Cubstraption Review

Cubstraption
PriceCubs
ReleaseFebruary 16, 2024
CompatibilityNS / Wii / GC / PC

Introduction

Ever wanted to use a GameCube controller for directions and a box controller for attack buttons? Cubs made a hybrid, the Cubstraption, that has a GameCube controller on the left and half of a box controller on the right.

The D-pad, stick, left trigger, and start button of the GameCube controller are active, and the rest of the controller is disabled. Note that you would need to attach your own GameCube controller to the Cubstraption.

Cubs
Cubs using the Cubstraption (like a boss)

The GameCube controller is attached to a 3D printed mount that is screwed onto the bottom plate of the controller with four screws. It plugs into a GCC port on the box controller when you plug it into your console of choice. The port is built into the PCB.

The box controller is made of layered acrylic. The keycaps are injection molded by Rana Labs and use Kailh Box V2 Red switches with hot swappable sockets.

Performance

The buttons are responsive, and thanks to the two 3D printed molds for mounting the GameCube controller, you can choose a straight or slightly more ergonomic angle.

Now, you may feel that the controller is closer to the panel underneath than you would prefer. Furthermore, while the USB-C to GCC cable is sturdy, you might want to zip tie it to minimize any potential obstruction.

Otherwise, DIs that are impossible on a regular box controller are possible with the Cubstraption, and Firefox angles are easier as well.

Hardware

The chassis of the Cubstraption is comprised of stacked acrylic to separate the buttons from the motherboard. For internal access, the Cubstraption is easy to take apart, but taking out the GameCube controller specifically may feel like a defusing process. Finally, the GCC port’s housing is a nice touch.

Appearance

The box side of the Cubstraption can come in the color of your choice, which is nifty, and it can be matte or glossy. Even the keycaps come in different colors.

The GameCube controller can look as good as you would like it to as you would need to source it yourself. The panel under the controller is see-through and quite aesthetic as well. It can also be colored if you choose that instead. The black cable is simple looking.

Conclusion

The Cubstraption is a much needed innovation that combines the best of both worlds.

  • Hybrid layout
  • Mount options
  • Responsive buttons
  • Hot swap switches
  • Port housing
  • Sturdy cable
  • Color choices
  • GCC-panel distance
  • GCC excluded

Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

See Also

FightBox R1

FightBox R1-B