The Nintendo Switch is one of Nintendo’s most successful consoles in history, and for good reason. The hybrid console has a stellar library and can be enjoyed anywhere. Still, it’s hard to ignore its downsides, especially with the Joy-Cons’ drift. Since buying Joy-Con replacements is so expensive, it’s only natural to look for alternatives, though many are simply cheap and poorly made.
NYXI’s Wizard, a wireless Nintendo Switch controller that resembles a GameCube Wavebird, is marketed as a nostalgic alternative to Joy-Cons. Despite being a 3rd party option, the Wizard offers many features and a comfortable design that makes this a competitive option.
Design and Layout
Players like myself who primarily grew up during the GameCube and Wii eras will instantly feel a connection to the NYXI Wizard. While it isn’t a one-to-one version of the GameCube controller, it features the same layout and a few additions to bring the controller into the modern era.
GameCube controllers can be used with the Switch as long as players own the adapter. Most players use these controllers for Super Smash Bros. Other games are compatible with GameCube controllers too, but if they need two triggers/bumpers on both sides, players will need an alternative. The GameCube controller only has three triggers/bumpers, but the NYXI Wizard remedies this with four, like most modern controllers.
If players have been playing with the traditional Switch controller button layout for years, it might take some time to get used to the face button layouts. The A button is a big circle in the middle, with a smaller B below it, and Y and X above. It may take hours to get used to the difference. Where you would normally press Y on a Switch controller, you will instead push X. Even GameCube vets might need to reacclimate themselves to the controller. Still, when players adjust, they will find that this is a comfortable controller.
The plastic itself does feel a little cheaper, but it also doesn’t feel like it is at risk of breaking. It just doesn’t feel like a premium controller, even though the layout, features, and buttons make it an excellent option.
Button Sensitivity and Ergonomics
The sensitivity of buttons, especially the shoulder buttons and D-pad, leaves a bit to be desired. They are responsive, but they don’t really have a satisfying click, and players can potentially press a button by accident. This will usually happen when players just want to press a face button once, but if the perfect amount of force isn’t used, a double input might be registered. Still, the buttons aren’t too light, even if they aren’t mechanical. It won’t take long for most players to adapt to the controller’s sensitivity.
The shoulder buttons/triggers are the opposite. They have a loud, audible click that makes it clear that they are being pressed. There won’t be any accidental presses. I found it difficult to play with this controller in handheld mode in public since it is so noisy compared to alternatives like the Hori Split Pad Pro. If players aren’t concerned about annoying those around them, then this won’t be an issue.
The D-pad isn’t as precise as the Hori Split Pad Pro, but it is an improvement over the Joy-Con. It’s large and looks like it would be precise, but the buttons feel a bit mushy and presses don’t feel as deep as you’d expect.
The NYXI Wizard is made for players with larger hands. This is a big controller and feels ergonomic in larger hands but might be a challenge for smaller hands. It’s bigger and heavier than the Hori Split Pad Pro, and much larger than the Joy-Con. Still, it’s incredibly comfortable, and I didn’t feel as much cramping during longer handheld sessions as I did with the Joy-Cons.
Functionality and Features
The NYXI Wizard extends beyond mere emulation of the GameCube layout. With programmable back-paddles, configurable turbo options, and LED indicators, the controller offers a range of features. The backlit buttons are a nice touch for when players are in the dark, especially as they are learning the ropes of the new layout. The programmable buttons are helpful for players who may want to tweak things and make the controller feel a little more traditional.
The Wizard comes with alternative joystick rings that vary in shape, including round and octagonal rings. The octagonal rings are useful for games that require specific stick inputs like fighting games but can feel rigid with other games. Switching the stick rings out is fairly simple and can be done in seconds once players get used to the process.
Every feature one would expect from Joy-Cons is present in the NYXI Wizard. Gyro controls work well, with a nice sensitivity that’s great for shooters. The controller features vibration, although it doesn’t feel as great as the Joy-Cons. Still, many third-party controllers are missing vibrating functions, so I’ll take it. The controller can wake the Switch, which is convenient for lazy gamers like myself. The two sides of the Wizard can be snapped into the side of the Switch for handheld play or connected to a controller base, creating a traditional controller for docked play. It’s nice that these controllers can charge with the Switch while docked, ensuring that the controller never dies at a bad time.
The NYXI Wizard is a solid alternative to Joy-Cons. As a standalone controller, I still find myself preferring the Pro Controller, but as a Joy-Con replacement, it’s hard to find something much better. The Hori Split-Pad is missing some features that the Wizard offers, and the Joy-Cons simply aren’t as comfortable. It’s a great wireless option for fans of fighting games and an even better alternative to other controllers for those with medium to large hands.
The NYXI Wizard can be purchased on NYXI’s website here.
