This Switch 2 sequel accessory was a few millimeters away from being good
Crkd’s Nitro Deck 2 is a Switch accessory that replaces the Joy-Con and works with both the original Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. A hands-on review finds that, despite improved sticks and extra features, its button layout and mounting design make it less appealing than the original.
The right stick sits so close to the ABXY buttons that pressing them quickly feels uncomfortable. A twisting vice-grip mechanism enables compatibility with both consoles, but feels less secure than the original’s slide-in design, although the reviewer’s Switch 2 did not wobble during testing. The Deck 2 offers adjustable stick tension, a more comfortable grip and five extra programmable buttons, but the reviewer suggests considering other comfort accessories or a separate wireless controller.
In short
- The right stick crowds the face buttons.
- A clever mount feels less secure than the original.
- Adjustable sticks and extra buttons are welcome features.
Explained simply
The Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 are handheld game consoles that can also connect to a television. Both use detachable controllers called Joy-Con, which can be replaced by accessories designed to make handheld play more comfortable or offer different controls.
Crkd’s Nitro Deck is one such accessory: the console fits into it, with built-in controls taking the place of the Joy-Con. The newer model is designed to fit both Switch generations, whose different shapes and sizes affect how accessories attach.
For players, the position of buttons and the security of the fit can matter as much as extra features, especially during longer sessions. The Nitro Deck 2’s design raises questions about how to balance compatibility and added controls with comfort and ease of use.