Console: Sega Saturn
Accessory: Retro-Bit 8-Button Arcade Pad 2.4 Ghz Wireless (Clear Blue)
Release Date: 09/13/2019
Price: $34.99
(Retro-Bit / Sega, 2019)
Bluuuuuue, blue skiiiies! 🎶
When retro-gaming console and accessory maker Retro-Bit announced their collaboration with Sega back in 2018 to release new iterations of classic Saturn controllers in new USB, Bluetooth, and 2.4 Ghz Wireless variations, it set many a gamer's heart afire.
With its smooth ergonomics, 8-way directional D-Pad, 6 button ABC-XYZ layout, and L and R trigger buttons, its easy to see why the Sega Saturn pad has become revered by many gamers the world over for its overall comfort and precision, and Retro-Bit has not only faithfully recreated the original controllers, but has also added a few new modern features as well.
-Functionality-
In terms of functionality, the new controllers now have 'Home' and 'Select' buttons added to the center of the controller's face that add the ability to interact more efficiently with more modern consoles like the PS3 and Nintendo Switch. As an added bonus, the new 'Select' button works with the Sega Genesis / Mega Drive Mini to bring up the 'System Menu' to easily access save game states and the option to return to the 'Home' screen. Additionally, the 'Home' button works as advertised on the Nintendo Switch to bring you back to the Switch's Home Screen, while the 'Select' button pauses in game action. Both are welcome additions that add smooth interfacing with newer consoles and devices.
The 2.4 Ghz Wireless Saturn pads also come with 2 wireless receivers (one 'Original Port' receiver to be used on original Saturn hardware, and one 'USB' receiver to allow connecting to PC, Mac, PS3, Switch, and the Sega Genesis / Mega Drive Mini to name a few).
-Form Factor and Design-
If you are a fan of the of the original Saturn controller design, these new iterations will not disappoint, and other than a slightly different feel to the trigger buttons when pressed, and the overall texture of the plastic for the D-Pad, these new Saturn controllers are nearly identical to the originals. You can tell a lot of care was put into recreating the the original experience and finer details.
In regards to color options, Retro-Bit couldn't have chosen a more perfect new color to add to the classic Saturn controller line-up. Whether intentional or not, there is a wonderfully nostalgic Sega vibe to this Clear Blue pad that has us recalling the blue skies and fantastic melodies of games like Daytona USA, Virtua Fighter, NiGHTS, and Sonic the Hedgehog.
In addition to Clear Blue, other colors in the 2.4 Ghz Wireless Saturn series include Classic Black, (resembling the Western Saturn console release), and also Slate Gray and White (reminiscent of their Japanese console variant counterparts as well). Clear Blue however, is the only brand new color addition to the classic line-up, and it is truly a sight to behold.
The translucent blue plastic allows for viewing of the board and electronics inside, and it can be easy to get lost in turning the controller every-which-way to get the best look at the beautifully designed electronic world harbored inside.
-Packaging-
The packaging of the new Saturn controllers also has the same great attention to detail that the controllers do. The outer box has a sturdy feel, and has high quality printing throughout, with nice silver and glossy embellishments that really capture, and elevate the spirit of the original packaging.
The 2.4 Ghz Wireless Saturn pads also come in an 'I ❤️ レトロ' (I Love Retro) deluxe storage case with a light blue see-through lid that also houses the instructions, a micro-usb charging cable, and 2 wireless receivers.
Conclusion
Retro-Bit has succeeded in a bringing a classic, and beloved gaming form-factor to life once again not only for retro gamers, but for a brand new audience as well. Veteran gamers that want to breathe some new wireless life into their original Saturn hardware with classic and exciting new colors will feel right at home with one of these new controllers, and younger gamers who are interested in experiencing retro-classics for the first time with a tried and true form factor, but with the convenience of modern wireless technology will also have their retro-gaming bases covered with this fantastic range of controllers.
(*Along with playing on classic hardware, The Sega Ages releases on Nintendo Switch are a wonderful pairing with these pads!)
What is your favorite color and model of this beloved retro gaming controller?
Visit Retro-Bit's Amazon store for more information on their wired USB, Bluetooth, and 2.4 Ghz Wireless controllers for the Sega Saturn and Sega Genesis.
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