While all eyes might currently be fixed on the Nintendo Switch 2, the current Switch handheld is still thriving. Even after eight years, the Nintendo Switch remains robust and boasts a plethora of brand new games and accessories, including the stunning new Hyperkin Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End gear.
Hyperkin has collaborated with Crunchyroll to introduce this new series of Nintendo Switch accessories inspired by the beloved anime series via X/Twitter, and as an anime enthusiast, I simply can’t get enough. This marks the inaugural wave of accessories from this brand collaboration, featuring two EVA cases and two wireless controllers showcasing everyone’s favorite quirky elf mage.
The two distinctly different available designs are captivating—featuring the protagonist Frieren herself in her radiant glory. Pricing and more details are promised at a “later date,” but the controller looks to be a reimagined version of the brand’s existing Pixel Art controller line, and the cases are modeled after the brand’s EVA hard-shell carrying cases.
If the specifications remain unchanged, the Frieren controllers are likely to be compatible not only with the Switch and its OLED variant but also with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices. The latest lineup of Pixel Art controllers also features an ergonomic design and Bluetooth support up to 30 feet from your gaming console or preferred platform. Moreover, if previous collaborations are any indication, the cases should be available for every model of the Switch.
However, while I am enamored with these designs, and unique anime merchandise for the Switch is nothing new, there is one drawback—the Switch currently lacks any Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End games.
To date, there is no game adaptation of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End on any gaming platform. Since the anime adaptation first aired in 2023 and the original manga debuted in 2020, the slice-of-life series has only seen mobile collaborations, such as the appearance in the Japanese game Monster Strike held in April of last year.
With that said, there is nothing Frieren-related to engage with while you’re picking up the wireless controller and admiring your new stylish anime case. That doesn’t mean the accessories aren’t some of the most visually appealing Nintendo Switch controllers and cases I’ve encountered, but personally, I prefer to have my Switch adorned with accessories reflecting actual Switch games I can play.
Currently, my Tears of the Kingdom OLED Switch is securely housed in the PDP Slim Lumber Link 8-Bit case. Before that, I had a Splatoon 2 case along with matching Joy-Con covers that I imported from Japan. As a devoted Frieren manga reader and someone who’s watched the first season of the anime more than once, I can’t help but wish there was a game to accompany these new Hyperkin peripherals.
At least you can currently enjoy the anime series via the Crunchyroll app, which is available for free on the Nintendo eShop. Watching on the OLED’s 7-inch screen may not be perfect, but it allows you to pair your future Frieren accessories with the best series to watch.
Nonetheless, I hope this new collaboration between Hyperkin and Crunchyroll will lead to many more anime-themed Switch accessories down the line, particularly ones that are genuinely inspired by the Switch’s existing game library. Especially since a Spy x Family controller to use while playing SPY×ANYA: Operation Memories would be a fantastic addition.
If you’re not deeply into anime, check out our guide to the best Nintendo Switch cases for another way to protect your cherished handheld. We have also compiled the best Nintendo Switch microSD cards and the best Nintendo Switch chargers in one guide so that you can gain more space and power for your favorite Switch games.