CRKD’s follow-up to the Nitro Deck is the NES-style Neo S controller

CRKD, creators of the beloved Nitro Deck Controller for Nintendo Switch, launched a new gamepad on Thursday that resembles what a modern NES controller might look like. The CRKD Neo S Wireless features Hall effect controllers, replaceable controller tops, and a retail price of $50. It works with Switch, PC, mobile devices and smart TVs.

The Bluetooth gamepad takes much of what made the Nitro Deck the “true and definitive form” of the Switch. It includes two controllers (both Hall Effect compatible with replaceable tops), a D-pad, four action buttons, triggers, mappable back buttons, and adjustable vibration.

The CRKD Neo S comes in various creative designs and colorways, many of which draw inspiration from Nintendo nostalgia. For example, the gold shade looks like Nintendo's. Play and watch and original Famicom with a familiar red and gold color scheme. Meanwhile, the clear Neo S is reminiscent of the transparent variants of the Nintendo 64 controller and Game Boy Color handheld console.

Three variations (Flower, Splatter, and Break) were designed by CRKD's creative director, POPeART. His work is inspired by the traditional Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic, based on the principles of imperfection, impermanence and incompleteness. Or, as POPeArt says, “Nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect.”

CRKD, which describes the controller as a “statement” and a “work of art”, hopes that you will buy the Neo S not only for playing games, but also as a collectible. In addition to the bold designs (nine will be available at launch), the company's mobile app will track your registered products, provide digital proof of ownership, and display the accessory's “rarity rank.” As attractive as the designs may be, it remains to be seen how many gamers will opt for a marketing tactic designed to entice you to buy additional controllers as a hobby.

Each Neo S variant costs $50. At the time of publication, they are scheduled to ship in April. The controller is available for Pre-order on the CRKD website.