8BitDo’s new collection celebrates the NES’s 40th anniversary
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The N40 edition of 8BitDo’s Ultimate 2 controller has primarily undergone aesthetic enhancements. It now sports a stylish black-and-gray design complemented by vivid red buttons, along with a charging dock that mirrors the iconic look of the NES console. This revamped controller comes with four exchangeable joystick caps, and the grips feature printed dates celebrating key launches from Nintendo and 8BitDo’s history.

In terms of functionality, it remains consistent with the original Ultimate 2. It still boasts TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and color-changing LED rings around each joystick’s base. Additionally, it features reprogrammable bumper buttons, extra buttons on the back, and is compatible with the Switch, Switch 2, and Windows devices. Priced at $79.99, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller – N40 is now available for preorder. It includes 8BitDo’s Retro Receiver for wireless NES connectivity and a 2.4GHz adapter for a faster gaming experience. It will officially launch on November 15, 2025, but only 1,985 units will be available.

The updates for the 8BitDo Retro 68 Keyboard N40 diverge significantly. While it’s slightly more compact than its predecessor due to a 68-key layout instead of 87, it closely resembles the original in appearance but features notable hardware improvements. The keyboard, including its shell, keycaps, and buttons, is crafted from aluminum alloy. Also, 8BitDo has transitioned from Kailh’s clicky Box White V2 switches to its smoother Box Ice Cream Pro Max switches. The Retro 68 also boasts a larger 6,500mAh battery, offering up to 300 hours of use between charges, and includes the original’s oversized programmable Super Buttons, which now connect wirelessly rather than via a 3.5mm cable.

Weighing in at a substantial 2,200 grams, the Retro 68 N40 keyboard is more than twice as heavy as its predecessor and significantly pricier. While the Retro 87 was introduced at $99.99 in 2023, the new Retro 68 is available for preorder at $499.99, with shipments anticipated in January 2026.

The 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker N Edition maintains the familiar appearance of the NES-themed Retro Cube Speaker first released in 2016. However, the new model features dual stereo speakers with dedicated music and gaming modes, a built-in microphone, and a larger 2,000mAh battery that delivers up to 30 hours of playtime on a full charge. Additionally, it offers the flexibility to switch from Bluetooth to a 2.4GHz connection using an included dongle. The USB port has been upgraded from Micro USB to USB-C, and the speaker can now be charged wirelessly with the new dock provided.

Originally launched nearly a decade ago at $35, the new Retro Cube 2 speaker is now available for preorder at $49.99, with an expected release date of December 8, 2025.

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