Modernised ‘Panda’ GameCube Controller Hits Kickstarter, Instantly Smashes Goal

Update: After just five days on Kickstarter, the Panda Controller has now amassed more than $1.2 million in funding from more than 9,000 backers. Wow.

Thanks to the incredible response, several stretch goals such as extended product warranties, a special documentary and limited edition shells for the controller have been unlocked. The campaign still has 25 days left to go if you’re interested in securing your own controller.

Original Article (Thu 2nd Dec, 2021 11:00 GMT): The GameCube controller is one of the most popular controller designs ever released, so much so that Nintendo still releases special edition pads for Smash players to this day. Unlike Xbox and PlayStation’s iconic controllers, though, the GameCube’s has never been truly updated or refined to modern standards.

That’s where the ‘Panda Controller’ comes in. Designed by Panda Hardware, this new controller hopes to offer players the modern, upgraded GameCube controller they’ve always hoped for. Using parts of the “highest quality” and coming packed with plenty of customisation options, this looks like it could be a very decent choice for pro players and those who still get plenty of use out of their old GameCube system.

We’d urge you to give the video below a watch if you want to see it in action.

A Kickstarter campaign for the project went live just yesterday with a goal of $100,000, a target that was absolutely demolished by eager customers within an hour. At the time of writing, the project has already raised more than $700,000 from over 5,500 backers – and there’s still almost an entire month to go.

The controllers, which can be used with original GameCube hardware or with modern systems via USB, are expected to start shipping around December 2022, with the lowest tier costing $90; if you want to get your hands on one as early as possible, make sure to head on over to that Kickstarter page to learn more.

Think you’ll be grabbing one of these? Do you like the design? Share your thoughts with us below.

Thanks to all who sent this in!