Nintendo launches six-button Genesis controller for Switch, but only in Japan

Next month, Nintendo will give Switch Online subscribers the option to purchase Sega Genesis games as part of a DLC pack with N64 titles. And to make the experience as authentic as possible while playing them, the gaming giant is also selling N64 and Genesis wireless controllers exclusively to Switch Online subscribers. The gaming giant showcased a three-button Genesis controller during its last Direct stream in the west. Based on a Tweeter by Nintendo Japan, however, it will instead release a six-button version in its home country.

Nintendo confirmed Polygon that the six-button Genesis controller will be exclusively available in Japan. A Nintendo of America representative told the publication that “different regions make different decisions based on various factors” and that the three-button model was the most widely used and well-known version in the United States and Canada. . As the post notes, the three-button model came first, and the six-button one wasn’t released until fighting games exploded in popularity. Play titles like street fighter was easier with more buttons to mash. Note that the Sega Genesis Mini also launched with a three-button controller outside of Japan in 2019, while the Japanese version came with a six-button model.

Even if you find a way to import the controller only to Japan, it may be best to wait until other players have confirmed that it works with consoles in your region. Nintendo does not yet have a release date for the three-button model, but it will set you back $ 50 when it becomes available.