Nitro Deck Creators CRKD Announce Collectible Stylish NEO S Controllers

Nine Designs That Are Looking Damn Fine!

One of the most unique Switch accessories of last year was the Nitro Deck, a controller designed for the Nintendo console that created a more Steam Deck-like form. It’s an option that’s been popular thanks to the ubiquitous nature and success of the Steam Deck; the inclusion of Hall Effect thumbsticks makes it a longer-term solution than most options. Using similar design philosophies, CRKD revealed the NEO S controller that features a rectangular design that’s uncommon for Switch controllers but packs some features that elevate it. 

A recent press release and an updated website reveal a tremendous amount of detailed marketing materials for this new controller series, complete with video assets, polished site visuals, and more. CRKD (pronounced as ‘cracked’ as said aloud in the NEO S Overview trailer) quickly struck a chord with players with their Nitro Deck so it’s fascinating to see the company continue to push the envelope when it comes to hardware design. 

Useable on Switch, PC, Mobile, and some Smart TVs through both Bluetooth and a wired USB-C connection, the NEO S controller most notably features Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers with adjustable actuation, something I hope every controller eventually adopts. This type of stick was designed to eliminate the dreaded stick drift nearly every first-party controller can succumb to. Stick tops can be swapped out quickly, allowing for taller options, concave, converse, and more.

The replaceable stick tops are even compatible with the Nitro Deck, adding an extra layer of usability for anyone who has already purchased a set. While the controller’s biggest distinction is its shape, there appear to be detailed design touches that elevate it compared to others at this price point – at least judging by the available materials. The textured grips, adjustable vibration settings, and overall look caught my attention immediately. Unless there’s some sort of egregious flaw, such as poor battery life or shoddy build quality, the NEO S looks to be a winner based on what’s been shown. 

Of course, gaming inputs all come down to preference. 

For collectors, the NEO S is supported by the CRKD True Collection System App on iOS and Android which allows users to quickly register their items, and note their rarity and batch number. While collecting in this fashion may seem a bit extraneous, the app also allows one to quickly remap their buttons and adjust other options, all by touching one’s device to the controller.

The NEO S controller’s flat design is said to have been chosen to enable more room for artwork and CRKD has first collaborated with POPeART for three of the nine. Those designs are Blossom, Junkyard, and Splatter, adding a bit of pop flair to the collection. Of course, most retro gamers will likely gravitate towards the transparent colors or the Retro Gold option which echoes the look of the Famicom console. Hopefully, CRKD will continue expanding the line’s looks to include more artist collaborations. Personally, I’d love to see a controller with the watercolors of Hector Trunnec or even classical artists like Vincent Van Gogh. That said, just about any indie game or notable franchise would look at home on this hardware. 

The NEO S Wireless Collectible Controller is available for pre-order at $49.99 and is expected to ship in April 2024 with nine designs to choose from.  Assets used in this article come courtesy of an official press kit.