HORI Battle Pad (Pikachu) GameCube Controller

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This HORI Controller makes you want to main Pikachu.

I received this GameCube controller as a surprise gift this past Christmas. I was immediately impressed by the design and feel of it, and I knew that there was no going back to classic GameCube controllers. These HORI GameCube controllers are super light weight. They are lighter than Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers, PDP Wired Fight Pads, and even original GameCube controllers.

I am a huge fan of Super Smash Bros Ultimate, and I play several hours a week. I dabble in ranked online play and attend local tournaments, so this controller gets a lot of use from me.

So, I guess if you are a person who likes heavier controllers, then this might not be for you. I personally like the feel of this controller. It is comfortable to hold for extended periods of time.

Slightly modified L and R Triggers and a Turbo Button.

The triggers on this controller are quite a bit different than normal GameCube Controllers. They are smoother and more slim. It may throw you off and take some getting used to, if you use them to jump in Smash Ultimate. I use my trigger to grab and shield, so the new style actually helped me.

The Turbo button allows you to tap once for multiple inputs. The Turbo button is not tournament legal, and so I did not get a lot of hands on time with it, but it’s there if you want it.

Another thing you may notice is the textured grips along the side of the controller. These are kind of cool and they help if you are eating pizza, or if your hands get sweaty.

Decent Durability and A Great Price Point.

It’s been 4 months since I started playing Super Smash Bros Ultimate, and I just recently purchased my second HORI controller.

This will tell you two things:

1) That I love the controller enough to buy a second one.

2) That the controller only lasted me 4 months.

I will re-iterate that I play a few hours per week on average. Some weeks I play 5-7 hours, and other weeks I barely play.

So what broke on the Hori Pikachu GameCube controller? 

The padding on my left thumb-stick began to peel off, and the yellow C-Stick padding completely ripped off. The controller was totally usable with the damage explained, but it wasn’t comfortable to use. This led me to buy another brand of controller, which I immediately found myself dissatisfied with. I then chose to drive out to Target and pick up a 2nd HORI Pikachu Gamecube controller. I’ve been using my new HORI controller ever since, and I will likely purchase a third when the time comes.

It only costs $24.99!

Compared to PS4 and Xbox One controllers, these HORI controllers are a complete steal. I guess you have to take into account that they are 3rd party, but still the price point is not bad. I’ve purchased both of my controllers from Target, as the local Gamestops do not seem to stock this particular brand, but you can also find this controller on Amazon.com.

USB Plug and Play for Nintendo Switch.

The HORI Pikachu Gamecube Controller plugs directly into the Nintendo Switch, so there is no need for an adaptor. I find this to be super convenient, because I can play Super Smash Bros Ultimate without having a clunky 3rd party adapter lying around. The controller also has pretty decent cord length.

The HORI GameCube controller is great for playing Smash Bros.

I totally recommend giving this controller a try. I’ve been happy with its performance in both friendlies and tournament play. Here is a bit more about the controller:

  • GameCube-style wired USB Controller with 10 ft. cable
  • Anti-snapback analog sticks and fast-action L/R & ZL/ZR Buttons
  • Toggle shoulder button functions
  • Turbo settings
  • Officially Licensed by Nintendo & Pokemon