What the Best Controller Is for Smash Bros Ultimate
As with all fighting games, players each have their own way to play. The same rings true for Smash Bros Ultimate, as there are three different ways to play the game: the Joy Cons, Pro Controller, GameCube controller. With so many options to choose from, you’ll probably be wondering which option you should stick with. Let’s break down each option and find out what the best controller is for Smash Bros Ultimate.
Joy-Cons
The Nintendo Joy-Cons are probably most people’s go-to option because they are functional, simple, and most importantly, come with the console. Those who like playing the game in handheld mode will probably be spending most of their time playing with these controllers, and that’s perfectly fine.
The Joy-Cons are ergonomic, albeit a bit small in your hands if you detach them from the tablet. Moreover, these controllers don’t have the best button layout, especially for Smash veterans. When playing on handheld mode, however, the experience still feels great and you can still pull off your tricks and combos in Smash Bros Ultimate without having to worry about the Joy-Con breaking.
If you do decide to play on the big screen, you can simply attach your Joy-Cons to your handheld grip and play it like a normal controller. There are definitely better options, but you won’t need to pay the extra money and it’s pretty much the best way to play Smash Bros Ultimate on-the-go.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is a big step up from the Joy-Cons and definitely feels more traditional. It has a great design and feels great in your hand, whether they big or small. You won’t have to worry about any tangled wires either since it pairs wirelessly with the Switch.
Apart from using it for Smash Bros Ultimate, you can use this device to play other Switch games as well. It’s definitely a great investment in the long run, and you can even pick up the special Smash Bros Ultimate version if you really want that fancy Smash design.
While there’s very little qualms about its button layout, it can still feel a bit off when compared to the GameCube option. There could be a slight learning curve for some, but it isn’t much of an issue when playing Smash Bros Ultimate. Veterans will probably have no problem using this to play, but some might still prefer the OG Smash controller over this one.
GameCube Controller
Those looking for the authentic Smash experience can pick up the classic GameCube controller for Smash Bros Ultimate. Nintendo’s rolled out the same controller from Melee that you can connect to your Switch through an adapter.
Smash veterans definitely won’t have any issues with the classic button layout, and the device feels just as ergonomic as it did back in the day. The real issues lie with all of the wires you have to deal with as there is no Bluetooth or wireless option to connect it to the Switch.
Moreover, you will need to purchase a GameCube adapter to get this thing running, which might cost some extra cash and set you back more than your initial budget.
On top of that, you can’t exactly take your this device on-the-go since you can only use it when the system is docked. You probably won’t be lugging around with you during your daily commute, but it’s still something to keep in mind. And unlike the Switch Pro Controller, this one only works with Smash Bros Ultimate.
What the Best Controller Is
Now that we’ve broken each factor down, the best (and most practical) controller for Smash Bros Ultimate has to be the Switch Pro Controller. You can use this controller for Smash and other games whether the Switch is docked or not.
You won’t need to deal with any adapters or loose cables when playing Smash Bros Ultimate either, which makes it easier to bring around with you. While the overall layout might feel different from its GameCube counterpart, it still plays exceptionally well. The only thing you’ll have to consider is your budget as opposed to playing the game with your Joy-Cons.
Regardless, there’s still no “wrong option,” and you can play Smash Bros Ultimate with whichever option suits your preference. That’s pretty much everything you need to know about the best controller for Smash Bros Ultimate. For more tips and tricks on the game, be sure to take a look at out expansive wiki guide.
Here are a few to get you started:
- How to Win the Food Race
- How to Unlock Smash Elite Mode and What It Does
- How to Do Codec Calls
- How to Play With Friends
TLDR;
Question: What’s the best controller for Super Smash Bros Ultimate?
Answer: The Switch Pro Controller. You won’t need to deal with any adapters or loose cables when playing Smash Bros Ultimate either, which makes it easier to bring around with you. While the overall layout might feel different from its GameCube counterpart, it still plays exceptionally well. The only thing you’ll have to consider is your budget as opposed to playing the game with your Joy-Cons.
