Hyperkin gaming hardware hits NZ in Play Distribution deal

Play Distribution has inked a deal to distribute video game peripheral manufacturer Hyperkin's offerings in New Zealand.

The Los Angeles-ased gaming hardware vendor's recent product line includes an officially Xbox-licensed retro-style controller for the Xbox One, a portable console for Super Nintendo and Super Famicom cartridges, a mobile attachment that plays Game Boy and Game Boy Color cartridges on Android smartphones and a high definition gaming console which plays NES cartridges in 720p HD.

Michael Gush, Play Distribution marketing and sales executive, says the distributor will initially cover Hyperkin's core range , which covers the vendors 'big, upcoming products' along with the best sellers, expanding to the full range over time.

Among the initial offerings will be the Game Boy attachment for Android phones, a controller range and the new wireless original Xbox controller for PCs.

"The innovation and excellence Hyperkin has shown in their products from conception to development aligns perfectly with how we feel and operate at Play Distribution," Gush says.

"We are extremely excited to bring such outstanding products to showcase in New Zealand.

Gush says Hyperkin has a number of offerings expected to appeal particularly to the mid-20s to mid-30s age bracket, with a lot of 'classic' offerings.

"There's a lot of classic range from the gaming gear we grew up with that have gone to PC now – the Xbox original controller, which was a big controller that a lot of us have fond memories of, even though it was a little huge, and the retro Xbox dial controllers and Game Boy with Android phones.

"There things we grew up playing and now they're available for us to use on PC or wherever else we chose.

Gush says the offerings are price competitive, with many cheaper than the license of the PS4 and Xbox original controllers.

Gush says Play Distribution will initially push Hyperkin via Mighty Ape before rolling out to other retailers such as EB Games, JB Hi-Fi and PB Tech.

The first products will hit Mighty Ape at the beginning of September – in time for Father's Day.

Hyperkin says it understands playing video games has been a universal pastime and is glad it now has a viable distribution channel to New Zealand gamers.

"It's awesome for us to have a brand like that onboard," Gush says. "It could potentially be a huge brand for us.