Review: The GameSir Super Nova – An Affordable Hall Effect Controller

Okay, so here’s the rundown on this new gaming gizmo called the GameSir Super Nova, right? It’s fresh off the line from some company over in China that seems to be collecting figurative gold stars for crafting decent controllers while keeping your wallet unscathed. They’ve hit the nail on the head—again, with this one—offering up a device loaded with Hall Effect sticks (whatever those are) and a robust design that you’d expect to cost quite a bit more.

It’s compatible across Windows, iOS, Android, and it even moonlights as a Switch controller. However, if you’re an Xbox die-hard, you’re out of luck. Anyway, while I was testing, the Super Nova turned out to be a real trooper. No Xbox support, yeah, that’s a bummer, but all in all, it performs like a champ.

The thing costs about fifty bucks on Amazon. Got that in blue or pink for those who are picky about colors, with swappable faceplates kicking around if you fancy a mix-and-match scenario. The package also comes with a charging dock, which honestly, is a clutter savior on my desk. Plus, the LED lights on the dock look like they’ve been styled straight out of a disco club. Super shiny, a bit over the top, but who doesn’t like bling?

Now, let’s talk game time. This controller pairs like a charm using either Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz dongle, or the old-school wired way—dongle was my go-to for the trial phase. But, there’s a catch: the software, GameSir Connect, wasn’t exactly cooperative on the wireless front. Wouldn’t recognize my controller unless I connected the old-fashioned way with a cable. So heads up there.

The good stuff? Those Hall Effect sticks—supposedly less prone to drifting like a lost boat at sea—alongside two remappable back buttons and ergonomic grips, they’re the stars of the show. Everything’s comfortable and versatile; perfect for long gaming benders without your hands crying out for mercy.

I pretty much forgot to charge the thing most of the time, courtesy of its trusty dock. The controller didn’t seem to mind. It’s designed similar to an Xbox stick, so the buttons will feel like home for those who favor that setup.

But not everything’s sunshine and rainbows. Only two back buttons might not cut it for some, considering folks get greedy and want more control. And there’s no Xbox support, which I mentioned—maybe twice already.

Anyway, if you’re not tethered (pun intended) to an Xbox, this controller is design gold for PC, Switch, and mobile gaming. With options around the same price range, like the Xbox Wireless Controller, now pricier, the GameSir feels like a snug fit for budget-conscious folks not caring about Xbox.

Final thoughts? A nifty gadget, sure, full of surprises for the price tag. Just snag the right expectations. Oh, one more thing—convenient and looks slick on your desk as it keeps you entertained for hours, maybe even days. Don’t get glued to the screen though; remember to stand, stretch, or blink every once in a while.