced with AAs or you can directly wire it via USB-C.

[@Eunostos]

I remember when i didn't have to worry about replacing them o strategically positioning them so they didn't disconnect. It was... today, since i typically leave my DualSense plugged in during use and never put batteries in my Xbone one at all.

[@DontGiveUp_Skeleton]

@@Eunostos The wire gets knackered, becomes rigid. I have to replace a wire every 4 months normally.

[@1BYEBYE1]

If they made this in wireless I would buy it

[@JakeSheedy]

Would you recommended this to someone who switched from PlayStation to Xbox but prefers the ps4 controller

[@yowamushi9557]

Can this be used on Android phone? I prefer to use wired controller so that I could use my BT earbuds while playing on my phone.

[@chef_games]

really want a wireless version of this!

[@seanwilliams5848]

Apparently if you do an Xbox branded controller it can’t be wireless or something like that or if it is wireless the company who is making that controller has to pay some weird tax thing so it’s expensive for them to make, something along those lines

[@SimonNeilScott]

Most conveniently timed video ever, as I just bought an Xbox series s and I'm finding the Xbox controller to be a bit unconformable after long play time. I do have an order Power A wired controller that works perfectly on the XBSS but I'm just more familiar with the PS style layout.

[@druidobianco9734]

Are there any news on a wireless version of this controller??

[@jefferysousa5261]

the only thing holding me back from owning an xbox is the controller. it's the position of the analog sticks. dualshocks have always felt more natural to me. All the 3rd party ones iv'e seen are garbage. haven't tried the usb dongle thing to make PS4 controllers work on xbox1, but the 8bitdo sn30 pro+ on switch is the best controller iv'e used since the dualshock 3. does this come in a bluetooth variant as well?

[@RetroGameCorps]

Unfortunately it doesn't, but there are certain adapters like the Brook Wingman XB that supposedly will work with other 8bitdo controllers. I haven't personally tested that, though.

[@MrDusuke]

This seems a good controller for pc gaming in general. But does this have everything else that the Bluetooth version has? Motion controls and everything? Because for only 5 dollars more the wireless version (having a battery, Bluetooth, motion controls etc) seems a better deal. You can still use it on pc (and maybe even on the Xbox with the 8bitdo adapter).

[@RetroGameCorps]

The wireless one won’t work on the Xbox even with an adapter, so that’s the main draw here. If you’re looking for PC gaming the other one is a better deal! This one doesn’t have gyro. The price is similar because an Xbox license is expensive, and so I think some of those fees are being added to the controller price. That’s why you can never find cheap controllers that work on Xbox!

[@CPUjunkie]

@@RetroGameCorps if you have a lot of usb xinput controllers you could make a video about how they do or don't work on the Xbox consoles

[@MrDusuke]

@@RetroGameCorps that's a great explanation. Thank you!

[@tynao2029]

It's like it's stuck between being a too-small DualShock and wanting to be an Xbox 360 controller. I'd just go with a 360 style for $20, no reason to pay any more than $15-20 for a controller these days. You can have any choice of any style at that price on Amazon or eBay

[@philbln]

Am I the only one experiencing the issue, that the XBox Wireless Headset has no sound when this controller is attached????

[@arcadequartercounter2120]

I'm buying one!

[@saschatrott87]

works the headphone port on windows on this controller?

[@vinylsquad7776]

I'll use it for fighting games

[@wiqy4733]

Does control freaks fit this controller

[@themixedmamba1012]

Just got mine but sadly this controller is not good for any fps games, well any game that deals with the analog sticks because the outer dead zones are in the shape of diamonds and not circular. There is no way to change this. This leads to not getting full directional movements. Basically diagonal movement doesn’t match horizontal or vertical

[@retrosensei]

8bitdo controllers always great

[@justinmaddox4134]

I ordered this for Mortal Kombat 1, the d-pad on the regular Xbox controller is terrible.

[@trayngk8247]

Does this controller haves drift on the joystick or no ?

[@ReapsVsTheWorld1]

The SNES is my favorite console, so I’m a sucker for these types of controllers. I love the two I have for the Switch. I can’t wait for this one.

[@thebocop]

Uhhhh gotta disagree completely on the modern Xbox Dpad not being good for retro gaming, it actually really is.

[@robertlawrence2278]

Looks great for mk11