Manufacturer | Nintendo |
---|---|
Type | Gamepad |
Generation | Eighth |
Release date | November 18, 2012 |
Input |
|
Connectivity | Bluetooth |
Power | 1300 mAh, Mini USB B connector (recharge) |
Predecessor | Wii Remote ( Plus) and Classic Controller ( Pro) |
Successor | Nintendo Switch Pro Controller |
The Wii U Pro Controller (Wii U PRO コントローラー) is a video game controller produced by Nintendo for the Wii U video game console. It is available in Black and White. It is the successor to the Wii Classic Controller and has the same buttons but with the added features of a power button, and pressable analog sticks. In 2013, a year since the Wii U's release, a hacking website Hackaday found a way to use a Wii U Pro Controller and Wii U GamePad on PC. [1]
In 2017, the Wii U and the Wii U Pro Controller was discontinued, however, some 3rd party outlets still sold them until 2019.[ citation needed]
Nintendo unveiled the Wii U Pro Controller at E3 2012. [2] Many video game journalists have noted the similarity between the controller and Microsoft's Xbox 360 Controller. [3] [4] In 2016, a 3rd party controller was released by Hori as a " Pokken Tournament Gamepad" However, it is only available in Japan. [5]
The controller functions as a secondary controller released for the console, available separately. The Wii U system can be connected to up to four Wii U Pro Controllers at one time, however Super Smash Bros. for Wii U allows the usage of more than 4. [6] It features standard analog sticks (that can now be pressed in) and face buttons. Like the Wii U GamePad and Classic Controller Pro and unlike other eighth generation controllers (i.e., the DualShock 4 and the Xbox One Controller), the triggers are digital (i.e., not analog).
The Wii U Pro Controller uses the same 1300 mAh CTR-003 battery found in the Nintendo 3DS and 2DS, [7] [8] which can last up to 80 hours before needing to be recharged. [9] The charging cable could be plugged into any USB port 5V ~1A.
Nintendo states that the design of the Pro Controller is an "enhanced version" of the Wii's Classic Controller and "offers a richer experience". [10] Certain games with flexible control schemes, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops II and Trine 2: Director's Cut, are also compatible with the Classic Controller. The Wii U Pro Controller is not compatible with previous-generation Wii games. [11]