8BitDo Arcade Controller: I Didn’t Think I’d Stick With It

I’ve had the 8BitDo Arcade Controller for a few days now, and it’s already challenged my expectations. Out of the box, it didn’t feel great. The keycaps were flat, the stock switches didn’t give me the feedback I wanted, and I genuinely thought I’d shelf it after one session. But after swapping in Shadow Hunting switches from Haute42 and putting real time into Tekken 8, and a bit of Street Fighter 6, something shifted. The feel improved, the layout started to make more sense in practice, and more importantly, the wireless convenience kept winning me over.

This video is a practical verdict based on real usage. I go over what changed my mind, how it compares to the Haute42 R16 I’ve been using regularly, and what surprised me about using this controller in actual matches. I talk through the button layout, spacing, build quality, rubber base, wireless performance, and how it sits on the desk and on my lap during play. I also cover the software limitations, lack of PS5 compatibility, how the macros work, and the weird separation between XInput and Switch profiles. This isn’t just about the Shadow Hunting switch mod, although that definitely helped. It’s about the small details that matter once you actually start using the thing.

If you’re considering buying the 8BitDo Arcade Controller, curious about leverless controllers, or wondering whether a modded budget stick can compete with something like the Haute42 R16, this should help. Whether you play Tekken, Street Fighter, or just want a clean wireless setup for Switch or PC, this is what I’ve learned from using it for more than just a few matches. #8BitDoArcadeController #HitboxStyleController #LeverlessController

🛜 Other platforms
• 📱 https://www.tiktok.com/carbdelivery
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💳💸 Equipment used in this video
• 📷 Sony FX30 (camera body) + Sigma f/1.4 16mm (camera lens)
• 🎙️ RODE Wireless GO II
• 👨🏽‍💻 MacBook Pro M4 Max
• 💡 Amaran 100d S
• 💡 Amaran Light Dome Mini SE
• 💡 Manfrotto 1005BAC
• 💡 2x Godox M1 RGB Mini
• 💡 Elgato Key Light mini
• 📖 Elgato Prompter
• ⌨️ Wooting 60he
• 🖱️ Keychron M3 Mini Black 4000 Hz

👷🏽‍♂️ Software used
• 📼 Final Cut Pro 11
• 🎙️ Audacity
• 🎞️ Photoshop 2025