Known as the Nintendo 64 Switch controller, this gaming pad aims to deliver nostalgic fans a more authentic retro gaming experience. The controller features the same unmistakable look as the original N64 controller while updating the design with more modern features, such as wireless connectivity and improved rumble functionality. While the Switch peripheral was released in October, the stock for the N64 controller has already sold out. Unfortunately, it seems the prospects of finding one of these controllers look rather grim for the foreseeable future.
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Recently, it was revealed that the Nintendo 64 Switch controller will likely remain out of stock until 2022. This news comes from the US Nintendo Store website. The listing for the product indicates that it is sold out, and the web page also contains a notification. It reads, “More controllers will be available in 2022.” At the time of writing, it is unclear whether these retro gamepads will come back into stock earlier in other parts of the world. Despite being sold out on the UK Nintendo site, the notification isn’t displayed on there.
Unfortunately, this means that many players are stuck playing N64 games with other Switch compatible controllers, as buying one second-hand isn’t advisable. These retro N64 controllers are already selling for exorbitant prices on eBay. However, players could run into issues trying to play these classic games with other gamepads, as the layout and configuration of the N64 controllers are different compared to many other peripherals. This problem is compounded by the fact that the buttons for these games can’t be remapped presently.
This is just one of several issues Nintendo is facing regarding its new premium subscriber plan. Recently, the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack trailer reached over 100,000 dislikes on YouTube. This upgraded membership bumps up the price of the service by $30 a year. On top of this, gamers have reported problems with the quality of the emulations of these N64 games running on the Switch.
It will be interesting to see how this shortage affects Nintendo Switch Online’s Expansion Pack moving forward. Time will tell if the lack of Nintendo 64 Switch controllers impacts the number of subscribers the company can attract to the service.
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Source: Nintendo, IGN
