CRKD has unveiled a limited edition NEO S controller inspired by Linkin Park’s signature style, perfect for rhythm games and Fortnite Festival. The NEO S LINKIN PARK Edition controller is specifically designed for use with Fortnite Festival and other rhythm-based games, making it a unique accessory for fans of the iconic nu-metal band.
Compatible with Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile devices, tablets, and smart TVs, this versatile controller features artwork inspired by Linkin Park’s instruments in Fortnite Festival. The release coincides with the addition of two new Fortnite Festival jam tracks, including the band’s latest single, "Up From The Bottom," from their upcoming deluxe edition album, From Zero, due out on May 16, 2025.
The controller boasts a unique Festival Attachment that replicates the frets of a real guitar. This ergonomically designed attachment fits comfortably in the palm of the hand and features five action buttons that mimic guitar frets, enhancing the gameplay experience for rhythm game enthusiasts. This innovation promises to improve scores, reaction times, and overall enjoyment.
But the NEO S Linkin Park Edition isn’t limited to guitar play; it’s versatile enough to handle keytar, drum, mic, and bass parts in Fortnite Festival. Even without the Festival Attachment, the controller functions seamlessly for all regular games, making it a multi-purpose gaming tool.
CRKD has incorporated cutting-edge technology into the NEO S, including Hall-effect thumbsticks to eliminate stick drift, a No Deadzone Mode, integrated motion controls, and adjustable trigger sensitivity. The controller also boasts remappable back buttons, adjustable vibration, and swappable stick tops, offering a high degree of customization.
In keeping with CRKD’s collector-focused approach, the NEO S LINKIN PARK Edition is compatible with the company’s ‘True Collection System.’ This free mobile app for iOS and Android allows users to register their product number and rarity ranking, adding a layer of exclusivity to the gaming experience.
The NEO S LINKIN PARK Edition is available for pre-order now, with shipping expected to begin in May 2025. Priced at $59.99 USD, €69.99 EUR, or £59.99 GBP, this controller represents a unique opportunity for gamers and Linkin Park fans alike to own a piece of gaming and music history.
For those eager to get their hands on this limited edition controller, pre-orders are now open on CRKD’s website and Linkin Park’s official store. As supplies are expected to be limited, fans are encouraged to act quickly to secure their piece of this unique gaming hardware.
The Fortnite Festival Edition CRKD Neo S is also currently on sale for $50 at Amazon during the retailer's Big Spring Sale. Normally priced at $60, this $10 discount matches the best deal yet for CRKD's wireless Nintendo Switch and PC controller. The officially licensed gamepad features a 5-fret button attachment, making it ideal for Fortnite's Guitar Hero-esque game mode.
Released at the end of 2024 and designed by the team behind Guitar Hero and DJ Hero controllers, the Neo S Fortnite Festival Edition is reminiscent of the 4-fret attachment that slotted into the Game Boy Advance slot on the DS. Playing Guitar Hero with cartridge slot attachment was actually pretty fun, and the rectangular form factor of the Neo S makes holding the controller this way feel natural.
The controller comes with a velcro wrist strap to keep it from flying across the room during intense gameplay, as well as a microfiber string bag for travel. It is compatible with Fortnite Festival on streaming platforms like Luna and Xbox Cloud Gaming, plus a wide range of other rhythm games.
For those who prefer a different aesthetic, CRKD also recently released a Black Tribal edition of the Neo S with the 5-fret attachment for $60. Additionally, the Linkin Park-themed model will join the lineup in May 2025.
Outside of the detachable five-button module, these iterations have the same features as the conventional Neo S controllers. It remains a pro-style controller with a compact form factor, equipped with Hall Effect analog sticks and swappable thumbstick tops. Additional stick tops are sold separately in bundles of eight for $20 each, with gray stick tops discounted to $13 during the sale.
The Neo S also features Hall Effect triggers with customizable sensitivity via the CRKD mobile app. This easy-to-use app allows users to map inputs, including the pair of remappable back buttons. The Neo S has adjustable rumble and motion controls, although motion controls will only work on Nintendo Switch. Within the app, users can turn on optional preloaded configurations, including a turbo mode.
CRKD is set to launch an actual guitar controller in June 2025, officially licensed by Gibson Les Paul. This upcoming wireless guitar controller will be available in two different color schemes: Blueberry Burst and Black Tribal. The Xbox/PC version will cost between $120 and $130, while the Nintendo Switch/PC/legacy console edition will range from $110 to $120. Preorders for CRKD's Gibson Les Paul Guitar Controller are available now at Amazon.
For those needing PlayStation compatibility, PDP's Riffmaster Wireless Guitar Controller for PS5 is available for $111 at Walmart, while the Xbox and PC version of the Riffmaster is on sale for $100.60 at Amazon.
CRKD's Neo S first released in April 2024 and has already established itself as a collector’s item with unique and stylish designs, including a Famicom-inspired Retro Gold controller and a number of transparent shells. The standard Neo S controllers without the fret attachment typically cost $50, but Amazon is offering $12 discounts on several different designs.
In summary, CRKD continues to innovate in the gaming accessory market with its NEO S LINKIN PARK Edition controller, appealing to both gamers and music fans alike. As the gaming landscape evolves, products like these highlight the intersection of gaming and popular culture, creating unique experiences for users.
