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The Nintendo 64 controller has three grips because it supports different ways to reach its control clusters—not because players are meant to hold all three at once. Depending on the game, players hold two grips and use a different combination of the analog Control Stick, D-pad, and buttons. Nintendo’s manual describes three holding positions, while a developer interview explains how games used the left and right positions.
Why does the N64 controller have three handles?
The three-pronged shape provides alternate hand positions for a controller that combines an analog stick with a D-pad and several button groups. That combination suited a period when console games were moving beyond primarily directional-pad controls toward analog input and 3D movement. The Digital Game Museum notes that the controller was designed in part for Super Mario 64, with the game and controller developed in an intertwined process. The museum’s N64 controller overview describes the layout and its context.
Nintendo’s official history identifies the Control Stick as its first analog Control Stick and calls the controller’s shape a “unique three-pronged design.” Its history also describes the stick as enabling “complete 360-degree control” in games; that is Nintendo’s product description, not a measured ergonomic or performance statistic. Nintendo’s N64 hardware history also notes the Z button below the controller’s center.
The available sources establish the controller’s features and how its grips were used, but do not provide a direct statement from the original hardware designers explaining why they chose exactly three grips. It is safest to understand the shape as a way to offer alternate access patterns on one controller, rather than as a layout with one universally intended hold.
#1 Best Overall
- It features ten buttons, one analog "Control Stick" and a 8-way directional pad, all laid out in an "M" shape.
- Compatible with 64. Perfect controller for Mario Kart, Perfect Dark, and many other classic 64 games.
- Rumble Pak & Memory Card Feature. Provides force feedback while playing video games. Enhances the gaming experience. Note: This controller doesn’t contain Memory Card and Rumble Pak in package, need to purchase separately.
- Color: Black, Grey, Blue, Red, Yellow, Transparent Orange, Transparent Blue, Transparent Green, Transparent Red; Cord Length: Approx. 6 ft.
- Third-party Product, not original 64 controller, but no difference in quality from the original controllers!
How are you supposed to hold an N64 controller?
You do not hold all three grips simultaneously. The manual labels three positions—“Left Position,” “Right Position,” and “Home Position”—and says the appropriate position can vary by game and play style. The manual copy available online is hosted by New York City College of Technology, so its wording should be treated as a transcription from a rehosted copy rather than a verified quotation from every regional edition. View the N64 user manual copy.
For the left and right positions, Treasure president Masato Maegawa gave a practical explanation in a Nintendo interview. In the right position, the right hand holds the right grip and the left thumb operates the analog stick. In the left position, the left hand holds the left grip and the right thumb operates the stick. Maegawa said Nintendo had suggested both positions, but most games required the right position. Read the Iwata Asks interview with Maegawa.
Rank #2
- Compatible with all N64 models
- 10 ft. Cable
- Ergonomic, Premium build
- Analog Joysticks
For a specific game, follow its manual or on-screen instructions: button functions can differ between titles, and the three positions are not interchangeable if a game expects a particular control arrangement. The Digital Game Museum likewise explains that players could hold any two grips according to a game’s control needs.
What do the different positions change?
| Position | Hand and stick arrangement | What the evidence establishes |
|---|---|---|
| Right | Right hand holds the right grip; left thumb uses the analog stick. | Maegawa said this was required by most games. |
| Left | Left hand holds the left grip; right thumb uses the analog stick. | Treasure explored this arrangement for Sin and Punishment. |
| Home | Named in the manual as a holding position. | The manual excerpt names it but does not spell out its hand placement in text. |
The manual’s diagrams are the better guide to the exact hand placement for Home Position; the available text description alone does not establish those details. The manual also cautions that button functions can vary by game, so the position names are not a substitute for a title’s instructions.
Rank #3
- 🎮[Compatible ]Compatible with the original N64 system console, wired controller for enjoying old school Online N64 video games, perfectly for Mario Kart 64, Zelda n64, Mario party, Perfect Dark, Super Mario 64, ocarina of time 64,Super Smash Bros and many other N64 games.(Not for Windows PC Games)
- 🎮[Ergonomic Design]Tight and accurate analog control, the controller features 10 function buttons (including Left and Right shoulder functions and Z-trigger). Based on ergonomic and designed to fit your hands nicely, easier to grip than other controllers. It is a great replacement for old original N64 controller you have.
- 🎮[Rumble Pak & Memory Card ]: Compatible with most of game memory cards. you can use a memory card and transfer the game memory card save data. Upgraded 3D analog control stick commands your action with precision, perfectly compatible with N64 System console.
- 🎮[N64 Wired connection]The cord is approx. 1.7 meters (6ft), including a push-on N64 connector and easy to use. Use a N64 Controller Extension Cord Cables, you can play across the room. The joystick is removeable and replaceable.
- 🎮Third party controller, not original N64 controller(non-USB edition). The best gift for your families or friends, that will bring back those childhood memories when you are playing these classic N64 games.
Why did some games use the less common left position?
Maegawa said Treasure explored the left position for Sin and Punishment, a game with a different control design. He also recalled that its special actions felt unexpectedly difficult to players trying them for the first time. That account illustrates the trade-off in the N64 layout: the extra grip arrangement gave developers another way to map controls, but players had to learn the position a particular game expected. It is a developer’s recollection, not a statement from the controller’s original design team.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Does the three-grip design still matter?
It matters if you are learning the original controller or comparing an N64-style replacement. Check whether a replacement preserves the three-grip layout, where it places the stick and D-pad, and which consoles or platforms it supports; then match those choices to the games you intend to play. A 2026 Tom’s Guide review of the 8BitDo 64 describes that modern example as removing the middle prong. It shows that a controller can borrow N64 controls without copying the original grip architecture, but it does not establish compatibility with every console or game.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The controller for N64 have 10 function buttons (Included Left and Right shoulder buttons and Z-trigger), an analog stick/thumb joystick. Shaped like "M", with improved ergonomic technology design,designed to please your hand with a comfortable feeling when holding it.
- Want to play classic games with your kids, but you don't want to destroy the expensive original N64 controller, our controller can perfectly replace the N64 controller. It can also be used as a multiplayer game controller, you need a spare controller to play games with friends.
- The controller's line length is 5.8 feet, which can save you from having to be so close to the screen, better protect your eyes, and is suitable for people of all ages, enjoy the classic games easier.
- Rumble Pak & Memory Card Feature. Provides force feedback while playing video games. Enhances the gaming experience. Note: This controller doesn’t contain Memory Card and Rumble Pak in package, need to purchase separately.
- Third-party Product. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Please believe that we will put the customer experience first. We will provide you with the best solution.
Rank #4
- ⚡【Compatibility】2 Pack wired controller fully compatible with N64 system console, perfect for Mario Kart 64, The Legend of Zelda,Perfect Dark, Super Mario 64,ocarina of time 64,Super smash, Ocarina of Time and many other classic N64 retro games.
- ⚡CLASSIC DESIGN: Tight and accurate analog control, the controller features 10 function buttons (including Left and Right shoulder functions and Z-trigger). This is a great replacement for any old original N64 controller you have.
- ⚡Rumble Pak & Memory Card Feature: Compatible with most of game memory cards. you can use a memory card and transfer to an SD card. Not support Transfer Pak function.
- ⚡COMFORTABLE GRIP: Ergonomic handle design fits naturally in your hands during extended gaming sessions. The cord is approx 6ft. Use a N64 Controller Extension Cord Cables,you can play across the room.
- ⚡Third party controller, not original N64 controller.The best alternative wired controller for N64 games, that will bring back those childhood memories when you are playing classic games.
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