Abxylute has initiated a Kickstarter campaign for its upcoming N6 and GameCube-style N9C Switch 2 dock-style controllers. These controllers are designed as alternatives for users who find Nintendo’s Joy-Cons uncomfortable, especially those with medium to large hands.
Both new Abxylute controllers feature larger, more comfortable grips compared to Joy-Cons, and include durable Hall effect joysticks. A functional prototype of the N6 was tested, revealing a comprehensive set of features aimed at enhancing the gaming experience. These include full-size sticks, vibration, motion controls, customizable back paddles, and a turbo mode for rapid command input.
The N6’s slide-in design is not a novel concept; CRKD previously popularized this form factor with the original Switch, which added substantial grips to make the console resemble a Steam Deck. This design also addressed Joy-Con drift issues by incorporating Hall effect sticks. The N6 largely follows this successful formula, featuring full-size, grippier Hall effect joysticks with concave tops for improved thumb comfort. It also includes thick grips that wrap around the console’s back, allowing for a more natural hand position, and larger triggers with enhanced tactile feedback.
While the design adds grip to the back of the console, it does not increase the surface area on the front. Additionally, the exposed edges of the Switch 2 protruding from the controller appear somewhat awkward.
However, the N6 prototype does not feel as significant an upgrade over standard Joy-Cons as the Nitro Deck. For users with medium-sized hands, the left and right sticks are positioned too low for comfortable access when gripping the controller fully. This makes reaching the D-pad and other system buttons below the sticks particularly challenging, and individuals with larger hands might experience even greater difficulty.
Users with smaller hands, or those who primarily play games that do not demand quick reactions, might not encounter these issues. While the N6 is capable of handling fast reactions, the grip did not inspire confidence for executing precise, rapid commands.
Ergonomic improvements could be achieved if Abxylute extended the height of the controller’s left and right sides and spaced out the sticks and buttons. This adjustment would allow a broader range of users to comfortably grip the N6 without difficulty reaching controls. In its current form, some games necessitate an awkward claw grip. Taller controls would also provide coverage for the top left and top right edges of the Switch 2, which are currently exposed by the N6’s design.
1/4The natural resting position for the thumb often aligns with the Joy-Con’s joystick placement.
Several aspects of the N6 are still under development. The rumble feedback is strong, not aiming for HD rumble, but is not unsatisfactory. The buttons and triggers produce very pronounced sounds, which could be disruptive in quiet environments.
Abxylute has proactively disclosed a list of known issues that are being addressed before the final release in April. This transparency is a positive step for a company seeking crowdfunding support:
- Shoulder Buttons (L/R): A louder clicking sound or slight wobble/instability may be present. Components are being optimized for a more comfortable feel.
- ABXY Buttons: Some units may exhibit stiffness, inconsistent travel, or a loud rebound sound. A new conductive silicone pad will be used in mass production for consistent, quiet, and comfortable presses.
- Vibration/Haptics: The motor is currently too aggressive/noisy and may miss subtle low-frequency vibrations. The driver is being tuned to resolve this.
- Cosmetics: For the Blue model, the silk-screen text on the back is currently too dark.
- Build Tolerance: Individual units may show slight inconsistencies in the feel of +/- buttons or a small gap on the right side. These will be tightened in production.
- The prototype receives firmware updates via its USB-C port (a female to male USB-C cable was included for updates). Mass production models will feature wireless OTA updates from a smartphone.
The N6 is priced at HK$ 618, approximately $80 USD, as an early backer special. Most of the limited allotment at this price point had already sold out at the time of publication. Regardless of potential price increases post-crowdfunding, this places it within the range of the $99.99 CRKD Nitro Deck 2, which is set to release this Spring and includes numerous additional features. Based on the experience with an early N6 prototype, the controller’s exposed console design and ergonomic challenges raise questions about its value proposition.
Photography by Cameron Faulkner / The Verge
