Accessory maker Retro-Bit is back with a new take on its Tribute64 controller, this time offering fans the chance to enjoy wireless gameplay with the Nintendo 64.
The company launched a wired version of the Tribute64, a redesign of Nintendo's iconic N64 pad that was inspired by the popular Hori Mini Pad 64, in April 2019, and we were happy to recommend it in our review at the time. Retro-Bit is promising to deliver the same level of quality with this new wireless edition, so we're hopeful that these new controllers will be worth the money.
The wireless 2.4GHz Tribute64 features a repositioned D-Pad, added Home and Select buttons, and built-in rumble (so no need for a Rumble Pak). As well as being compatible with your N64, it'll also come bundled with a second receiver which can be used with "most" USB devices, including your Nintendo Switch.
Pre-orders are going live today in 'Ultra', 'Classic Grey', and 'Atomic Purple', with each controller being priced at $39.99.
If you're interested, you can pick one up by visiting one of the stores listed on Retro-Bit's site here.
Comments 33
I’d rather have the original analog stick than this. Why can’t a company create a premium replacement 64 controller with an updated original style stick that’s constructed using metal components? I’d pay good money for that.
I bought the Retrobit Saturn pad a few weeks ago. The D-pad broke on its 2nd use. I won't be going near them again.
Without a proper trigger, I'm not sure this would really do it for me, but it's nevertheless pretty cool!
Looks great. I think it looks better than the wireless brawler 64
@OorWullie the saturn pad is great. Don't abuse it like that
"Retro-Bits"
Nah, I'm good.
If only goldeneye was re released.
@jobvd I thought it was great too for about an hour. Then I felt something click and now the left side of the D-pad doesn't work.
Rubbish, the Megadrive pad up on the D pad just stopped working one day even though I had hardly used it. I'd never buy their junk again. Poorly and cheaply made.
Sorry but the original N64 controller was perfect, why do people try and fix perfection? You just fail
@rjc-32 Indeed, there’s something special about the N64 controller that no-one seems able to replicate. I’m certain half the people claiming N64 games have aged horribly are playing on a modern controller that loses all the precision of the original stick. Not to mention using an analogue stick for the c-buttons...
Eh, doesn't look like a right controller to play DDR by fingers.
Hmm the Stick placement is actually bad for this controller! For Quake 1 for example I use the d-pad to move and the stick to look. It is just as I play on a modern controller. With this one I cant do that.
@rjc-32 This is the product you're looking for: https://steelsticks64.com/
But unfortunately availability is abysmal (along with a expectedly high price).
@Zuljaras I always used the C-buttons for movement and stick to look. I think the C-buttons are perfect for a WASD-style movement.
@Moshugan maybe but I am "looking" with my right hand stick. With this controller it is impossible. With the original it can go both ways because of its weird design.
@OorWullie don't abuse their excellent controllers
The D-Pad looks really thin
Ay I got way too many controllers at this point 😂 I'm in control already NL! Switch Pro launch controller, base joycons, red blue first gen (hyper drift) joycons, gamecube wireless, NES add ons, SNES controller EU version, SplitPad Pro attachment and the new MH Rise Pro Controller (since the joycons constantly drift / to have a level playing field for fighting games). I'll mayyyybe get an N64 controller if Hori or Nintendo releases a full reprint with bluetooth. But please, I have enough controllers haha a PS5s worth of them
definitely interested...what is the build quality and longevity of their other controllers?
Got some of the original wired ones of these and wasn't a huge fan, just feels off , like size and shape feel strange and stick seemed to be not calibrated well. Bit of a let down.
Weridly the best N64 one I got was some generic copy of the original controller on amazon.
It's only one that gets the stick and Z feel like the original.
I'm gonna wait for reviews of this thing. I already have 4 N64 pads, and the cord length was never really an issue. I do like the layout and the ability to rumble without adding a tumor to the back, but not having a built-in mic to play Hey You Pikachu!! is a bit of a deal breaker.
How are you supposed to play GoldenEye 64/Perfect Dark dual analog with this?
@Zuljaras Ah yes, I get it. I wish they made inverted controllers by order, even if it cost extra!
@rjc-32 Honestly, that old stick is outdated. Making it metal would be more costly and also, moot. I've used their brawler 64 and the stick is LOADS better. There's no replacement for GOOD modern advances!
NINJA APPROVED
@Lone_Beagle I've owned two of their brawler 64 controllers for 2 years, thus far. They are a newer company, but the build quality is stellar. Highly recommended.
NINJA APPROVED
I'd definitely consider getting a couple of these down the road when I have my own place given they review well. Having the N64 setup on my 4K TV with wireless controllers in a drawer would be awesome!
@BloodNinja Well I’m afraid I disagree, as would anyone who plays any N64 game that requires any kind of aiming. N64 games were programmed around that specific stick and don’t play as well with the modern sticks with twitchy potentiometers. Making the stick (and inner components) metal would not be moot as it would almost completely eliminate the stick wear. Sure, it would be expensive, but it would be a premium product if someone was willing to produce it, something I would definitely pay for (if availability could be guaranteed unlike the steelsticks).
I can't believe I'm the first to say how nostalgic this leaves me for the WaveBird
@rjc-32 exactly. If its not three pronged with a central stick and a Z trigger button then its not an N64 controller imo 🤷♂️
i remember getting one to play with Doubutsu no Mori on N64.
the D-Pad was on the center (on mine anyways) instead of being on the left like the new one was.
they were okay. i only used it because of how i've been used to playing with modern controls these days.
@rjc-32 I’ve played both back to back. There’s literally no difference, other than the original feels like a child’s toy that’s on the verge of breaking.
@BloodNinja Objectively speaking the original stick is the more accurate stick, but its great that you enjoy the more modern design. I, along with many others, prefer the original.
Gotta agree with others saying we need one with the three pong design
Bought another 64 controller few years back, and its stick feels like brand new.. ky original 3 controllers arent perfect but still function OK enough to get enjoyment out of
The only gripe I have is when the stick wears out and also it's very uncomfortable the stick i find after few hours use, can start to feel blisters kick in there
All I want is a comfortable and reliable stick to go with the original design
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