8bitdo put nostalgia to practical use with the SF30 Pro and SN30 Pro, two controllers that are modeled after those of the Super Famicom and Super Nintendo. By adding modern touches, these controllers make for fully functional gamepads for the Nintendo Switch. Both connect via Bluetooth and are also compatible with Windows PC, MacOS, Android, and Raspberry Pi devices.One controller retails for $50 USD, but you get a fully featured gamepad; even though it`s modeled after the SNES pad, you get two bumpers (L, R), two triggers (L2, R2), dual analog sticks that click downward, and the home and screenshot buttons you see on Switch controllers. The SF30 Pro and SN30 Pro have motion controls as well, which is extremely important for games like Super Mario Odyssey and Splatoon 2.Pairing either controller is seamless for the Nintendo Switch, but you should note that it only connects wirelessly. Your PC need to be able to pick up Bluetooth in order to function, and it will be recognized as a Nintendo Pro Controller. However, it does sport a USB-C port to charge, and a USB-C-to-USB 2.0 cable comes in the package. Battery life is said to last up to 16 hours after charging for around two hours; with the SF30 Pro fully charged, I never had to plug it back in after my five hours using it on the Switch.As far as the buttons go, they all feel responsive and great to use. The classic design of these controllers do make them a bit tough to grip, but as long as you clamp the controller tightly enough on the sides, this shouldn`t be too much of a problem. These aren`t going to stand up to the precision and ergonomics of the official Pro Controller, but the SF30 Pro and SN30 Pro make the throwback design work surprisingly well.The SN30 Pro (above) and the SF30 Pro (below).By playing Zelda: Breath of the Wild, I got a feel for how these hold up in a full-fledged game. I didn`t have any issues with how they function, and it was novel playing a 2017 game with a throwback gamepad. I also ...
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