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Review on ๐ŸŽฎ Retro-Bit Official Sega Genesis USB Controller: Arcade Pad for Sega Genesis Mini, Switch, PC, Mac, Steam, RetroPie, Raspberry Pi - Clear Blue by Joshua Albright

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Old soul in new body

As a seasoned collector of retro games, I want to clarify that I have many official releases of SEGA systems, games and especially their legendary controllers. SEGA controllers have always had a nice bold feel with a semi-glossy/matte feel, a very special dot in between. Officially licensed by SEGA, this RetroBit controller is as modern as can be. The feel is almost the same as the original 6-button pads, but also slightly different in texture to meet today's needs. At first glance, the controller looks identical, but upon closer inspection, the added "Mode" button below the START button is very interesting. This was done to add two shoulder buttons (L/R) for modern use on PC and any system that can use these functions. When you hold the controllers, the buttons feel almost the same as the original 6-button pads, but slightly different, likely due to the difference in age and quality of the rubber used in the new controllers. The buttons are responsive and pleasant to press, but at the same time have a new feel. The L/R buttons are a bit odd at first, but then the soft but clicky feel becomes satisfying. All in all they are fantastic for a SEGA USB controller. The feel closely mimics what it would be like if you owned a brand new device, and the interface has been updated for modern use. I would give a near perfect rating were it not for the disappointment that unfortunately they are not compatible with my Nintendo Switch for my Genesis Classics (or Sonic Mania) collection or with my XBOX1 which I find absolutely embarrassing. Hopefully this will be looked into by either RetroBit or console companies in the future.

Pros
  • Neat performance
Cons
  • Modern