Nyko Cashes in on Nintendo’s Labo Success by Making a Cardboard Arcade

Whenever something new comes along, there’s always someone out there trying to either improve on it or give the world there take.  Sometimes it’s amazing, but other times it just feels like an attempt to get some publicity.  After Nintendo released their popular cardboard Labo kits, accessory maker Nyko came up with their own idea.  It’s similar enough to seem like a knockoff, but it’s a bit different as well.  Their idea is the PixelQuest Arcade Kit. Like Labo, it comes packed flat as cardboard sheets.  But where it’s different is that the Arcade Kit doesn’t come with any software.  Instead, it’s intended to act as a mini arcade cabinet for games that support play on a single Joy-Con.  While it will work with a lot of games, it’s really meant to be played with games like Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection or Metal Slug 3.

But what’s the purpose of this?  When it comes to Labo, the whole intent was to be educational.  With Nyko, it’s like they just saw Nintendo making cardboard accessories for the Switch and they decided to jump on the bandwagon.  This whole idea, though, isn’t necessarily a bad one.  It’s just kind of odd, given the fact that it doesn’t necessarily have much of a purpose.  Not only that, it’s made out of cardboard, so it’s not going to last as long as many would hope.  Sure, it’s pretty cheap, considering, but they could have made it more expensive to lengthen its life expectancy.

The arcade won’t’ be available until later this fall.  Nyko is also releasing an Intercooler Stand and a Wireless Core Controller for Nintendo Switch. It features a unique design that lets the console dock horizontally while increasing airflow. Built-in proximity sensors will automatically activate the fans when a Switch is placed in the dock, ensuring the console is properly ventilated even when placed near other heated electronics in an entertainment center. The Wireless Core Controller has programmable turbo functionality along with additional enhancements like a gyroscope motion sensor, built-in rumble, and a rechargeable battery that Nyko says has up to 20 hours of playtime. It’s compatible with all Pro Controller Switch titles, with additional support for Android devices (via Bluetooth) and PC (when plugged in via USB). The Wireless Controller and the Intercooler Stand will cost $30 each, and they will be available for pre-order soon.

Is that how things are being done now? They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I just wonder if things are changing and maybe not for the better.  There was a time when accessories weren’t nearly as important as the unit itself.  Sure, I’m aging myself with this one, but remember when you bought the console, and it came with two controllers?  Which meant, you only needed to buy games and could then play with another person.  Now, not only do fewer things come with the main unit itself, there are tons of companies making accessories, and well, everyone has to have them.  How this arcade will play out remains to be seen.  We won’t truly know until the fall.  Until then, though, enjoy your Nintendo Switch and let us know if you pick up the PixelQuest Arcade Kit.