8Bitdo Pro 2 Controller Review: Great Retro Style Controller for the Modern Gamer

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 controller is an SNES-inspired controller that uses the nostalgic design of the SNES controller while adapting it for modern times. It has an ergonomic shape, dual stick, compatibility with various systems, vibration, and other features a typical controller has today.

8Bitdo Pro 2 Design and Features

The first thing you notice is that the controller looks like the Dualshock and an SNES controller had a baby. The 8Btido Pro 2 has great ergonomics on it. It is very comfortable to hold, and the grip is also really good. Though this controller borrowed some design for the Dualshock controllers for ergonomics, the grips for the Pro 2 are almost parallel to each other. The Dualshock on the other hand has a more angled grip. For me, it is not a big deal as it is easier for me to use the analog sticks when it is in line with the grip. This slight straighter grip angle is made for people who are used to Nintendo-style controllers.

The face buttons use the Xbox layout while the direction buttons use the Nintendo-style D-pads. You have the standard Select, Start, and Home buttons in the middle. Below are 2 analog sticks and it also has the standard shoulder buttons on top of the controller. What makes this a “pro” controller is at the back there are two more buttons that are customizable. These two buttons/paddles are labeled P1 and P2, and both can be programmed to other inputs.

The 8Bitdo Pro 2 connects via Bluetooth connection on most systems. At the back of the controller, there is a slider switch that can change the controller’s modes and compatibility settings. It is labeled as S/A/D/X; S for Switch, A for Apple devices, D for Android devices or DirectInput, and X for Windows or XInput. Pro 2 has 1000 mAh that lasts up to 20 hours and needs 4 hours of charging.

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Gaming with 8Bitdo Pro 2

I played some Dark Souls 3 and Monster with this controller on my PC. As expected, the Pro 2 performs admirably. Even though it is connected via Bluetooth the latency and input lag are very minimal. It has been an exceptionally smooth experience so far. Just for the fun of it, played some unranked Dota with it because a little chaos makes the game interesting, and Pro 2 is still very responsive. Also played Breath of the Wild with this controller and it was quite a good experience.

The motion control was pretty good too, on par with the switch controllers. The only disappointing part is that there is no HD rumble packs.

Should you buy the 8Bitdo Pro 2?

For sure, there are many reasons to buy this controller. For one, it is a very solid product for its quality. The retro style is also very appealing to look at, the modern take on it is very seamless. Compatibility is also good, especially for someone like me who wants a controller that can be used on multiple devices. Lastly, it is also cheap, prices tend to be around $50 and you would probably get it cheaper with discounts and sale promos.

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