
- STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY UPDATE
- STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY PRO
- STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY SOFTWARE
- STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY PC
The main question with any stick, though: How does it perform? When it comes to the 8BitDo Arcade Stick, the answer is wonderfully.

STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY SOFTWARE
You're able to download the software via the Microsoft Store as well so you can customize it even on your Xbox consoles.

However, they also function as RS and LS inputs by default.
STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY UPDATE
(For now, the software recognizes the stick but does not have customization options yet as it likely needs an update since it has not officially launched as of this review.) Like the Switch version, the two buttons on the top right are the only ones available for macro mapping. Inside the 8BitDo Arcade Stick-buttons, pins, PCB, lever gate.Īs with other 8BitDo controllers, you can tinker with the Arcade Stick's button mappings and create macros through Ultimate Software. You'll also see the 8-way joystick's square gate held in place with clips as it's not screwed in-if you wish to swap to a octogonal gate, it can be done easily. Inside you'll see the PCB and pins neatly laid out, and there's a little label to show the mirrored button arrangement to help when swapping out new buttons. The backplate (which has the weighted steel plate attached) is bolted on by six Philips head screws and easily comes off once they're loosened, which is a plus for modders. I suspect it was included as a feature for the Switch version with the idea of playing undocked or running through retro arcade games in mind, where the slight latency is not as much of a factor. There's also a 3.5mm audio jack on the board, a mute toggle, a toggle switch for the stick to act as left stick, right stick, or D-pad, and a button to activate turbo button inputs (which I'd never use anyway).Ī feature you don't get with the Xbox version of the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is Bluetooth, though this too is not a feature I'd use on a fight stick considering the latency. To charge the stick and/or play wired, you can use the included detachable 10-foot USB-C to USB type-A cord.

One thing to note is that it does not use Xbox's proprietary wireless technology, so you'll have to use the 2.4GHz USB dongle that comes with the stick. As expected, the buttons all match the platform, including the power button and the dedicated screenshot/video capture button found on the Series X|S controllers. With this version of the 8BitDo Arcade Stick being officially licensed for the Xbox platform, it comes with some small but nice features specifically for Xbox users (and it comes in either a black or white color scheme, same as the Xbox controllers). However, $120 USD for a high-quality fight stick with great wireless capability is still a solid deal, so if Xbox is your main fighting game platform, this one should be in top contention.
STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY PC
So if you're strictly a PC player (and don't mind the NES-inspired color scheme), you can get the previous iteration for cheaper and not miss out on much from a performance standpoint. The thing is, it's nearly identical to the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch and PC that came out two years ago. More importantly, it holds up in competitive environments when used wirelessly. Beyond that, it also has a number of features that round out the package, like simple toggles to switch input modes, a steel plate to give the compact box solid weight, and smart design choices for modding. I spent several hours using the new 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Xbox and PC and it performed fantastically-with springy buttons and a responsive joystick-which is the top priority of course. Personally, I find they just feel right-especially when using one like the 8BitDo Arcade Stick. Whether it be for ergonomics and comfort or for the advantage of swifter, more accurate command inputs, the right fight stick can be a game-changer.

STICK FIGHT GAMEPLAY PRO
And while modern fighting games are designed with gamepad controls in mind (and several pro players use a gamepad), virtually throwing hands with an arcade stick is still the preferred way for many. With the recent release of Street Fighter 6, and a new Tekken and Mortal Kombat on the way, it's safe to say fighting games are on the come up in 2023.
