Tech Up! Game Devil Switch Pro-S Controller Wireless Review

Looking at the box, the first immediate difference between the Pro-S Controller and the official Pro pad is the stick layout. Foregoing the Switch standard of upper left stick, lower right, the one on show here more closely resembles the PlayStation side-by-side layout; a certain boom for those more familiar with that layout. The second big change would be the formation of the middle row of buttons; here formed into a V-shape. Plus and Minus are within easy reach, although now raised higher to prevent accidental presses, and the Home button now takes front and centre placing on the pad. The screenshot button is between that and the Plus button, but now opposite it is the new Turbo function, a classic addition to most Third Party controllers. This works in a similar way to those by supercharging the last button pressed, and can be a very handy cheating tool for games that require such an input.

Opening the box reveals the Pro-S Controller itself, a lengthy USB-C to USB cable for recharging purposes, an instruction booklet giving a very brief overview of the hardware, and a small set of interchangeable d-pads, leading right into the biggest potential selling point of this accessory - the directional inputs.

Despite the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller easily being one of the most comfortable ways to do gaming on the go, there have been mixed impressions on the quality of the d-pad. There have even been a number of users stating an awkward stiffness to its shape and presses, and incorrect directional responses during gameplay. With an ever-increasing number of 2D-focused games hitting the eShop, the option for a strong d-pad is present… but it is not quite fulfilled here, sadly. Whilst the Pro-S Controller has a considerable advantage with multiple options for the look and feel of the d-pad - and all three are much softer and satisfying to press than the official model - the awkward responsiveness in the game is the same, particularly during intense play. A down press can too easily become down-right, for instance. Whilst notably better than Nintendo's input, this d-pad still has its issues.

In the hands, the Pro-S Controller is very pleasant to hold and grip, particularly for those with larger paws. A textured matte surface adorns the controller to help avoid unsightly fingerprints, and a rubbery cover on the grip point reduces the slip of potentially sweaty palms. The Pro-S Controller does feature analogue L2 and R2 triggers, as opposed to the standard digital ones the Switch uses overall, which doesn't provide any extra functionality but does provide more flexibility for the fingers when gripping.

What the Pro-S Controller has in extras cosmetically, there are a comparable number of hardware functions missing when compared to the official model. Motion Control is a very notable omission in particular, with popular games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Splatoon 2 using this feature for puzzles and fine-tune-aiming, respectively. There is rumble, and particularly strong rumble at that, but the standard implementation can't hope to match the intricate application of HD rumble in the games that use it well, like Super Mario Odyssey, Golf Story and Tumbleseed. Lastly, there is no Near Field Communication support, ergo no amiibo usage, which will be likely more of a benefit to those that don't use Nintendo's small figurines. Restrictive patents could very likely be the reason for these missing features, particularly with HD Rumble, and the lesser functionality is reflected in the far lower asking price for the Pro-S Controller.

When fully connected to a Switch unit, the Pro-S Controller keeps a strong and steady connection, and the battery is strong enough to last between 10-15 hours, approximately, on a full recharge. Connecting the thing up in the first place is slightly problematic, though, as the Pro-S cannot wake the Switch from Sleep mode, only establishing a network when the console is fully active.

Game support is a concern at present, also. Whilst the Pro-S Controller makes for a superb first and second controller in games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Rocket League, it does not work as the first player in Super Bomberman R. Whether it is compatibility issues on the Switch software side or with the controller hardware is yet to be seen. Despite the missing features and connection complications, however, the Pro-S Controller is quite viable as a cheaper second controller purchase, and could quite easily make a strong name for itself when Switch eventually hosts retro Nintendo content.

7/10

Very Good - Bronze Award

A very competent attempt at a Switch Pro Controller alternative, the Pro-S loses notable functionality in both hardware and games compatibility, but offers more comfort and directional input options at a much cheaper price point. One to keep an eye on for when a potential Virtual Console appears on Nintendo Switch.