The Mini Arcade Pro, a new accessory from UK-based peripheral maker iMP Tech, aims to transform Nintendo Switch consoles into miniature arcade cabinets, but its design and functionality have drawn mixed reactions. Compatible with the original Switch, the Switch OLED, and purportedly the upcoming Switch 2, the device features an eight-button layout and a retro-style eight-way joystick intended to replicate the feel of classic arcade machines.

The core concept involves slotting a Switch console into the cabinet shell, utilizing the Switch's screen for gameplay. The Mini Arcade Pro also includes a mappable Turbo feature, a modern addition not typically found in older arcade setups.

However, the device has faced criticism for its visual design, described as "utterly terrible" and "covered in AI slop imagery" by WIRED. This refers to the use of AI-generated images in the product's aesthetic, a practice that has become increasingly common but also controversial due to concerns about artistic integrity and potential copyright issues. AI image generation relies on algorithms trained on vast datasets of existing images, enabling them to create new visuals based on user prompts. While this technology offers creative possibilities, its use in commercial products raises questions about originality and the potential displacement of human artists.

WIRED also noted "twitchy inputs" and "hurdles to update before use" as drawbacks, further limiting its appeal. The device's utility is primarily confined to specific titles that benefit from arcade-style controls, restricting its broader application.

Despite its drawbacks, the Mini Arcade Pro has garnered some positive feedback for its joystick and suitability for certain arcade classics. WIRED rated the product a 4/10, acknowledging its potential for specific use cases while highlighting its significant flaws. The Mini Arcade Pro is currently available for purchase through multiple retailers, including Amazon and Walmart.