A good controller adds to the fun of a gaming system, no matter what system it is. Whether you are running a software emulator or playing on the latest hardware, different games simply work best with different controllers. That is where the Hyperkin Pixel Art Limited Edition Controller comes into play. In my case, I’ve been testing the “Hot Dog” edition—a retro, multi-platform controller that features a pixel-perfect Oscar Mayer design. It’s a device that attempts to bridge the gap between 1990s nostalgia and 2020s functionality.

When I was a kid, my family told me the only way I could get a Nintendo was if I sold off my Atari 2600 and all its games. At the time, it didn’t seem like that big of a deal, but I’ve held onto my consoles ever since—including niche oddities like the OnLive console and the Ouya. While it is fun to play old systems with original hardware, it can be just as much fun playing classic games on newer systems using modern, user-friendly controllers. This is where the Pixel Art shines. It taps into that specific nostalgia—for me, it’s the memory of seeing the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile touring the US at car shows and conventions. Having a controller that pays homage to that slice of Americana makes it a genuine display piece. I’m already looking for a dedicated spot to display it, though I bet I’ll be using it too much to leave it on the shelf.

Hyperkin has designed this to be a “best of both worlds” peripheral. It keeps the flat, rectangular form factor you want for a classic NES or SNES platformer, but modernizes the layout significantly. Unlike the limited inputs of the 8-bit era, this controller features dual symmetrical analog sticks and four shoulder triggers (L1/L2, R1/R2), mimicking the layout of a modern Xbox or PlayStation controller. This button density means you aren’t restricted to simple platformers; you can play modern 3D titles too. It also supports both wired USB-C connections and wireless Bluetooth 5.1, ensuring low latency regardless of how you choose to play.

I put the controller to the test with ToeJam & Earl, a title I’ve loved for years and own across multiple platforms. Playing it with this controller felt incredibly natural—the buttons are exactly where you want them for that retro feel. But the real magic is the versatility. Because of the Bluetooth connectivity and modern stick layout, I can use this “Hot Dog with Mustard” controller across a massive range of devices including the Nintendo Switch family (OLED, Lite, and standard), mobile devices on iOS and Android, PC, Mac, and even smart devices like tablets or a Raspberry Pi. It even features a modern “Share” button for the Switch and Turbo functionality, which is a lifesaver for older arcade shooters.

The Hyperkin Pixel Art controller is more than just a universal gamepad; it’s an artistic statement. Hyperkin is marketing these as true “Limited Editions”—once they are sold out, they aren’t coming back. It is a controller that looks cool, feeds your nostalgia, and can do just about anything you ask of it, from emulating NES classics to playing on your phone. If you are a collector who actually likes to use their collection, this is a must-have.

Overall Rating 4 out of 5

Pros:

• Excellent, eye-catching Pixel Art aesthetics (Oscar Mayer, Heinz, Tetris options).
• Huge compatibility list (Switch, PC, Mobile).
• Modern touches including dual sticks, 4 triggers, and USB-C.
• Solid battery life of approximately 15-20 hours.

Cons:

• Limited availability means once they’re gone, they’re gone.
• Flat ergonomics might not be ideal for competitive modern shooters.