What is the rarest Nintendo Switch Joy-Con?

The Nintendo Switch has had a variety of special edition Joy-Con controllers over the years, some of which are considered rare due to limited production or unique designs. While many Joy-Cons are still available for purchase, certain editions have become highly sought after by collectors. Here are some of the rarest Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons:

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Special Edition Joy-Con

• Description: Released alongside The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in 2017, this Joy-Con set featured a Gold-and-Green color scheme, with intricate designs inspired by the game's iconic art style.
• Why it's rare: These Joy-Cons were released as part of a limited edition bundle that included the game and a custom Switch dock. They were not sold separately, making them a highly collectible item.
• Collector's Value: Due to their limited release and the popularity of the Zelda franchise, these Joy-Cons can command a high price on secondary markets.

2. Splatoon 2 Special Edition Joy-Con

• Description: The Splatoon 2 Edition Joy-Cons feature Neon Pink and Neon Green colors, matching the vibrant, ink-splat aesthetic of the Splatoon 2 game.
• Why it's rare: Similar to the Zelda Joy-Cons, the Splatoon 2 set was sold as part of a limited edition bundle alongside the game, and the Joy-Cons themselves were not made available separately for a while.
• Collector's Value: While still relatively available, this special edition set is highly coveted by Splatoon fans and collectors due to its unique color combination and limited availability.

3. Super Mario Odyssey Special Edition Joy-Con

• Description: Released alongside Super Mario Odyssey in 2017, this Joy-Con set comes in Red and Blue colors, reflecting Mario's iconic outfit and the vibrant color palette of the game.
• Why it's rare: The Super Mario Odyssey edition was only available in limited quantities and was part of a bundle with the game. Due to the limited release, it has become a collector's item for Mario fans.
• Collector's Value: As the game and console bundle has long since been discontinued, this set is often sold for premium prices.

4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons Special Edition Joy-Con

• Description: Released alongside the highly anticipated Animal Crossing: New Horizons game in 2020, this set features Pastel Green and Pastel Blue Joy-Cons with a soft, nature-inspired look.
• Why it's rare: These Joy-Cons were part of a limited edition bundle and were associated with one of the most popular Switch games of all time, creating high demand and scarcity.
• Collector's Value: Although they were available for a limited time, due to the game's immense popularity, they have become rare and can fetch a high price on the secondary market.

5. Pokémon: Let’s Go Pikachu and Eevee Special Edition Joy-Con

• Description: This set features Yellow (Pikachu) and Purple (Eevee) Joy-Cons, each with subtle detailing like the Pokémon paw prints and faces.
• Why it's rare: These Joy-Cons were released to celebrate the Pokémon: Let’s Go Pikachu and Let’s Go Eevee games in 2018, and like other special editions, they were available only in limited quantities.
• Collector's Value: While they were available in stores for some time, they are now considered rare due to their limited run and their association with the ever-popular Pokémon franchise.

6. The Neon Purple and Neon Orange Joy-Con

• Description: A striking set of Neon Purple and Neon Orange Joy-Cons that were released in 2019. They offered a unique and bold color combination not found in standard Joy-Con offerings.
• Why it's rare: These were part of a limited run of color variants that Nintendo made available for a brief period. They're rare because they were released in small quantities and have since been discontinued.
• Collector's Value: As a unique color combo, they are often seen as a collector's item and can be difficult to find at a reasonable price.

7. Splatoon 2 Inkling Pink and Inkling Green Joy-Con

• Description: Released in tandem with Splatoon 2, this special edition set featured Neon Pink and Neon Green Joy-Cons, reminiscent of the game's ink-splat motif.
• Why it's rare: Like the other special editions, this set was released for a limited time as part of a bundle and was only available for purchase during the launch window.
• Collector's Value: Due to its limited nature, this set is now rare and highly sought after by collectors, especially those with a strong connection to the Splatoon series.

8. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Edition Joy-Con

• Description: Released to coincide with the release of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in 2018, this set featured Red and Blue Joy-Cons with custom designs.
• Why it's rare: These Joy-Cons were a special edition for the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate game and were initially part of a bundle. They were only available for a limited time.
• Collector's Value: The set has become rare due to its limited availability and its connection to the iconic Smash Bros. franchise.

How to Spot Rare Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons

If you're hunting for rare Joy-Cons, here are some tips:

1. Limited Edition Packaging: Many rare Joy-Cons come in special packaging with distinct artwork related to the game or series.
2. Discontinued Models: As the years go on, models tied to specific games (like Zelda, Mario, or Pokémon) tend to be discontinued, making them more valuable over time.
3. Price: If you’re buying from secondary markets, be prepared to pay a premium for rare models, especially if they are in good condition and come with the original packaging.

Conclusion

The rarest Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers are those that were released in limited edition bundles with games like Zelda, Super Mario, Animal Crossing, Pokémon, and Splatoon. These controllers have become collectibles due to their unique colors and limited availability. If you're looking to add one of these rare Joy-Con sets to your collection, be sure to check out online marketplaces or specialty shops, though be ready for higher prices.

For new or custom controllers, you can also explore a wide variety of options at Youwei Trade Gaming Controllers, offering reliable and affordable choices for Switch gamers.