To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) launch in North America, gaming accessory manufacturer 8BitDo has introduced a special NES40 collection. The range features updated versions of three popular products: the Ultimate 2 wireless controller, the Retro 68 Keyboard N Edition, and the Retro Cube 2 Speaker N Edition.
Updated controller pays homage to the NES design
The NES40 version of 8BitDo’s Ultimate 2 wireless controller retains the same functionality as the original but sports a refreshed, retro-inspired design. The controller now features a black-and-grey colour scheme with bright red buttons and a matching charging dock reminiscent of the classic NES console.
The new edition also includes four interchangeable joystick caps, with grips printed with dates that commemorate significant Nintendo and 8BitDo product launches. Performance-wise, it remains identical to the previous model, including TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and colour-changing LED rings around each joystick.
Additional features include reprogrammable bumper buttons, extra back buttons, and compatibility with the Switch, Switch 2, and Windows devices. Each unit comes with 8BitDo’s Retro Receiver for wireless connectivity to an original NES and a 2.4GHz adapter for faster, lag-free gaming.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller – N40 is available for preorder from today, priced at US$79.99. The controller will officially launch on 15 November 2025 and will be limited to just 1,985 units, paying tribute to the NES’s original 1985 release year.
Retro keyboard receives premium materials and major upgrades
While the new controller’s changes are largely aesthetic, the updated keyboard in the NES40 collection offers a mix of visual nostalgia and internal upgrades. The 8BitDo Retro 68 Keyboard N40 is slightly smaller than its predecessor, featuring a 68-key layout instead of 87, yet it maintains a design that strongly resembles the original.
The entire keyboard, from its shell and keycaps to its buttons, is now constructed from aluminium alloy, giving it a solid, durable build. Inside, 8BitDo has swapped out Kailh’s Box White V2 clicky switches for its own linear Box Ice Cream Pro Max switches, delivering a smoother typing experience.
A larger 6,500mAh battery allows for up to 300 hours of use between charges, a significant improvement from earlier models. The keyboard also includes 8BitDo’s signature oversized programmable Super Buttons, which now connect wirelessly instead of via a 3.5mm cable.
Weighing in at 2,200 grams, the new model is more than twice as heavy as the original Retro 87 keyboard. It also carries a higher price tag, retailing at US$499.99 compared to the original’s US$99.99 launch price in 2023. Preorders open today, with shipping expected in January 2026.
Speaker upgrade combines nostalgia with modern performance
The third product in the NES40 line is the Retro Cube 2 Speaker N Edition, which closely resembles 8BitDo’s long-standing NES-themed Retro Cube Speaker first released in 2016. However, this new version introduces several notable upgrades.
It now features dual stereo speakers, dedicated music and gaming sound modes, and a built-in microphone. The 2,000mAh battery offers up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge. Connectivity options have been enhanced, with users able to switch from Bluetooth to a 2.4GHz connection via an included dongle.
In addition, the USB port has been upgraded from Micro USB to USB-C, and the speaker supports wireless charging through a new dock included in the package.
Originally priced at US$35, the updated Retro Cube 2 Speaker N Edition is available for preorder starting today for US$49.99. The official release date is set for 8 December 2025.
