Nintendo Switch Online's recent upgrades are bringing with them the return of the divisive Nintendo 64 controller, but some attentive fans have noticed that the redesigned controller is not 100% accurate to the original. The changes are minor but will be very important for the controller's function on the Nintendo Switch console.
During the last Nintendo Direct, an expansion to Nintendo Switch Online's selection of classic games was announced that will bring Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis games to the platform. Alongside the announcement came the reveal of modern replicas of the original controllers.
The new version of the Nintendo 64 controller retains the original design but adds features more commonly seen on modern controllers, notably wireless connectivity. The additional buttons all appear to be located at the top of the controller and allow access to the Switch's Home menu, taking screenshots, synchronizing with the console and, confusingly, access to the ZR button standard on modern Nintendo controllers. It also appears to charge over USB-C.
The original Nintendo 64 controller is well known for its strange three-prong design, which was rather limiting for game developers; unlike the competing PlayStation controller, the Nintendo 64 controller was designed in such a way where the way the player held it impacted which buttons could be used. Holding it by the left prong would allow use of the D-pad and L button, while the center prong would access the analog stick and the Z button.
Nintendo is no stranger to omitting standardized buttons and experimenting with controller configurations; the original GameCube controller had a design with the B, X and Y buttons orbiting a large A button and only had one Z button. The Wii controller used a modular attachment system allowing for a multitude of configurations, and the Wii U implemented a full touchscreen into its standard controller. To see the ZR button added, especially in such a difficult to reach location, is a confusing decision as it is not needed in most cases. One likely reason for its inclusion is to allow for as many Nintendo Switch games as possible to be playable with the controller, even if the button's location is not ideal.
While the Nintendo 64 controller is somewhat divisive among fans, the choice by Nintendo to bring it back anyway even for the limited selection of games available is bold and will allow for a more authentic player experience. Like the official Switch NES and SNES controllers, the Nintendo 64 controller will be entirely optional for playing the games, so those who prefer a more modern control scheme can simply not purchase the controller.