Russ posts a new video I click it

I've been playing with the 8bitdo SN30 and it's been perfect for this game. I've never felt any need to get the lite, but I think this video just changed my mind.

I would also say that this controller is great for Link's awakening. Especially since that game uses analogue stick for movement, yet locks you into 8 directions. This feels odd on the Switch analogue sticks, but feels perfectly at home on this controller. One major benefit with the controller is how pocketable it is without the sticks... Sure It's a compromised experience since the analogue sticks are converted in to digital d-pads, but for a lot of games you might not need analogue movement. Especially on the Switch where analog movement is actually hard to pull off due to the small travel on the sticks... I see the joy-cons more as a circular 360-degree controller rather than full range analogue controller anyway. :)

If you happen to have one, the official Switch SNES controller (for the Nintendo Switch Online SNES library) also works really, really well for Super Mario Wonder, for all the reasons you've laid out here. It has all the necessary inputs, and feels just like playing Super Mario World on an original SNES, except of course it's Wonder on a Switch. That said, knowing I could also connect it to my PC has me eyeing up the Lite, so, thanks for that. 😉

I use my 8bitdo pro 2. I have it for more than 2 years and rarely used it, but it's great for Mario wonder. I hope it will still work on whatever switch 2 is gonna be.

I've been playing with an NSO SNES controller. You don't have Home/Capture buttons but the controller is probably best all around for this specific game.

Wonderful review! Love the new format as well. Looking forward to more "Russ's video game reviews" :D Playing with an external controller is a nice idea. Might do that as well with my own SN30Pro.

I like the vibe of this video. Russ is basically a gaming sommelier making pairings between games and hardware

I've been using the Lite mostly for Dead Cells when traveling, and having a controller be so light and compact with a precise dpad is a huge plus when my bag is crammed full of other things. I also have a set of 3D printed grips for it that doesn't take up much space if I want a little more comfort.

I love SMB 2 as well, similar to your childhood. The day after my grandad retired in the mid-80s, he bought an NES to see what all his grandkids were talking about. He was an early riser and would usually have all his housework and chores done by 8:00 AM and would spend the rest of his morning playing the NES so he could connect with his grandkids (and because it was fun). He had SMB 2, Zelda 2, Contra, and SMB 3. He was the only person I knew that could beat Contra without the Konami code, could beat SMB 3 in about 15 minutes, and could ace SMB 2 without taking any damage. Us grandkids would love sitting in front of the tv while he played from the couch and slaughtered these games that gave us so much trouble. He was a legend and an amazing man. Thanks for that nostalgia trip, and for the solid perspective on this controller. All the best, Russ.

I'd love to see more videos like this! Tbh with most videos of yours I tend to be here for 70% of your experience and 40% of the actual hardware reviews because the way you present your story and how you incorporated your gadgets into your lifestyle/workflow is just nice to listen to haha

I think you struck the right balance between hardware, the game, and why the connection matters! I'd love to see similar videos like this - maybe best controller for N64 games, arcade, or something like Metal Gear Solid emulation (never played it).

I saw you talk about this controller on the Retro Handhelds podcast! Made me happy to hear because I've been using the same controller to play Wonder.

I really enjoyed this video. I liked how it kept going off-topic, touching on other things connected to but not strictly relevant to the main topic of the video.

I’ve been enjoying this game with my snes switch controller on my tv.

Awesome video Russ. I enjoyed the podcast you were a part of days ago. Keep it up

I personally like the big dpad on the 8Bitdo M30.

I’ve been using the 8bitdo Pro 2, with the back paddles mapped to Y so I’m not constantly mashing the Y and B face buttons. Works for me!

I know you're talking more about portability but in terms of raw comfort, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is exactly what you're looking for. It's the same button layout as the Pro you mentioned but it is shaped like a proper controller in that it has full grips for your hands. The added ergonomics really help with extended play times.

Hey Russ, i definitely want to give the controller a chance. If it's too small, it will be perfect for the kids to play platformers on. speaking of controllers, have you considered giving the CRKD Nitro Deck a review? I ordered one and must say, i really like its "feel" with the switch so far! The magnetic hall sensors guarantee no drift, the button response is smooth and there's mappable buttons underneath. It does add some bulk to the switch; but not as big as steam deck and it feels pretty solid in the hands! Would love to see a review on it from you one day! Thanks for all the awesome vidz!

I love my 8bitdo lite as a shirt pocket companion to phone emulation. I know that's not the point of the vid but it's nice to see it getting some love. I have many other controllers for different purposes but that model is so cool in being fully functional while fully flat; in-line shoulder buttons, d-pads mapped as joysticks etc, kind of genius for pocketable function.

Bought one of these a while back and it was fun at first but, too small for my hands. I definitely prefer the 8BitDo Pro 2 (SN30 Pro with grip), it has all the native SNES control scheme while adding features that only add to the experience. Things like grip, extra buttons, and control sticks give a lot more options than the cramped Lite controller. While portability is great, I don't really need it to be portable, ever. I rarely need to bring my switch out of the house; everyone that wants to play switch pretty much has one at this point. On the rare occasion that I am bringing my switch out of the house, I always need a bag so, carrying a "bulky" controller isn't necessarily an issue. I rarely have a situation where I'm thinking, "Dang, this controller is too big to carry around." Not only that but, if I want to play Xbox or PC games, the controller works fantastic for all games so, I'm not risking limiting myself to a 2d control-set. Regardless, great video Russ, glad to see you're enjoying the game too!

This video is very informative. I was stuck between this specific device and the 8bitdo Lite 2, because I wanted to play PPSSPP on my android as well. Looks like I'll be making this purchase, since I saw that my brother was playing PSP games with the D-pad. I need a small controller that I can stick inside my pocket and not have to worry about stick drift, which is a thing these days, sadly. Thanks for what you do, Russ!

Not to put too much work on you, but how about the Lite 2? That has some updated features, but has analog sticks. I'm just curious if they get in the way. Your breakdowns on hardware is great and I love watching your videos.

I have 2 of these controllers and recommend them to everyone, I usually just get tons of odd looks due to the 3 dpads, but if you retro game a ton they are wonderful

Spoiler alert: Mario turns into Donkey Kong and sprays his enemies with insecticide. Its like Donkey Kong 3 role reversal, and it is a wild power-up. Game changing.

I've just bought the 8bitdo lite controller and it's really good. I'll try it with Super Mario Wonder. Thanks for the tip!

Dude, I just bought the Lite for Deadcells and I love it. Funny you review it as I've been hunting for great dpads, guess I found the one already.

The 8bitdo lite is really the ultimate pocket controller.

Excellent video, Russ. It's like a series of micro review of several devices, with a narrow focus on platformers. Please do more with other genres in mind!

I'm playing it with my 8bitdo SN 30 Pro + and it feels about perfect. I agree with everything you say here, but I really prefer grips whenever possible. This is absolutely a D-Pad game regardless, and in my opinion it really makes the SNES feel of the SN30 shine. I'm old enough to remember the old NES Mario games and honestly I'm not really sure which one to compare Wonder to... I never really played the SNES ones because, like you, I had a Genesis at the time - so it's kind of nice with all these retro handhelds to experience them fresh these days. I think Wonder stands alone honestly - it's good enough to be it's own thing. For instance, for me Mario 64 is the GOAT - yet Wonder gives me the same kind of vibe despite lacking an entire dimension. It's good stuff.

Apparently I've been living under a rock. I have the new Super Mario RPG on order, but this is the first in hearing about Wonder

Super Mario 2 is also my fave Mario game... Was the last gift my grandpa gave me before he died when I was a kid...

When I started trying to get my wife into gaming she felt intimidated by analog sticks for some reason. Seeing as I started her off with Stardew Valley and the likes, which does not need analog controls - this is the controller I bought for her and the controller she used for over a year, until she "stole" one of my SN30 Pro controllers. :D

How this Quality channel is not 1 million subscribers yet ?

I'm curious how it would feel to play a dual joystick game with two dpads.. probably bad

I’m always fascinated how few ppl seem to suggest alternate joycons like the Split Pad Pro in situations like this. The default Joycon are horrendous imo, yet it still seems most ppl who play portably don’t recognize there are other options. I’m sure Russ is aware, but weird to see them not at least get a mention here. Granted, they do have that modern grip he dislikes.

Your gripes at around two minutes in are exactly why I invested in the Hori...pro...controller...grip...things. Switch is almost as comfortable to hold for a long time as the Deck now.

Just added this controller to my Amazon Xmas list!

3:45 dang. RIP Yuzu and RIP Stadia

I 3d printed a grip for it and it's an amazing controller!

its a nice controller option. i have an 8bitdo zero2 which is too small and lacks alot of buttons that are cumbersome to work around at times. it works wonders(no pun intended) on my ipad but it really is too small. seeing this video has me considering selling it if i can and just getting the controller mentioned here

I'm so glad you acknowledged the correct answer, the SN30 Pro.

Yo I love the review. Keep doing what you’re doing Russ!

I love the idea of more game-focused vids mate!

Thanks so much for this video. My girlfriend and I are playing through Wonder together and we can’t stand using the Joycons on their side. Just ordered 2 of them!

i have this controller, bought it on a whim at the game shop one day after seeing reviews about it almost a year ago, but it has been so amazing and pocketable for not only switch /switch lite gaming but also for Ipad gaming. i really love how easy and seamlessly it connects to my devices. would still recommend this to people anyday if they r looking for a portable controller for any 2D games

Oddly enough I was playing Mario Wonder on my PC with a PS4 controller and it made me fall in love with the D-Pad. It's so so good for platformers like these but then, maybe it's just that Wonder is such a joy and stellar platformer to play that the d-pad just shines through it. The 8Bitdo Wireless Controller Adapter is hands down one of my best purchases this year.

I've owned this controller! Put it in a drawer. Ah! There it is! Really thought I wouldn't find use for this controller!

The snes controller Nintendo sells on there online store is the best for wonder

I agree 100% with the comment that this is the best Super Mario Bros. game since SMB2. I too was eight when SMB2 was released and also grew up without an SNES in a Sega Genesis family. I look forward to hearing you review more games.

Thanks for the review, ordered one to play with Analog Pocket while docked 😅

Love the tip off for this video during the retro podcast 😂

This kind of video is really cool - niche (but applicable to many games) but enthusiastic, and you have a controller + game review all in one. This would be a cool series to continue!

I'm happy you're continuing to expand the range of content you're covering

I used the NSO SNES controller for most of the game and it was exquisite.

8bitdo SN30 Pro was my controller of choice. Bought it exactly for these type of games and retro emulation in general

Better than SMB3, SMW, and Yoshi's Island? HERESY Love you, Russ

I use my 8bitdo Arcade Stick, with the restrictor gate set to 4-way. It's so fun

Id love to hear more of your thoughts on the games you test while testing systems or ones you just like. Great video!

My 8BitDo SN30 Pro controller will always be my controller of choice for any 2D side-scrolling platformer such as Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Sonic Superstars, Mega Man 11, Celeste, Super Meat Boy, Bloodstained, Duke Nukem, TMNT: Shredder's Revenge, Monster World IV, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Metroid Dread, Cuphead, Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero, Ninja Gaiden III, Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure, Popful Mail, Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest, Contra 3: The Alien Wars, Earthworm Jim 2, Rocket Knight Adventure, and Ori and the Blind Forest,

I love watching reviews about controllers I already own 💙

I really don’t like the idea of flat controllers, but here I am watching this 😂

I love this controller. I mostly use it for GBA games as the clicky short travel pad and buttons remind me of my old GBA SP or my 3DS XL.

SMB3 and SMW can’t be overlooked. I feel like SMB2 was out of place. I was about the same age as you when it came out and played it like crazy but it never felt like a Mario game to me and I’m feeling that same thing with Wonder so your assessment of it makes sense to me. I know it’s a Mario game but something about it feels like it’s out in of place in the Mario line up. I can’t exactly explain what that is but with that said I am loving the game.

Im trying to get back into retro gaming on PC and this looks like the perfect controller!

Now I'm expecting the M17 video. Damn, I love those obscure cheap handhelds and just ordered one for myself.

Love this angle, great vid! We also had a lot of love for SMB2 back in the day (same for Zelda 2, I think both are seriously underrated!)

Being half your age, I need that glorious OLED display closer to my eyes, so laying the switch in my lap or on a table to use an additional controller is 😩. Fortunately, my recently acquired Nitro Deck in retro purple 👍👍 is a Wonderful Way (tm) to play Mario Wonder. Having said all this, I plan on hooking up the Switch to my tv and….of course…..purchasing the 8 bit do controller, because when I die there will be two coffins- for all my 8 bit do controllers.

The 8BitDo Lite controller was the $25 hack for playing Ryu, Ken, and Terry in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. D-Pad instead of a stick meant that you could more easily use the classic moves those characters offer.

This controller, and their new Neo Geo controller are my favorite platforming, fighter, and shmup controllers they have...

Because I am old I have spent thousands of hours on all the OG Super Mario Bros 2D platformers all the way back to the original NES in the late 80's. I spent the most time on Super Mario World on the SNES and the SNES controller was so perfectly matched to that game as well as every other Mario 2D game that it is the only controller design I can enjoy using. This is why the official Nintendo SNES wireless controller released for use with Nintendo Switch Online SNES games is the only controller for me. It is equally perfect with Super Mario Bros Wonder. I have multiple 8bitdo's and they are all great is the Pro Controller but only that SNES form factor gets the job done for me.

Finally I can give a use to my controller, I bought it for fomo and I've NEVER used it haha

Now i want one

Honestly I prefer the analogue stick to the DPAD for platformers. I wonder why everyone else loves the DPAD So much.

1:05 😵‍💫 so I guess I been living under a rock because I didn't know there was another Super Mario bros game, there are honestly so many I don't know which one is the most recent and they all look the same to me so I stopped paying attention to them, I haven't played a mario game since the collection release because I like 64 and Galaxy I think I played Super Mario Bros 2 or whatever the one on the wii was or wii u i can't remember

I'll have to remember this. Overall I really like the Lite controller. It's the controller I take to work for playing games on breaks (I swear!). It's small and easy to store, very durable (more so since it has no analog) and keeps a charge for a really long time

I had completely forgotten about this purchase a while back definitely a great fit for Wonder and other platformers 😊

I have 8bitdo pro 2 and 8bitdo lite 2, almost always use the pro 2, but for platforming games the lite 2 is just perfect, its compact and the dpad is a lot more confortable for platforming. Also in some cases I rlly appreciate a analogue stick for some games, like in advanced stages on celeste or even in water stages of mario wonder, so the lite 2 stays as the best, atleast for me.l.

I currently have 3 8bitdo Ultimate controllers (2 are 2.4ghz, 1 is the bluetooth model), 2 SN30 pro controllers, 6 N30 pro controllers, 2 M30 controllers, 1 of the NeoGeo controllers and the 8bitdo stick. Somehow, I find myself watching this video and considering the 8bitdo Lite.....

I tried this out on Russ' recommendation and I don't regret it. It's a nice feeling controller that disappears into my experience playing the game. Great game pairing!

I been using an OG SN30 or this game and it is perfect IMO

Much love from Los Angeles!

For portable I’ve been playing it with the Hori Split Pad Compact, and on the TV either the NSO SNES controller or 8bitdo Pro 2. It’s been pretty good so far!

I use a official Nintendo Switch Online SNES controller. Most authentic experience and it feels absolutely amazing.

I too was a genesis kid. Our lake house came with an NES... Don't ask, there was a lot of weird things with that lake house, like an old family album. Also there was a neighbor connection to that house. A lot with that house confused me. It was a great house, with only ONE shower and it wasn't in the Master Bath. That just had a giant tub. OH and our Conversion Van had an NES in it. But the lake house came with a few games. Ultima, Mario 1 and Duck Hunt, Mario 3, with the gun. None of us kids figured out Ultima since we never heard of RPGs at that time. Oh and there was an old Nintendo Power which was kind of neat.

As a mostly "indie & retro" gamer, I love my 8bitdo Lite, I mostly play 2D games, and the Dpad as accurate as hell

Love Wonder it's soundtrack is amazing too 🔥

Bought it at your recommendation. I realized I enjoy the pro controller d-pad more than the original SNES controller, but was looking for a better hand position. Hope it will suit me.

Ive had my lite controller for a few years now i use it to play all the switch online games too along with the fire emblem and dragon quest titles on switch and several more 2d oriented games on steam when i dock my deck

I would like to see games that You have in Your ROM collection and what You always carry around in these devices. Something like top 50 or 100 :)

Ordered the last used one on Amazon when I heard you talk about this version on the RH podcast. My wife is gonna love it for Wonder. Hopefully the best $20.00 spent in a while.

A fellow Super Mario Bros 2 aficionado!😢😊

This was such a cool idea for a controller but one that flopped in execution. Idk why no controller has circle pads instead of sticks. If they really want to make a flat controller for storage, they could use sliders and still have analog controllers

I've been using my sn30 to play Mario and it feels great!

Very interesting perspective on Marios of old-I was expecting you to tow the proverbial party line and say Super Mario World, not Super Mario Bros 2. It’s difficult to describe the evolution of Mario to those who didn’t experience it in real-time, especially given the technical constraints of growing up in the 80s and 90s sans interwebs, and at the time Mario 2 was definitely a magical departure that seemed like an experimental, expansive attempt at “changing the game” rather than a re-skin of another game. In those days, we had to be devout disciples of Game Pro, Electronic Gaming Monthly, and Nintendo Power magazines to know the “inside stuff” (another 90s reference for us oldies but goodies), and even then we were limited to playground perspectives rather than world wide discourses. At any rate, great peek at this controller (and behind the curtain of your workflow and emulation habits) and this great new title. As always, keep up the great work!

Great video!

I've been using my Super Nintendo Switch Online controller with this game and it's perfect.

There are probably 3 better controllers for SM Wonder, but 2 of them are hard to acquire and the other is a mod; - SN30 (can't find them for sale anymore) - NSO SNES (always out of stock) - 8bitdo Mod Kit OG SNES Besides those I think the 8bitdo lite is a good choice if you already have it. Though you would miss out on the HD rumble. So playing on a Switch Pro Controller makes a lot of sense too, though you would lose the nostalgia factor to the modern d-pad placement and ergonomics.

I would throw the 8bitdo M30 into the mix, gonna try it and get back with a verdict.