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  1. Hardware
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Like some sort of handheld necromancer, this modder just transformed the Wii U Gamepad into a Switch Lite, and I both love and hate it

News
By Phil Hayton published 8 December 2025

Zombie-U has a whole new meaning.

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Switch Wii U Gamepad mod by KOUZEX with Splatoon gameplay on screen.
(Image credit: KOUZEX)
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I am a certified Wii U enjoyer, but I'm not remotely sad about the Wii U gamepad being dead and buried. So, when I happened upon a handheld modder's project that resurrects the cursed controller using a Switch Lite, it's safe to say I was equally horrified and fascinated.

Created by KOUZEX, the modder shows off their "Ultimate Switch U" console while detailing the process. As you can imagine, there's more to this project than shoving the Switch into a Wii U Gamepad shell, even if we are talking about the Lite version, as the YouTuber actually completely integrated the handheld's hardware with the controller's original buttons.

My own beef with the Wii U Gamepad side, this DIY switch has all the makings of something that could rival the best gaming handhelds. I'm personally not a fan of the layout, but I love the idea of a Nintendo handheld with full-size thumbsticks, not to mention the modder adds enhancements like Taki Udon's OLED display and a modchip (specifically the Raspberry Pi RP2040-based PicoFly).

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Watch On

These projects almost always involve an extreme amount of soldering and plenty of circuit board chopping. That is to say that this isn't a mod for the faint-hearted, but the end result is a handheld that runs everything your Nintendo Switch can, but boasts the same ergonomics as the Wii U pad. It's naturally going to feel nicer in the hands than the base Lite model, even if the high-up stick layout drives me bananas.

Image 1 of 2
Switch Wii U Gamepad mod with cover off and hands holding button board in front.
(Image credit: KOUZEX)
Switch Wii U Gamepad mod with Switch home screen displayed.
(Image credit: KOUZEX)

It's worth noting that this is very much a first attempt, and KOUZEX says they'll share a part 2 where they address issues like cart slot access and internal temps being five degrees higher than stock. In any case, I'll be following along with this project, even if it do fear it'll do a Frankenstein's monster and start demanding a wife.

  • Nintendo Switch handhelds at Amazon
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Maining Valve's portable? Check out the best Steam Deck accessories and best Steam Deck docks for excellent add-on recommendations. You'll also want to swing by the best retro consoles for ways to play the oldies on the go.

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Phil Hayton
Phil Hayton
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Hardware Editor

Phil is the Hardware Editor at GamesRadar+ who specializes in retro console setups, choosing the latest gaming handhelds, and navigating the choppy seas of using modern-day PC hardware. In the past, they have covered everything from retro gaming history to the latest gaming news, in-depth features, and tech advice for publications like TechRadar, The Daily Star, the BBC, PCGamesN, and Den of Geek. In their spare time, they pour hours into fixing old consoles, modding Game Boys, exploring ways to get the most out of the Steam Deck, and blasting old CRT TV visuals into their eye sockets.

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