To me personally, there is nothing quite like opening up an old video game, flipping through the instruction manual, inserting it into the original system it was meant to run on, and relaxing with a powerful dose of nostalgia. In many cases, I also enjoy experiencing games I never had the chance to play back in the day.

One of the biggest obstacles to truly enjoying retro gaming in today’s world is dealing with outdated controllers. This is where Retro Fighters steps in to make a difference.

With modern controller designs largely standardized around the Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch Pro controllers, anything that breaks from that mold feels awkward—especially older designs that tried to be different.

Take the Sega Dreamcast controller, for instance. While I have a deep appreciation for the console itself, the original controller just doesn’t feel comfortable or ergonomic to me anymore. I could go on at length about its flaws, but I know I’m not the only one who feels this way.

Even controllers I hold dear, like those from the Nintendo 64 and GameCube, don’t feel as intuitive as they once did. And if you want to share the experience with your kids, partner, or friends who didn’t grow up with these systems, unfamiliar control layouts can be an instant turnoff.

Another issue is that most original controllers were wired, which doesn’t fit well with today’s living room setups where the couch is often several feet away from the TV or entertainment center.

The Retro Fighters Controller Lineup ------------------------------------

Retro Fighters likely has a controller solution for nearly every classic console you might own. I’ve bought their versions for the Nintendo 64, GameCube, Sega Dreamcast (multiple times), and PlayStation. They've also sent me some of their newer models, including a compact six-button Dreamcast controller, an updated GameCube controller, and their original Xbox-style controller. Most of these work seamlessly on PC via USB dongle or Bluetooth, and even pair nicely with devices like the Nintendo Switch.

Their GameCube controllers, such as the BattlerGC Pro—which works with original hardware and PCs—have already received firmware updates to support the upcoming Switch 2.

As a result, my collection of Retro Fighters controllers has grown significantly alongside my game library. At this point, unless there's a compatible Retro Fighters controller available, I rarely bother powering up certain consoles. That probably leaves my Super Nintendo feeling a bit neglected, but that’s just how it is.

Among the ones I own, the wireless Dreamcast StrikerDC and the original Xbox Hunter stand out the most. The Brawler64, styled after the N64 controller, is another favorite. Both the Dreamcast and N64 controllers feature slots in their dongles for VMUs or memory cards, since the originals plugged those directly into the back of the controllers.

Given how many I own, I tend to switch between genres and platforms often. I'm no expert on any specific game type, so while I can't comment deeply on how the D6 Dreamcast controller holds up in fighting games, what I’ve played feels great. It’s their latest model, and one I’ve been able to test firsthand.

Since the Dreamcast lacks XYZ buttons, they’re mapped to L and R by default, making fighting games much more manageable. It always felt strange using triggers for basic moves like punches and kicks before. The D6 also shines in 2D titles like shoot 'em ups thanks to its responsive, clicky d-pad.

Final Verdict—Retro Fighters Controllers Are Essential ------------------------------------------------------

When I first came across Retro Fighters years ago, it was a revelation. These controllers are clearly made with passion and precision, giving new life to vintage consoles. I can connect my Dreamcast to a Retrotink HDMI scaler in the living room, sit back on the couch, and play all my favorite games wirelessly on original hardware. Or I can pop in The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King on PS2 and enjoy local co-op with a friend without worrying about tangled wires.

Retro Fighters controllers feel like magic—they truly revive classic consoles and make them feel relevant again.

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Disclosure: Retro Fighters provided me with several of their latest controllers to help with this coverage. I was also a Kickstarter supporter of their very first Dreamcast controller years ago, though I’ve purchased most of their lineup myself.

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