GameSir Super Nova review

Summary

GameSir Super Nova is a versatile, multi-platform controller with various connectivity options and advanced features, including Hall Effect sticks.
Priced at $50, the Super Nova offers premium performance, customized settings, and a comfortable, ergonomic design for long gaming sessions.
Despite minor issues such as app compatibility and the absence of an audio jack, the GameSir Super Nova offers excellent value thanks to its budget-friendly price.

Modern third-party controllers, like the GameSir Tarantula and Razer Wolverine, surpass many OEM alternatives because they are packed with the latest tech and offer in-depth customization to personalize the experience. GameSir’s Cyclone 2 impressed me with its Xbox-like feel and stylish charging station, and I wondered how the new Super Nova would compare, considering its similar styling and lower price tag.

The GameSir Super Nova arrived in the usual packaging, and I was pleasantly surprised to find two additional magnetic faceplates that switch up its appearance in seconds. Otherwise, it has a familiar shape which most players love, with some unique twists to make it stand out. I spent a few days testing the controller with various games on PC and Android, and here are my thoughts on its performance and value.

GameSir Super Nova

GameSir’s Super Nova is a multi-platform controller compatible with PC, Android, iOS, and the Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth. It has a comfortable shape and connects via Bluetooth 2.4GHz or a USB cable.

Brand: GameSir
Platform: Windows/Nintendo Switch/Android/iOS
Battery: 1,000mAh
Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4G, Wired
Programmable: Yes
Extra Buttons: Two extra buttons
Weight: 620g / 1.37lbs

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Price, availability, and specs

Multi-platform practicality

GameSir’s Super Nova is a multi-platform controller compatible with the PC, Switch, iOS, and Android systems. It also offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth for mobile gaming, and 2.4GHz wireless, and a USB-C wired connection for PCs and the Nintendo Switch. It comes with a stylish charging stand that features an indicator light to show when the controller’s long-lasting 1,000mAh battery is charging.

I felt no fatigue when using this controller.

Design-wise, the Super Nova emulates the ubiquitous Xbox controller with the same basic shape and asymmetrical sticks. It goes a step further by including rear paddles and the adjustable triggers I’ve come to love on the latest GameSir controllers. The adjustable triggers feature physical switches that allow for movement adjustment between 255 and 170 degrees to suit the game you’re playing.

You can also activate the hair-trigger mode by simultaneously pressing the M button with the left and right triggers if you’re playing a fast-paced online shooter. I felt no fatigue when using this controller because it’s relatively lightweight, and the rubberized textured grip provided a snug feel during extended gaming sessions.

I’m ditching my Xbox controller for this GameSir alternative

The GameSir Cyclone 2 has the same shape as an Xbox controller but adds extra paddles, a charging stand, and other features that improve the design.

Fussy buyers like me — who insist on the latest technology — will appreciate the Hall Effect sticks that eliminate drift and offer greater durability than standard alternatives. There’s also six-axis motion control for Switch players and adjustable vibration built into the grips.

You can easily change the Super Nova’s appearance with the magnetic faceplates, available in various colors, and even change the button layout by physically removing them and placing them in different slots. Most modern controllers include some form of RGB lighting, and on the Super Nova, it takes the form of a pair of subtle strips running along each side to provide some visual flair.

The GameSir Super Nova is available in Blue or Pink and retails for just $50 on Amazon or the GameSir site.

GameSir Super Nova

Brand: GameSir
Platform: Windows/Nintendo Switch/Android/iOS
Battery: 1,000mAh
Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4G, Wired
Programmable: Yes
Extra Buttons: Two extra buttons
Weight: 620g / 1.37lbs

What I like about the GameSir Super Nova

Premium performance at a budget-friendly price

Comfort is subjective, but I personally loved the Super Nova’s familiar feel and felt right at home with it. I enjoyed having responsive customizable triggers, which make a difference when I’m playing racing and shooting games. It’s hard to live without rear paddle buttons after experiencing them, and I feel they’re an essential feature on any new controller. The Super Nova’s classy charging stand is practical and takes up minimal space, ensuring the controller is always fully charged and ready to go.

I won’t be going back to a mouse and keyboard anytime soon.

Downloading GameSir’s Connect app is a must to get the best experience out of the Super Nova. The in-depth settings let you adjust everything from button configuration to trigger responsiveness and motion control settings. You can also use it to customize the vibration and RGB light settings to your preference.

I tried the Super Nova on Cyberpunk 2077 after a multi-year hiatus and was impressed by its performance in the updated game. Driving, shooting, and movements like running and jumping were fluid thanks to the responsive buttons and sticks. In my opinion, the console-like feel of the Super Nova is a better way to play this game, and I won’t be going back to a mouse and keyboard anytime soon.

Next up was one of my old favorites, Soul Calibur 6. I’m a sucker for fighting games, and the Super Nova performed admirably and got my seal of approval during my button-bashing chaos. I usually use a mouse and keyboard for online shooters like Apex Legends. It took a few rounds to get accustomed to the Super Nova, and my gameplay improved after adjusting the stick sensitivity in the Connect app.

Connecting the Super Nova to my Samsung phone was a breeze via Bluetooth. I’m not big on mobile titles because of the finicky touch controls, and wondered what difference the Super Nova would make. Titles like Asphalt 8 and Street Fighter IV CE took on a new dimension, becoming far easier to play and more enjoyable due to the handy analog sticks and triggers.

This controller has every feature a pro gamer could want for a truly shocking price

The GameSir Tarantula Pro offers rear paddles, TMR analog sticks, and other premium features for an unbelievable price.

What I don’t like about the GameSir Super Nova

Minor issues that won’t affect many players

I initially had issues linking the Super Nova to the older version of the GameSir connect app, which works for the Cyclone 2 and Tarantula Pro. Updating the app via Windows didn’t resolve the issue, and I needed to download the latest version to get it working.

I was slightly disappointed at the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack on the controller, but it probably won’t be an issue for most users and is understandable considering the Super Nova’s excellent price.

GameSir X3 Pro in a hand playing a first person shooter game.

This gadget turned my phone into a handheld gaming powerhouse

The GameSir X3 Pro mobile controller has microswitch triggers, anti-drift sticks, and a built-in fan to turn your phone into a handheld console.

Should you buy the GameSir Super Nova?

You won’t find anything better at this price

At just $50, the Super Nova offers outstanding value and punches above its weight compared to many OEM alternatives. It’s an excellent choice for multi-platform players, offering various connectivity options for PC, Switch, and mobile gaming. It also features an intuitive shape familiar to most gamers, along with numerous extras, including the latest Hall Effect technology, a charging stand, and extra rear paddles.