Geek Pick: 8BitDo’s Zero 2 Is a Fully Functional Keychain Controller

8BitDo never seems to run out of ideas for its ever-expanding line of retro-style wireless controllers. Its latest, the Zero 2, is by far the smallest controller released by the company. Though it mostly exists to serve as an awesome keychain accessory, the Zero 2 is a fully functional device that lives up to 8BitDo’s high standards. The Zero 2 isn’t the easiest controller to play games with but no one can deny it’s a cool icebreaker to have danging from your keychain.

The Zero 2 controllers I’m reviewing have the same color schemes as the Nintendo Switch Lite (yellow and blue). Each has a d-pad, four face buttons, two shoulder buttons, and Start and Select buttons. A pink variant is also available. The durable hard plastic shell prevents the tiny controller from feeling cheap. Every button produces a satisfactory “click” when depressed. Because of its size, the Zero 2 lacks triggers. It also doesn’t have the Nintendo Switch’s Share and Home buttons. Pressing down on the D-pad plus Select is an alternative for the latter.

Like all 8BitDo wireless controllers, the Zero 2 is compatible with a variety of Bluetooth devices. Specifically, the Switch, PC, macOS, and Android. I had no issues pairing the controller to my Switch and PC. All I had to do was follow the instructions that come with the controller. It should not take folks more than a minute (if even that) to pair the controller to a desired device and jump right into their games.

Because it lacks analog sticks and LZ and RZ buttons, the Zero 2 isn’t suitable for most modern titles. But when it comes to playing retro games, the controller gets things done. Don’t let its small size fool you, the Zero 2 is every bit as precise and responsive as any other 8BitDo controller out there. If you can get past the controller’s size (we’ll get to that in a bit), you’ll have no issues playing platformers like Sonic Mania or the original Super Mario Bros. Beat ‘em ups like Final Fight and Streets of Rage are great to play as well.

Unfortunately, the controller’s size makes it unsuitable for extended play sessions. Like I said in the intro, the Zero 2 is a neat accessory to show off to people. While you can certainly play games with it, the controller is by no means a primary device. This is especially true if you have large hands as I do. I state all of this for those who may question the necessity for such a small controller. Don’t think of it as a replacement or even a secondary controller. That’s not the point of the Zero 2.

8BitDo’s Zero 2 is an awesome keychain accessory that also serves as a portable controller. Though far from a necessary or “must own” product, it really is a fun and charming trinket to own. However, if you do choose to play games with it, you’ll find the controller surprisingly adept. Those who are into unique gaming accessories with $20 to spare can’t go wrong with the Zero 2.

You can buy the 8BitDo Zero 2 on Amazon.



from Geek.com https://ift.tt/2s23ZUO
via IFTTT

0 comments:

Post a Comment