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A new Analogue 3D update has landed to help the N64 remake bolster its claim to the best retro console throne. It's packed full of enhancements that target everything from timing accuracy to adding a total playtime counter to the library, and it even adds compatibility for Nintendo's very own Switch Online N64 controller. However, I'm going to be a gamepad party pooper and say, while adding support is a nice touch, there are plenty of compatible controllers I'd recommend over Ninty's "exclusive" accessory.
If you have already made up your mind on pairing your Analogue 3D with the Switch Online controller, feel free to grab one for $54.99 at Nintendo. Look, while it's not my first choice, it's far from being terrible if you're looking for something authentic with wireless features. That said, I actually gave mine to a friend after realizing I'd rather use an OG pad, and since then, I've tested plenty of better alternatives.
My go-to gamepad for the Analogue 3D and even my original HDMI-modded Nintendo 64 is, perhaps unsurprisingly, the console's very own 8Bitdo N64 controller. Hardly a shocker since it was designed specifically for the FPGA system, but it's a winner given its tremendously accurate thumbstick, authentic button layout, wireless abilities, and the fact that it usually goes for $34.99 at the likes of Amazon (the prettier grey version is $44.99)
Before you start writing that angry email, let it be known that I get your Trident-shaped preferences. If you can't imagine yourself running through Termina using anything but the spaceship-shaped OG gamepad, you'll be pleased to hear Analogue's 3DOS 1.2.0 update also enhances 8Bitdo Mod Kit support. If you're already using the $39.99 wireless kit, you'll now be able to easily switch between the Virtual Controller Pak and Rumble Pak using the ZR button.
That kit is pretty neat if you want to cut the cord, but you can also add just a hall-effect joystick to your original N64 controller for less. The mod itself is incredibly straightforward, and having tested the stick parameters firsthand, I can confirm it's just as accurate as the real deal. Plus, it'll only set you back $14.50, which is a chunk cheaper than Ninty's new pad.
I'll probably try to get the NSO N64 controller back just to see how it holds up in 2026. However, the last time it graced my palms, I found that its stick was slightly too sensitive in the likes of 007 Goldeneye, and while the build quality was up to Ninty standards, I could tell the difference. Having now been spoiled by my own original pad and the Analogue 3D version, the only reason I can think to revisit the Switch Online accessory is the authentic optical-mechanical stick, just for the way it'd physically feel under the thumb when technically brand new.
In addition to the new gamepad support, the 1.2.0 update resolves lots of technical Analogue 3D quirks that should satiate purists. You can view the full patch notes at the console's site, but they largely address the FPGA chip and how it mimics CPU timing and functionality, which may matter to speed runners or developers who need flawless accuracy.
In terms of features, Analogue has added a "Force Progressive Output" to its settings menu that will switch interlaced graphics to progressive scan. The option basically lets the console use a straight 480p image in games like Turok 2 rather than applying de-interlacing, in turn resulting in "superior image quality."
The other standout upgrade is less technical, as it simply adds playtime stats to the 3D's library. Basically, I now get to feel ashamed at how long my current Donkey Kong 64 playthrough is taking me, but it's still a nice extra that'll help you see when you started a game and how long you've actually been playing.
I suspect this won't be remotely the last time I'll be talking about the Analogue 3D, but when it comes to NSO N64 controller support, just know I welcome it with open arms. It'd be neat to see gamepad compatibility expanded further, and while I'm not short on options to recommend, I'll share more as they cross my grubby '90s gamer mitts.
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