Reddit mentions: The best wii gamepads & standard controllers

The Wii had even more crapware than the original DS, but I finally got one this year for like $50 (USD) and found out it actually has a lot of good games if you dig a little bit. The fact that it can be 100% soft-hacked helps as well; there are a million emulators made for it. I still use my Sony PSP for exactly that reason, so having a fully hacked home console I can use for multiplayer (which is hard/impossible to do with a PSP's emulators) is really nice, especially since I've got one of the older models with the GameCube controller ports (though even if I didn't, a generic 3rd-party classic/pro controller is cheap and easy to come by)... :)

You should get yourself the Wii u controller along with a new game :D. You need it rightnow because you have an itch to play and its so much better when you have a new shiny controller in your hand. So much better game play.

i need this right now because look at that color! Its amazing! My nails need this to shine and stand out in the crowd.

Thanks for the contest! Batman Suit.

• You will need an external hard drive.
  
  
• Gamepad battery range is short, battery sucks. Invest in an extra charge cable to use while playing, or one of the extra battery attachments. Range can't be helped.
  
  
• The best controller option, in my opinion, is to NOT go with the Wii U pro controllers, but with Wii Remotes, along with the Nun-Chuck and Classic Controller Pro Controller. This will get you the best variety of support, and is not too expensive if you do it correctly. Go through the Nintendo refurbished store for the $25 Wii Motion Plus Remote + Nunchuck deal. Purchase Nintendo Brand Wii Classic Controller Pro attachments; the Japanese version from Amazon are the best, they are compatible, $20-$25.

If they all offer the same hardware, the price typically indicates the condition of the console. Read the condition descriptions. Personally, I'd buy the cheapest one that is in what I would personally consider to be a good condition.

However, from the image on that Amazon page - those Wii Remotes and nunchucks are definitely NOT legitimate. There's no guarantee the console itself is either. If that is what is being sold by those sellers, I would look elsewhere.

Here's one on the first page of an Amazon search https://www.amazon.de/Nintendo-Wii-Family-Konsole-Sports/dp/B0049USKP4/ref=sr_1_4?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1541164822&sr=1-4&keywords=nintendo%2Bwii&th=1

that looks legitimate. There don't seem to be any legitimate bundles with 4 remotes and nunchucks, so I would recommend just buying more of those separately.

The cheapest legitimate, not motion plus Wii Remote I can see on German amazon (€10~): https://www.amazon.de/Nintendo-RVLACJW1-Wii-Remote-wei%C3%9F/dp/B000IMWK2G/ref=sr_1_8?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1541164965&sr=1-8&keywords=wii+remote

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The cheapest legitimate, motion plus Wii Remote I can see on German amazon (€20~):

https://www.amazon.de/Nintendo-Wii-Remote-Plus-wei%C3%9F/dp/B009ACAK8G/ref=sr_1_3?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1541164965&sr=1-3&keywords=wii+remote

The cheapest legitimate nunchuck I can see on German amazon (€5~):

https://www.amazon.de/Nintendo-Wii-Nunchuk-wei%C3%9F/dp/B009ACAEAA/ref=sr_1_3?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1541165119&sr=1-3&keywords=wii+nunchuck

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Whether or not you want the GameCube compatibility will probably depend on whether or not your kids care about having the ability to play old GameCube games or not. If you're not sure, don't worry about it.

Just saying, those off-brand Wii U Pro Controllers are great, I bought one last year, it plays great and the battery life is huge.

But careful with some brands, I recommend these:

https://www.amazon.com/PowerLead-Wireless-Controller-Nintendo-Bluetooth/dp/B00SN1QEGW/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_63_t_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=E1AK2JHR6BD34ZHTYVTW

Here, you might want to take a look at this, it's an official Nintendo brand red nunchuck from Japan where red is available just like black and white units are. This is an import, but the hardware is compatible with Wiis and Wii Us from any region. Since it's official I would hope that this helps complete your idea, but since I haven't ordered one yet I can't confirm that the insides match up perfectly. I would assume that the plastic mold would be the same for all the different colors.

http://www.play-asia.com/wii-nunchuk-controller-red-paOS-13-49-en-70-3zz4.html

EDIT: I live in the US and actually bought this CCP from Amazon.co.uk and can confirm that this red Classic Controller is a real Nintendo brand controller. The import fee makes it fairly expensive, but if you really want to make the most out of this idea, this is another project for your collection.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Classic-Controller-Pro-Red-Wii/dp/B005ST9JZA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1408145925&sr=8-1&keywords=wii+classic+controller+red

Yeah. There are other 3rd party ones but they replicate the XBOX360 controller for people use to that setup, these ones follow the Pro Controller and... they glow blue which is a big deal, not really.

They look like this, I own 2 and quite happy with them!

And usually you can find them on eBay or in stores cheaper!

I don't have huge hands and I can do it but it's not comfortable. Also my muscle memory is more attune to the YB running than the BA on the 3DS. I can do it on the NES but not as comfortable on the 3ds. Like whoever made this doesn't understand my problems
http://www.amazon.com/Wii-Boss-Red-Nintendo/dp/B002QBQDC0
I mean look at that angle! Is that even comfortable for you?
I'm really happy I can remap buttons on the Wii U VC.

Unrelated to topic but just as an FYI. I have been very happy with these knock off Pro controllers. Won't help with the lack of screen I don't think but might be more effective than a dualshock

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SN1QEGW/

I bought a 3rd party one from amazon.

Still waiting for it to arrive, but the reviews for it are entirely positive and it looks cool.

I think most of the frustration can be from confusion. Keep in mind that gamepad + a few wii remotes will cover you for almost everything. They work with virtually all Wii U games (good option for multiplayer), all wii games, and most wii VC. Though some wii VC do require classic controllers, however it is really uncomfortable for long term use. I myself only use it if I have to. The wii u pro controller is comfortable and nice to use but it is not required, and isn't as versatile as the wii remote.

There are a few places to save money on the controllers. The Wii Remote Plus/Wii Nunchuk refurbished from nintendo is a good deal, and comes in black to match the deluxe wii u. Also, get the 'japan' versions of the other controllers from amazon. They work exactly the same, but much cheaper.

• Wii Remote Plus/Wii Nunchuk 25$
  
• Wii Classic Controller Pro (japan) 28$ instead of 53$
  
• Wii U pro controller (japan) 45$ instead of 60$~70$

What's my best option for a Pro Controller? I've been playing Xenoblade Chronicles X as my first Wii U game, and I've found the Gamepad a bit uncomfortable. I bought this third party Pro Controller off Amazon, but I could tell right away I needed to return it: the left analog stick wasn't registering inputs properly, it only registered being fully pressed in any direction at diagonals. I could take another shot at this controller (it certainly seems to be working for some people, based on the reviews), but I was wondering if there were other good options?

https://smile.amazon.com/PowerLead-Wireless-Controller-Nintendo-Wii-Bluetooth/dp/B00SN1QEGW/ref=sr_1_3?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1518985709&sr=1-3&keywords=wii+u+pro+controller

Dude, honestly. I bought a pro controller online that I didn't know was third party. its this one:

http://www.amazon.com/DHSHOP-Wii-Controller-Nintendo-Device-U/dp/B00E6L8VNW/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1415596369&sr=8-15&keywords=pro+controller

I didn't know it was third party because the seller labeled it as a first party one. But honestly? It works just fine. It feels just like the pro controller, and it does what it needs to. The battery life isn't as long, but hey, its not too big of a deal.

These were only a few dollars more with free prime 2 day shipping. I'm convinced they are real pro controllers, one of them even has the slight remains of a polished off Nintendo logo. Idk what their deal is but they work great and I have only charged them once since I got them a few months ago.

Better yet... found this in the related things... best deal ever

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005ZGZQRG/ref=asc_df_B005ZGZQRG2506089?smid=A300BO76A5T3XD&tag=dealt627774-20&linkCode=asn&creative=395105&creativeASIN=B005ZGZQRG

Buy a Pi 3, they're cheap. You can get a kit easy on Amazon for about 50 bucks, should come with a case, a couple of small heat syncs, power cord, and a micro sd card. Pick up a cheap HDMI cord if you don't already have one. Then go to the retro pie website and just follow the instructions. As long as you're slightly computer literate, you should have no issues getting it going. Once retro pie is installed, ROMs are easily added by dragging and dropping into the appropriate folder.

You'll want a controller (obviously), I suggest either a wired one like this or you can even use a BlueTooth controller, this is the one I use. Setting up the bluetooth controllers just takes an extra step to connect within the menu, not hard to do, the wired one should be plug and play.

The comments here are very disappointing because I'm working on rebuilding my old gamecube collection and I was hoping to buy some cheap wireless controllers, which would be better fits for how my living room is set-up.

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Amazon sells two of these third-parties for $37.00 which seems ideal but it sounds like I'm asking for trouble, yes?

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https://www.amazon.com/Poulep-Wireless-Controllers-Receiver-Nintendo/dp/B078HYSRQ8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1537804631&sr=8-3&keywords=wireless+gamecube+controller

Being in the same boat i picked up one of these:Veanic 2.4G Wireless Gamecube Controller Gamepad Gaming Joystick with Receiver for Nintendo Gamecube,Compatible with Wii (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075B41KWN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mlZ2DbXN7DP11

It works well but sometimes you have to either pull out the batteries and add them back or remove the adapter that plugs into the gc then add it back if you are inactive for 5 minutes or longer. Other than that i found the battery life, range and responsiveness to be decent. Not bad for a 3rd party controller at all.

I just wanted to bring an update back - After reading here, I bought two of those controllers - https://www.amazon.com/PowerLead-Wireless-Controller-Nintendo-Wii-Bluetooth/dp/B00SN1QEGW/ - and while they seem to be pretty good fit and finish, I DO find they do have a VERY slight delay to them. A delay that I do -not- experience with the big game tablet that comes with the system.

I can give a for-example. I am currently playing Ducktales (Fantastic, if you've not tried it, duplicate of the original I played as a kid) -- I was playing the Himalayas level and there's one section where you have to jump from rope to rope... It's a point where you let go of the rope, move right, then instantly press up. This controller would -not- do it. I died about 4x and thought it must not be receiving my UP fast enough to grab that rope... But sure enough, I set down the knock off controller and would you look at that, nailed it first try through all of the ropes with zero issues.

Now mind you -- I played the entire level with the other controller without any issue so this delay is VERY small. Quite possibly my button presses being advanced by myself without even really noticing, but sure enough, this section I could -not- do without the big game tablet-controller. I'm curious if it's just a cheaper bluetooth chipset they used in them, or if the Pro controller would suffer the same. I expect it would not, as it's not a bluetooth speed issue overall, the gamepad thingie is still wireless too.

I suppose anyone could test it for themselves - start a two player game with a jump in it, and press both of the buttons at the same time and see?

Link for pro controller at decent price:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nintendo-Wii-Pro-Controller-Black/dp/B009ACALCQ

This isn't the charging station I got but it is similar. Worth reading the reviews though as it seems YMMV:
http://www.amazon.com/Performance-Wii-Station-Charging-Nintendo-U/dp/B00AB2NCJI

Hope this helps :)

I found these on Amazon a while back. Cool colored shells. Unless you're planing to grind out some Melee, they should be decent enough for play.

Reiso 2 Packs NGC Controllers Classic Wired Controller for Wii Gamecube(Clear Purple and Moss Green)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DGH54HJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_63kYDbYTF4PAH


As for memory card, the generic ones you can find on eBay work fine.

Played a bunch of Mother 3 (regularly getting 16 hit combos), Wind Waker, and Smash. No noticeable lag, the original set of rechargeable batteries I put in there are still cooking, and the controller generally feels good after a bit of breaking in. 20ish bones in the US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075B41KWN/

There are some negative reviews, so YMMV - looks like QC may not always be good. Thoroughly test when you get it and make risky hardware purchases from places that let you do free / easy returns.

Buy a Japanese Pro Classic Controller on Amazon. It's $25 and works perfectly. Controllers aren't region locked.


http://www.amazon.com/Wii-Classic-Controller-Japanese-Version-Nintendo/dp/B002C1AUP0

Can someone answer for me if the Wii-U Pro controller can be used in bowser mode? Does it use the motion controls where you'll NEED a wii mote?

I have 2 Wii motes and a pro (http://www.amazon.com/Wii-PRO-controller-shiro-WUP-A-RSWA-nintendo/dp/B009AP2518/ref=zg_bs_1232371011_4) for anyone that hasn't seen it). I want to know if I need to shell out another $45 to play this with my friends (I've spend more on controllers between the PS4 and Wii U lately than I have on games. :)

Also Know that Owning a Wii U means you have access to those Wii games as well and the Wii U comes with an HDMI Cable so it's much more useful then a Wii since most new TVs don't have a Composite out or even a Component out.

Also Know that to play any of these games on either Wii or Wii U (which ever one you get) you're gonna need a Wiimote + one of these:

The PDP Fight Pad

The Classic Controller

or The Classic Controller Pro

I would recommend getting the Japanese one off amazon. It works perfectly on all Wii U's and the price tends to drop more often than the American one. (provided you're in America) It was on there a couple weeks ago for 38 bucks.

Wii Classic Controller Pro with an adapter is the best by far.

Just this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FDNP884/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6hbXBbPMMG170

Edit: I really like how its so similar to the Xbox 1 controller. I really like Xbox controllers

I've gone with the Bowink Controllers myself. The three I have are decent enough and survived long Mario Kart matches with my young cousins, so they can take a beating overall. Their customer service was great too, they replaced one of the controllers after one had issues with an analog stick. Haven't been paid to say this btw.

You can get a white one for $40 from Japan. I was also able to order it with free shipping and it came in just a week.
Don't be fooled by the $20 ones from China, though. Always look at reviews, they're most likely fakes. The one I got works excellent, though. Even on an American Wii U.

http://www.amazon.com/Wii-controller-shiro-WUP---RSWA-nintendo/dp/B009AP2518/ref=sr_1_5?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1412436655&sr=1-5&keywords=wii+u+pro+controller

Try going for the Japanese one from Amazon. It's literally the exact same as the US version (and OEM), except the packaging is in Japanese. I got mine the other day and it works like a charm.

https://www.amazon.com/Wii-Classic-Controller-Pro-Japanese-Version/dp/B002C1AUP0/ref=sr_1_3?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1487502376&sr=1-3&keywords=wii+classic+controller

This is the best one I can find. I recently ordered it and it's coming today.

If OEM means made by Nintendo then yes. I have one that isn’t but it’s like a “recovered” controller. Uses the same parts as a Nintendo one.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SN1QEGW

I did find these. They say that the are exactly the same as the US version, but from Japan. I read through a bunch of reviews and they say it is good.

http://www.amazon.com/Wii-PRO-controller-shiro-WUP-A-RSWA-nintendo/dp/B009AP2518/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1412618373&sr=8-1&keywords=Wii+U+Pro+japanese

Noob question: I want to buy a pro controller for MK8 and others games (like Mario 3D World).

Should I buy official products only, or can I go for 3rd party ones ? If so, which ones ? Is this one ok ?
http://www.amazon.fr/Manette-pro-sans-afterglow-pour/dp/B00CEVEXQ0/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1410176702&sr=8-6&keywords=wii+u+pro+controller

Typically no. Especially for larger tournies, wireless controllers pose as a logistical issue. You may be able to get away with one at a local with below 50 attendees, but once you go larger than that, you'll have a hard time finding TOs that'll allow them.

IMO, you're better off with a GameCube Controller:

White GC Controller

Black GC Controller

GC Adapter

(Note: There's no difference between the colors, just take your pick)

---

Course, if for some reason you still want wireless:

Classic Pro Controller

Classic Controller

Wii U Pro Controller

This is true, I just searched them out. While not in stock on a lot of sites, I found them on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Wii-PRO-controller-shiro-WUP-A-RSWA-nintendo/dp/B009AP2518/

You know we have an Amazon depot here now, right? $14 and here tomorrow. You are welcome.

Would it just make sense to use the Classic Controller Pro? I cant justify buying a controller for a single purpose. I hope it is compatible.

Just got a Wii U for my kids for Christmas. Is there a "classic style" controller that will work for Skylanders Swap Force (a Wii game)?

Playing that game with the wiimote+nunchuck hurts my hands. I found this one, but reviews are awful and I'm hoping there's something better out there.

Wii classic controller, might be the pro version actually. Like this.

http://www.amazon.com/Wii-Classic-Controller-Japanese-Version-Nintendo/dp/B002ACOJTY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1421360088&sr=8-3&keywords=wii+classic+controller+pro

One of the Hori or PDP fight pads that were recently released would work the same.

MM was included as a bonus disc with one of the games, and my brother played it all the time on the Wii with a Gamecube controller. That's why I'm assuming you'll need the classic controller or fight pad.

That was the exact one I ordered. It looks like this one should be current and identical. Poulep Wireless Controller Compatible with Nintendo Wii U Pro Console - Bluetooth Gamepad Joystick Dual Analog with USB Charging Cable (A - 2 Packs Black and White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QWWCC4L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KMw0DbY3SD2PT

Pro controller!. Thanks for the contest.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N49L55X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Y1nTDb897KZ1E better deal

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SN1QEGW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This one is just as good and less than half the price. Can't tell any difference between the Nintendo one and this brand.

Yeah I bought a cheap one that didn't work, so I ordered the official one from Amazon for 27 bucks

Edit: 24 now: https://www.amazon.com/Wii-Classic-Controller-Pro-Japanese-Version/dp/B002C1AUP0/

I am not sure why the Japanese accessories are cheaper on Amazon... but I'm glad there's no region-lock on controllers!


Official Japanese GC Connection Tap - ~$35


Japanese Wii U PRO controller - ~$45


Refurb Wii Motion Plus and Nunchuck -~$25

Looks like the Wii Classic Controller Pro: https://www.amazon.com/Wii-Classic-Controller-Pro-Japanese-Version/dp/B002ACOJTY/ref=pd_sbs_63_t_1/161-5708022-6672547?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=K39FWNTF7WMQ1MD5N7AD

Looks like a white Wii Classic Controller Pro.

That's probably the smartest thing to do. Here's a link for the cheapest official one I know of. The box is Japanese but the controller is the same.

Tu parles de ça ? Effectivement, si Amazon met 2 semaines à le livrer, ça doit pas courir les rues.

Sinon t'as la manette pro. Je prendrais sûrement ça, si SSB est injouable au gamepad.

I don't know where you're from, but there seems to be a lot of options for controllers on amazon https://www.amazon.ca/Cirka-M05819-BK-GameCube-Controller/dp/B005ZGZQRG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462221802&sr=8-1&keywords=gamecube+controller+nintendo

Amazon offers the Japanese-packaged version of the controller (completely compatible with non-Japanese systems) for $39.50, which is the cheapest I've seen. Link.

I don't get it, I see plenty of them at a decent price on both Amazon and the usual import sites:

• Black $46: http://www.amazon.com/Wii-U-PRO-controller-black-WUP-A-RSKA/dp/B009AP23NI
  
• White $48: http://www.amazon.com/Wii-U-Pro-Controller-White-Nintendo/dp/B009AFLXJS
  
• White $38: http://www.amazon.com/Wii-PRO-controller-shiro-WUP-A-RSWA-nintendo/dp/B009AP2518
  
• Black $29: https://www.nippon-yasan.com/nintendo-wii-u-conosle-japan/7230-wii-u-pro-controller-black.html
  
• White $29: https://www.nippon-yasan.com/nintendo-wii-u-conosle-japan/7229-wii-u-pro-controller-white.html
  
• Black $35: http://www.play-asia.com/nintendo-wii-u-pro-controller-black-paOS-13-49-en-70-5eol.html
  
• White $35: http://www.play-asia.com/nintendo-wii-u-pro-controller-white-paOS-13-49-en-70-5eon.html

Amazon has the Japanese ones and from what I've read they're identical to NA controllers after you open the box.

Wii U PRO controller (shiro) (WUP-A-RSWA) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009AP2518/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_GdJhyb8JF1GNQ

I usually share the same reservations but this seems to check out as legit at least according to the reviews and questions. Just the Japanese packaging.


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009AP2518

The Interworks Controller Pro U has everything you need for $20 on Amazon. It functions as a Pro Controller, a wii remote, and a classic controller. I've had mine for 18 months and haven't had any problems. It does have a shorter battery life than the Pro controller, probably only 10 hours.

This is obviously a joke.


Firstly. It certainly isn't the most expensive controller you've ever seen.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sony-PlayStation-DualShock-Jet-Black/dp/B00BF6D63Q

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nintendo-Wii-Pro-Controller-Black/dp/B009ACALCQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1418904666&sr=1-1&keywords=wii+u+pro+controller

Secondly, he is just talking nonsense. Asking if it feels awkward.

• Old Type Wiimote without Motion Plus: http://www.amazon.de/-/dp/B000IMWK2G/
  
• Modern Wiimote with Motion Plus Build in:
  http://www.amazon.de/-/dp/B009ACAK8G/
  
• Nunchuck: http://www.amazon.de/-/dp/B009ACAEAA/
  
  Be sure to check the New/Used section for even lower prices.

Clean link.

> Wiimote. The Wii's controller from last gen, including all add ons such as the nunchuck and WM+

Other add-ons such as Classic Controllers are also available.

I use the US version of these. Same plug and all.

right here!

No Not At All

Always go legit for controllers.

$20.xx on Amazon

Target currently has the genuine Nintendo pro controller for $41.99 or you can get a Japanese Import one on [Amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/Nintendo-Wii-Controller-Japanese-Version-Black/dp/B009AP23NI/ref=sr_1_5?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1482789261&sr=1-5&keywords=wii+u+pro+controller#customerReviews) for $42.90 (It's just the same as a US one but the instructions are in Japanese).

Alternatively you could get a [Wii classic controller] (https://www.amazon.com/Wii-Classic-Controller-Pro-Japanese-Version/dp/B002C1AUP0/ref=sr_1_3?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1482789583&sr=1-3&keywords=wii+classic+controller) and attach it to your wiimote as you do the nunchuk.

Not an original, but you can get them for $20:


https://smile.amazon.com/Veanic-Wireless-Gamecube-Controller-Compatible/dp/B075B41KWN/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=wavebird&qid=1558371303&s=gateway&sr=8-3

If you don't like the Wii Remote and prefer more traditional controls then the Wii Classic Controller Pro is for you.

Edit: Link to buy them on eBay.

Not quite sure where to buy it from. I see this one amazon but idk if it works in the US.

I ordered this one

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SN1QEGW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've had no problems with it, battery life doesn't seem as long as an actual Pro Controller but it should be 10+ hours on a single charge.

Bought 3 of these and they all sync up and connect right out of the box no problem. They are $20 clone Wii U Pro Controllers.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SN1QEGW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I also have a SNES30 that syncs up fine... Opened the box, updated firmware from my PC, synced it up with pi... no issues... I'm about as pi noob as it gets, and I was able to get 4 controllers synced up with no problems and play 4 person super bomberman with my wife and kids.

Maybe your SNES30 is just a bad one...

I do like those Wii U pro controller clones though. They are nice.

I would keep an eye on this page for a small price drop. I paid $38 for this one. This is a Japanese model but there is no region lock on the controllers.

This would work if you already have a Wii Remote. But no, you would only be able to use Nintendo controllers and cheap knock offs... no PC controllers on Wii U