8Bitdo NEO GEO Wireless Controller Review | NONstalgia? Something's Not Quite Right.

[@kevinnava822]

I didn't like the long travel so I placed some very small painters tape on the shaft and now feels much better, it´s an easy mod, it took me about 15 minutes.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Oh cool, thanks for the tip! I was certain it could be improved through modding.

[@kevinnava822]

@@RetroBreezeYT yeah it's a lot better, now I'm looking to replace the spring for some heavier ones

[@SettlingTape33]

Ah you're a lifesaver. I never would have thought of doing this. I just did it and it feels much better.

[@Cajun-Asian]

I believe you can fix the deadzone problem by widening the stick shaft. That way the deadzone would be theoretically shorter. But that would require either a new 3d printed stick shaft or adding padding to the existing stick.

[@Eth3realwarrior]

I was thinking of the same thing. I'm going to drop a comment soon on what I plan to do.

[@kevinnava822]

I added 3 layers of painters tape to the shaft, it adds about 1mm extra thickness and now the diagonals are very easy to press. Sorry my bad english hehe

[@dfcx1]

I tried wrapping tape around the shaft to make it thicker but to me it doesn't really fix anything. I guess the deadzone is a bit smaller, but the feeling that you have to push the stick all the way to the edge to get it to actuate is still there and this is by far the most laboursome directional controller I've ever tried. I think the problem is with the switch/spring.

[@RetroGameCorps]

Thanks for the insights, Shem! Love the shots of you playing on the tablet. I got one of these but as soon as I unboxed it I realized I was in over my head in terms of how this controller "should" feel. I've never played on the original console. So I ended up buying an OG Neo Geo CD controller from Japan and I'm waiting for it to arrive before I make any judgements :)

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Thank you for watching! Honestly I was a bit nervous with my limited exposure to the OG but I just thought "yeah man, I wanna do it anyway" when I couldn't source one. How much did that one from Japan set you back?!

[@RetroGameCorps]

@@RetroBreezeYT it was about $80 but something I’ve always been curious about, so it’s for a good cause. Now I’m trying to stop myself from buying a NGPC, since that’s another stick I’ve wanted to try 😆

[@RetroBreezeYT]

@RetroGameCorps oh wow, that's a great price! Yes, I'm stopping myself from buying an NGPC daily... My local shop has a mint one in-box as well...

[@sambagogo777]

A refreshingly honest review amid a sea of corporate shill reviews of 8bitdo products from other KZbinrs with their business relationships to protect and affiliate links to push. Bravo! I'll be firing up my old Neo Geo Pocket Color later to use its glorious stick controller again.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Haha cheers! Actually before setting this one live I was pretty nervous with how different my opinion is to everyone else's but I'm glad to stay true to my thoughts on it. I want a Neo Geo Pocket Color so bad 🫠

[@sambagogo777]

@@RetroBreezeYT Out of curiosity I just looked on eBay to gauge what is the going rate for a used NGPC nowadays. Not cheap!

[@dezraj340]

@@RetroBreezeYT Frame Counting also made a review of this controller and complained about the diagonals not being precise for fighting games. Here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hImTfXZ4gLOSqLM

[@ClickyControl]

Great work with the teardown! - very enlightening.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Cheers, thanks for watching!

[@xaytana]

On your DIY handheld, I'd recommend using a lower stick gate, similar to what full-sized sticks use. This will constrain the gate to the switches, rather than constraining the gate to the stick's throw (and by extension, tolerances and movement within the case and the case-module mounting), you'll end up with a much tigher tolerance on the switch cluster which will make it feel a lot nicer and more consistent. You could drop a 4-way gate in there or an 8-way gate, or have the two be swappable. Neo Geo tried miniaturizing a proper arcade stick, 8BD tried replicating this, and you can tell the tolerances aren't super optimal based on design, and without seeing a teardown of the PDP module (which at this point would be a rare find considering how old that thing is and long before teardowns of components were common) I'm not sure if anyone has really tried doing the full-sized-stick-style directional stick, as I know the Vader 3 Pro has its switches planar to the PCB like any other pivoted Dpad; though the PDP module does look more akin to the NG Pocket Color's dstick assembly, just larger. I do want to see the Dstick be popularized by a company within a modern context, it's supposed to be the golden middle ground of a fight stick and a gamepad, and is supposed to provide the golden middle ground between the Saturn-style Dpad and the Nintendo-style (which everyone uses now, outside of a few edge cases) Dpad; if you don't know the never-ending debate, one feels more accurate in input and the other feels faster/better to use. But I don't think this module design is the correct path, too many parts, too much complexity, this is why the Pocket and PDP module are nicer, and why gated lever switches (akin to what full sized sticks will use) seems like the next step forward. I almost also want to see the hybridization of a Dstick and an Astick, FGC players seem to like the longer throw of the Dstick so why not also throw some analog under it and have two components in one; not to mention the the combination of analog with endstop switches could have massive implications given the current issues with analog sticks, though there'd be some design challenges to incorporate the two nicely.

[@sarabihyena]

Thankyou for putting all this effort into explaining the problems with the stick, I was very tempted to grab this because having a fun clicky stick as the centerpiece of a controller was very apealing. Hopefully they'll make a better one next time, for now you saved me $30 thankyou.

[@Ryan_Mercury]

This was quite the in-depth review. Very informative and honest to boot. Disassembling and reassembling the device must have been a real pain. ^^ A toast to your dedication.

[@cptncutleg]

I wonder if 3d printing a stick with a slight bulge would reduce the throw needed to actuate the microswitches and alleviate the issues with diagonals?

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Perhaps, but I think 3D printing the actuators themselves would be better.

[@jonathaningram8157]

The M30 I had also has that shoulder button issue and I had to return it. New one is fine. I can be really hit & miss with 8bitdo.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Oh that's interesting. Maybe I'll tear one of those down and take a look sometime!

[@DavidFilskov]

I'm quite sure that the main part of click sounds is coming from the white actuators hitting the black shell (the top part) when activating the micro-switches. The sound of the micro-switches themselves in my experience is very subtle and dampened.

[@HollowRick]

Great review you've just saved me £30 hopefully this can be revised in the future by 8bitdo

[@FromWitchSide]

Thank you for the review. I was just about to order it, but was concerned about things like long throw and decided to check few more reviews. Your review basically showed exactly what I was afraid of with the travel/throw, and possibly stopped me from wasting money. There were also 2 reviews from another channels where reviewers mentioned having to learn hitting diagonals as the initial input with it, which also kind of hit on what I imagined might be a possible issue and tied to the long throw + how 2 switches are actuated. I'm personally very wary of 8bitdo controllers as I find their dpads to be low quality despite what big name reviewers tend to say, but also due to reliability issues and various quirks, including with the firmware. I find compatibility a less of a concern, especially since I don't have Switch (but would really be annoyed if I had), but even then it is inconvenient that Direct Input is only available through BT which means I can't use it on some old PCs, and to lesser degree also that xInput isn't available through BT (RetroArch for Android can be very picky with Direct Input controllers support). Older 8bitdo controllers allowed you to switch between modes freely, and some like my FC30 Pro even had Wii compatibility (which then got removed with firmware updates... 8bitdo...). Anyway I wanted to use it for arcade games in general, but also home computer ones (Amiga) cause it is really hard to find a full sized digital joystick that isn't completely worn out and the prices are going insane. I guess I will have to refurbish an actual Amiga era joystick for home computer games, and also change stick in my Hori HRAP4 Kai (stock one has too long throw for me as well, doesn't feel anything like a real arcade from back in the day).

[@alexwoywood5950]

The stick on mine will click before actually registering the input. Nothing happens till I push past the click point making the throw feel very long. The only cure I can think of would be to 3D print a thicker shaft to help shorten the throws but that wont help the inconsistent micro switches.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Yeah that sounds about right. I considered trying some 3d printed fixes but don't know if I could have the time!

[@DavidFilskov]

I've already tried that but I could only make the shaft just below 1 mm thicker on each side (it's a square formed stick). Larger than that you can't press the stick into place. The slightly thicker stick made the throw a little bit shorter but not much. I think they should replace the silent micro-switches with ones that click and not depend on the actuators to make the click sounds.

[@STR82DVD]

Thanks man! I'm just looking at this one with use on the Neo Geo Mini (MVS iteration). Super helpful young lad.

[@Bigoukun]

I must admit, I’m pretty curious to learn more about your DIY clicky-stick. Speaking of clicky-sticks, I’m surprised with your glowing opinion on the one from the PDP Versus Fighting Pad. I’m one for Xbox 360, and it rapidly stopped registering the diagonals, (only pure up, pure, down, pure left and pure right function) which is quite problematic for lot of games, especially the fighting games this controller is supposed to be made for. (It’s is one of the many reasons your DIY clicky-stick interest me so much.)

[@tappersreviews4677]

My shoulders feel ok and sound about the same. However, the stick could be better. Shorter actuation throw and a nicer actuation sound and feel would've been ideal. But, it's OK overall.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Yeah I think somewhere between OK and Good is where I'd put it, but definitely not as good as I thought it would be!

[@cptncutleg]

I've got an original pad, I'll try swapping some parts around internally to see if I can't fix some of the issues so I can recommend it as a potential fix for some issues. The original pad I have has a broken microswitch on the left, so it's been wallowing in my parts box for a while.

[@cptncutleg]

Okay, so number 1 issue as I open this up is that straight away, I can see that a square gate has been added that restricts the throw to be even smaller than the original. In addition, the actual central stick is marginally thicker to the point where the original cap won't easily fit. The new cap is marginally smoother than the original, but I can't feel the difference personally. I'll open it up, replace the springs and stick and see if it feels better. I'm considering some card stock to fix the bumpers in place

[@cptncutleg]

The red, blue and green buttons seem a hint more vibrant and upon opening the controller, it looks like I made a mistake, as both controllers have the same square gate built into the stick-module, and digital calipers show the same width of gate as well as the diameter of the circle on the shell. Stick width makes no noticeable difference as to throw, so I'm thinking it's down to the springs. Likely the stiffer springs also led to greater wear and tear on the original's microswitches, so it might have been intentional to increase lifespan or unintentional in that nobody checked the original's spring tension, or even that their basis was on worn out springs. Prepping for switching springs and I'll post my findings on Reddit in addition to here when I get a chance. I only pray it's not the microswitches themselves.

[@cptncutleg]

Yeah, these springs are so much thinner. Unfortunately, the old springs are too wide for the new switches, so we'll have to find stronger springs of the same width to improve the stick.

[@type2red]

“Clicky stick not easy to make.”

[@MadJackChurchill1312]

Somebody finally had some not perfect things to say about 8bitdo. I’ve not enjoyed any of their controllers, to be honest

[@RetroBreezeYT]

I've loved all the ones I've had (except this), but not a single one out of four has lasted over a year.

[@dadrising6464]

My snes one still works great.. the only third party snes controller that felt right. Same for the 6 button genesis controller.

[@MadJackChurchill1312]

That’s great! I have had three die on me with no help from them.

[@FanaticsRUs2011]

Shoulder buttons on mine sound pretty much identical. The throw is a bit wide, but enjoying mine thus far. The clicky stick on mine is miles better than that horrid neo geo mini pad

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Oh yeah its so much better than the mini!

[@DavidFilskov]

I removed the springs (and inserted some thin pads between the actuators) on mine. Here you can hear the micro-switches themselves in action without the springs pushing the actuators against the shell making the hollow clicks: kzbin.infoEApS6MYikSs

[@Blas4ublasphemy]

Great review and I agree, subbed

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Thank you so much! Happy to have you!

[@wybuchowyukomendant]

Slippery cap is the whole point, I always used it like an arcade stick, not a normal analog, any grip on it would seriously cuck the sticks ability to do what it's suppose to do

[@benhobson3084]

So I bought this because I saw it recomended elsewhere. I am new to retro games, and very bad at them. Compared to my Xbox series, steam deck and PS5 controller, this thing has been made a remarkable diference. Those big buttons are god send for smashing rabid inputs. One thing I did notice, I had the same issues with the shoulder buttons when I unboxed it. I took it apart to move the buttons to match the Xbox colour pateren used by the games I'm playing. (Don't judge me) After re-assembly I noted that then shoulders felt more even. I think it might just be an imperfection in the assembly process fixed by re-seating the PCB's in plastic grooves that hold them in place.

[@alexvibes84]

Which model name you show on video gamepad with microswitches?

[@VulkanSlayer]

i bought it on amazon and returned the day after... great gamepad, but same as you i noticed the stick was awful... it was too soft and sometimes had false click... i tried with neo geo emulators and i had better experience using the analog stick on my xbox360 controller... you are the only one on youtube telling the truth... the stick is bad.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Sorry to hear you didn't like it either. I usually love clicky sticks but this one... eh...

[@marceloviniciusribeirodefr3604]

Hello, I have a problem with my controller, when I put it down it doesn't make any noise, would it be advisable to open it to see if it's not badly fitted.

[@RetroBreezeYT]

I'd just return it and get a replacement. Probably not worth opening up.

[@overoula]

got it today...played 2-3 games on my analogue pocket... i find it very loud for me...clicky cliky ..the dpad +buttons... goes back to the box now :P i prefer playing with other 8bitdo controllers

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Yeah the clickiness isn't for everyone! I enjoy a light tactile click but didn't like the NeoGeo pad at all.

[@Marlevlyn]

4:21 what game are you playing

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Crossed Swords - NEO GEO!

[@MrOpz]

Good to see/hear feedback like this. Not every person likes the same thing. But it is still quite a contrast to a review like the Scarlet Sprites review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4PPe4uFbZqUb6M He's very familiar with the original and also talks about other interesting points. Nice to see these alternative opinions, because I ordered one and I'm not familiar with the original but do have to crappy Neo Geo Mini version so I'm curious how I will feel about the controller's stick :)

[@JSFTR]

Is this compatible with iOS?

[@gamingguy9006]

Perfect for mame

[@RetroBreezeYT]

Of course! Clicky controls are always great for arcade games!

[@type2red]

Glad i skipped this controller 🎮 hopefully it gets updated, i still have 2 of the originals i bought years ago before the inflated prices of today and have the neo geo mini ones that came bundled with my mini set. Guess just have to wait for a better option for modern consoles or diy.

[@J43rv1]

2d arcade skyrim? lol. lmao even.

[@Hobbes64343]

First again

[@British]

joke of a review

[@RetroBreezeYT]

I'd be happy to hear your feedback so that I can improve next time!