8BitDo brings Bluetooth connectivity and Hall effect joysticks to Nintendo GameCube controllers for under $30 with new release

8BitDo is having a Nintendo GameCube moment this month. On the one hand, the company has just released the NGC Retro Receiver (curr. $24.99 on Amazon) that opens up the GameCube and original Wii to use with countless third-party wireless controllers. On the other hand, it has also introduced a simple way to modify the original GameCube controller with several quality-of-life improvements.

Principally, the Mod Kit for Original NGC Controller converts the wired GameCube controller into a Bluetooth controller. Thus, 8BitDo's mod kit arguably makes the wired controller more versatile than the WaveBird, which relies upon a proprietary 2.4 GHz connection. On top of that, the mod kit introduces USB Type-C connectivity, which is there to recharge a modest 300 mAh battery that 8BitDo rates for up to six hours of playtime.

Moreover, the Mod Kit for Original NGC Controller brings Hall effect joysticks to Nintendo's first-party GameCube controller. Theoretically, these should provide improved durability and accuracy when gaming compared to Nintendo's original joysticks. As it stands, 8BitDo hopes to begin fulfilling pre-orders on September 25, which can be placed now for $25.98. Please see the company's product page for further details.