What CRKD does

CRKD (operating as Freemode Go, LLC) is a private, US-based consumer gaming hardware company founded in 2023 and based in Livermore, California. It designs, markets, and sells premium collectible gaming controllers and accessories across four core product families: the Nitro Deck/Nitro Deck 2 handheld controller grips for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, the ATOM/ATOM+ compact keychain-style controllers, the NEO S wireless controllers, and the ULT PRO professional wireless controller. The company has also built a dedicated rhythm-gaming category through licensed Gibson Les Paul and Gibson SG guitar controllers, with an upcoming drum kit controller extension.

The company's technology differentiator is drift-resistant thumbstick engineering, spanning three sensor approaches across its portfolio: Hall Effect sensors (Nitro Deck+, NEO S, guitar controllers), TMR/Tunneling Magnetoresistance sensors (ATOM+, ULT PRO), and proprietary CaptiStick capacitor-based zero-contact sensors (Nitro Deck 2). Additional differentiation includes modular hot-swappable components (stick tops, D-pads, mechanical fret necks), a companion app for remapping and firmware updates, and a True Collection System that uses RFID/NFC for product authentication and rarity ranking. Strategic licensing partnerships with Gibson, Epic Games (Fortnite Festival), Rocket League, Limited Run Games, Hellboy, and Mechanism anchor the brand's collectible positioning.

CRKD operates a direct-to-consumer-led model through crkd.gg, supplemented by Amazon marketplace, Limited Run Games as a collector channel, and a planned TikTok Shop. Revenue is generated entirely through one-time hardware purchases at price points ranging from $19.99 (ATOM) to $199.99 (Cherry Sunburst bundle), with accessories creating recurring attach revenue. The company ships to 48 countries and serves multiple target segments including Nintendo Switch/Switch 2 gamers, rhythm-game enthusiasts, collectible gaming hardware collectors, competitive/pro gamers, and multi-platform gamers. CRKD is privately held, employs 1-10 people, and has not disclosed any external funding.

Name

CRKD

Legal name

Freemode Go, LLC

Website

https://crkd.gg

Company type

Private

Founded year

2023

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

CRKD is a US-based gaming hardware company that designs and sells premium collectible controllers and accessories — including Nitro Deck, ATOM, NEO S, ULT PRO, and licensed Gibson guitar controllers — for Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PC, mobile, and rhythm-game enthusiasts across 48 countries.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Consumer Electronics

NAICS

Computer Terminal and Other Computer Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing (334118), Electronics and Appliance Retailers (44921), Hobby, Toy, and Game Retailers (45912)

SIC

Computer Peripheral Equipment, Nec (3577), Games, Toys & Children's Vehicles (No Dolls & Bicycles) (3944)

akta.pro primary industry

Gaming Controllers & Gamepads (HDACANAC)

akta.pro secondary industries

Input Devices & Controllers (Gamepads, Keyboards, Mice, Fight Sticks, Steering Wheels, HOTAS) (MPAFAGAF), Game Controllers & Input Devices (Gamepads, Wheels, Flight Sticks) (CRACAOAD), Console/Handheld Accessories (Docks, Cases, Stands, Skins) (CRACAOAJ), Handheld & Mobile Gaming Hardware (Dedicated Handhelds, Accessories) (MPAFAGAB), Handheld Gaming Consoles (HDACANAB)

Keywords

• Gaming controllers
• Video game accessories
• Wireless controllers
• Gaming hardware
• Collectible controllers

Headquarters

HQ city

Livermore

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Operations

Revenue model

1. Hardware Sales: Primary revenue stream from selling gaming controllers and accessories. Products include Nitro Deck handheld controllers, ATOM keychain controllers, NEO S wireless controllers, ULT PRO professional controllers, and Gibson Les Paul guitar controllers. One-time purchase model with various price points from $19.99 to $199.99.
2. Accessories and Add-ons: Sale of accessories including stick tops, D-pads, carry cases, display stands, fret button packs, rechargeable batteries, and charging docks for existing products.
3. Limited Edition Collectibles: Special edition products with unique colorways, collaborations, and collector-focused releases (e.g., Limited Run Games Fusion Edition, Rocket League themed controllers) that command premium pricing and create scarcity-driven demand.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

CRKD designs, manufactures, and sells premium collectible gaming controllers and accessories for consumer and enthusiast gamers. Its product portfolio includes Nitro Deck controllers for Nintendo Switch, ATOM keychain controllers, NEO S wireless controllers, ULT PRO professional controllers, and Gibson-licensed guitar controllers. The company emphasizes proprietary stick technologies (CaptiStick, Hall Effect, TMR) and officially licensed collaborations to differentiate its controllers in the gaming hardware market.

Product overview

CRKD is a premium collectible gaming hardware brand offering a portfolio of specialized controllers and gaming accessories. The product lineup centers on four core controller families: (1) Nitro Deck/Nitro Deck 2 series - handheld controller grips that hold Nintendo Switch consoles for enhanced handheld play, with the Nitro Deck 2 representing the next-generation version featuring proprietary CaptiStick capacitor-based drift-free thumbstick technology; (2) ULT PRO - a professional-grade wireless controller with TMR sensors targeting the pro gaming market; (3) ATOM/ATOM+ - ultra-compact keychain-sized controllers designed for portable gaming, with the ATOM+ featuring TMR thumbsticks and motion controls; (4) NEO S - a wireless collectible controller with Hall Effect thumbsticks. Beyond standard controllers, CRKD has developed a dedicated rhythm gaming ecosystem including licensed Gibson Les Paul and Gibson SG guitar controllers with modular fret neck upgrades, display stands, and fret button packs. The portfolio is complemented by swappable customization accessories (stick tops, D-pads), protective cases, and the CRKD Companion App enabling True Collection System registration and controller customization via Bluetooth.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Nitro Deck: Handheld controller grip for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 featuring drift-free thumbstick technology
• NEO S
• ATOM
• ULT PRO
• Rhythm Gaming

Products and services

• Nitro Deck A premium gaming controller for Nintendo Switch, part of CRKD's signature Nitro Deck series, designed for Switch gamers seeking enhanced ergonomics and performance over standard Joy-Con alternatives.
• ATOM Controller A keychain-sized portable gaming controller in CRKD's ATOM series, targeting gamers who want a compact, on-the-go controller option.
• NEO S Wireless Controller A wireless gaming controller in CRKD's NEO S series, positioned for multi-platform gamers seeking a premium wireless option.
• ULT PRO Controller A professional-grade gaming controller in CRKD's ULT PRO line, targeted at competitive and enthusiast gamers.
• Gibson-Licensed Guitar Controllers Officially Gibson-licensed guitar controllers produced by CRKD, aimed at rhythm-game players and collector fans of the Gibson brand.

Quantifiable outcome

• No stick drift through capacitor-based zero-contact sensor technology
• +2 more outcomes

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles1 record

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature8 records

Partnerships

Six partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Limited Run GamescoreGTM or Marketing Partner · 12 December 2025Collaboration for exclusive Nitro Deck 2 LRG Fusion Limited Edition featuring split Glacier Blue and Atomic Purple design. The limited edition is available exclusively through both CRKD and Limited Run Games websites until pre-order window closes March 29, 2026, then vaulted permanently.
• GibsoncoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerLicensing partnership for Gibson Les Paul and Gibson SG guitar-shaped controllers. Design engineered by members of original RedOctane team behind Guitar Hero. Multiple editions including Pro Editions, Encore Editions, and 20th Anniversary models across various platforms.
• Epic Games / Fortnite FestivalcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerOfficial licensed partner for Fortnite Festival guitar controllers including NEO S Deadmau5 edition and other Fortnite-themed products. Controllers compatible with Fortnite Festival mode.
• Rocket LeaguecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerLicensed partnership for Rocket League themed Nitro Deck and accessories including Rocket League Silver Edition and Gold Edition with exclusive game-themed artwork.
• Stage TourminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerUpcoming rhythm game partnership for Stage Tour Drums (teased in May 2026 firmware update blog). Development ongoing with planned summer reveal.
• MechanismminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerBrand collaboration listed under brands section of CRKD website for Mechanism-themed products.

Scale indicators2 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• Razer: Diversified gaming peripherals incumbent offering Wolverine controllers, mechanical accessories, and an ecosystem far broader than CRKD's. Razer is a broad incumbent that competes in the premium controller niche where CRKD's ULT PRO is positioned.
• Sony Interactive Entertainment: Owner of PlayStation and the DualSense/DualSense Edge controller lines. Sony is the relevant incumbent for licensed gaming hardware broadly and competes with CRKD's ULT PRO at the high end of consumer controllers.

Direct peers

• PDP (Performance Designed Products): Major officially-licensed third-party gaming controller and accessory maker for Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo. PDP competes directly in the rhythm-game guitar controller market (formerly Rock Band) that CRKD now targets with Gibson-licensed guitars.
• PowerA: Officially-licensed Nintendo, Xbox, and PlayStation controller maker with a focus on enhanced/collectible designs. PowerA's MOGA mobile gaming line also overlaps with CRKD's multi-platform ATOM keychain controllers.
• Scuf Gaming: Premium pro-tier controller brand specializing in customizable paddles, triggers, and grips. Scuf is the closest analog to CRKD's ULT PRO positioning in the high-end wired/wireless pro controller category.
• 8BitDo: Direct competitor in retro-styled and modern Bluetooth/wired gaming controllers for Switch, PC, and mobile. 8BitDo offers premium mechanical-feel controllers with customization apps and competes head-to-head with CRKD's NEO S and ATOM lines.
• Nacon: Bigben-owned gaming peripherals brand offering pro controllers and officially-licensed rhythm accessories. Nacon is a relevant peer in the European market where CRKD also ships, and it owns the RIG brand.
• Hori: Long-standing Nintendo-licensed third-party controller maker with Switch splits, Fight Pads, and HORIPAD products. Hori is a direct peer to CRKD's Nitro Deck handheld grip category and Nintendo-focused accessory lineup.

Emerging players

• Flydigi: Chinese gaming peripheral maker offering low-cost mobile controllers and gamepads with drift-resistant tech. Flydigi is a comparable peer in the multi-platform and mobile gaming controller category where CRKD's ATOM and NEO S compete.
• Backbone One: Mobile-first game controller maker for iPhone and Android with companion software. Backbone is comparable to CRKD's ATOM keychain multi-platform portable controller thesis, though focused on smartphones rather than keychain form factor.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights5 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/crkdgg
• Facebookfacebook.com/crkdgg
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/crkd

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about CRKD