8BitDo has officially opened pre-orders for the Arcade Controller Pro, a specialized input device aimed at competitive fighting game players. The controller is priced at $119.99 and is scheduled to begin shipping on November 30. This release marks the company’s second attempt at a joystick-free arcade controller, following an initial model launched earlier this year.
Upgraded Design for Competitive Play
The Arcade Controller Pro refines the concept introduced by its predecessor. 8BitDo reduced the size of the action buttons and decreased the spacing between them to accommodate different hand sizes and play styles. The company also increased the number of programmable buttons, allowing for more complex command inputs without relying on a traditional joystick.
A 1.47-inch display is embedded directly into the face of the controller. This screen serves multiple functions, including input monitoring to help players verify their button presses. It also allows users to customize button mappings and adjust RGB lighting effects without needing external software.
Battery Life and Comfort Features
8BitDo significantly increased the internal battery capacity to 3,000mAh. The manufacturer states that the device can recharge fully in four hours, addressing a common limitation in wireless arcade controllers. The unit is available in two color variants: N Edition and White.
To support longer gaming sessions, the controller includes a magnetic wrist rest. This accessory attaches to the bottom of the device to reduce strain. Inside the wrist rest, users will find five spare button caps. These allow players to swap out the standard buttons for different textures or heights to suit their preference.
The price point represents a premium over the original Arcade Controller, which starts at $89.99. The higher cost reflects the added display, larger battery, and refined button layout. Pre-orders are now active for customers looking to secure a unit before the late November release.
Source: Engadget
