As a gamer, you've likely experienced the frustration of playing vertical arcade games on your phone in a less-than-ideal way. Enter the innovative Tate mode mini controller, a solution crafted by modder Max Kern to tackle this long-standing issue. But the burning question remains: does it truly resolve the problem?
Traditional controllers are designed for landscape mode, much like those used with the Switch or Steam Deck. Yet, many classic vertical shooters and retro games require you to hold your phone vertically, akin to scrolling through Instagram. Recognizing this gap, Max Kern devised a compact USB-C gamepad tailored specifically for portrait-mode gaming, also known as Tate mode. This controller connects directly to your phone's USB-C port, eliminating the need for Bluetooth, charging, or additional batteries.
Max constructed the Tate Mode mini controller using a Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip, with the case and buttons 3D-printed via JLCPCB. If you're intrigued, you can replicate this setup yourself by following Max's detailed tutorial on his YouTube channel.
What’s Your Opinion on This Tate Mode Mini Controller?
Utilizing the GP2040-CE firmware, this controller functions as a standard HID device, making it compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac—a testament to its versatility despite its small size.
However, the design does raise concerns about the strain it might put on the USB-C port, as the gamepad bears some of the phone's weight. This could lead to the need for additional support to prevent bending the connector over time.
Feedback on Reddit varies, with some users expressing admiration for the ingenuity while others worry about potential hand cramps. Some find it uncomfortable, while others are more open to embracing this DIY project.
It's worth noting that this isn't a commercial product but a DIY endeavor. Max has generously shared all necessary firmware and print files on Thingiverse and Github, inviting enthusiasts to try it out for themselves. What are your thoughts on this innovative tiny gamepad? Share your comments below!
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