Switch 2’s Flat Joy-Con Problem Solved With New Controller
▼ Summary
– The author previously criticized the Switch 2’s official Joy-Con 2 controllers for being awkward and uncomfortable to hold due to their thin design.
– Nyxi has announced the Hyperion 3 controller for the Switch 2, which addresses these ergonomic concerns but comes at a relatively high price.
– The Hyperion 3 is the first third-party Switch 2 controller to feature a magnetic connection to the console tablet, mimicking an official Joy-Con feature.
– Based on experience with its predecessor, the Hyperion 3’s design is expected to be a major ergonomic upgrade over the flat, cramp-inducing official Joy-Cons.
– Unlike some alternatives, the Hyperion 3 can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth for docked play in addition to working in handheld mode.
Finding a comfortable controller for the Switch 2’s notoriously flat Joy-Cons has been a challenge for many players. The official controllers, while sleek, lack the ergonomic contours that make extended handheld gaming sessions pleasant. A new third-party option, the Nyxi Hyperion 3, aims to solve this problem by offering a magnetic connection to the console itself, a feature no other third-party controller currently provides. This makes it a uniquely versatile accessory designed specifically for the Switch 2’s form factor.
During my initial review of the console, I pointed out how the thin, flat design of the Joy-Con 2 controllers felt awkward during portable play. I speculated then that a solution like the Nyxi Hyperion Pro, which I used extensively with the original Switch, would be necessary. Now, Nyxi has introduced the Hyperion 3, which is available for pre-order with shipments expected in March. It’s important to note, however, that this enhanced comfort and functionality comes at a premium price point.
The magnetic attachment is the Hyperion 3’s standout feature. While numerous third-party controllers exist for the Switch 2, they all lack the ability to connect directly to the console tablet. Controllers made for the original Switch also cannot interface with the new system’s design. This magnetic link means the Hyperion 3 is the first accessory of its kind that seamlessly transitions from a handheld attachment to a separate wireless controller, offering a unified experience that others cannot match.
Based on my extensive use of the Hyperion 2 for the original Switch, I have high expectations for the ergonomics of this new model. The official Joy-Cons, with their small buttons and flat backs, can lead to hand fatigue over time. The Hyperion 3 promises a more sculpted, comfortable grip that should alleviate this issue, living up to its marketing promise of a more hand-friendly design. Furthermore, its versatility extends beyond handheld mode. The controller utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless play when the console is docked, unlike some Joy-Con replacements that are restricted to portable use only. This dual functionality makes it a compelling all-in-one solution for Switch 2 owners seeking both comfort and convenience.
(Source: Ars Technica)
