Controller Suggestions?

hansolo77

I'm a little torn between the myriad of available options to me. My problem is trying to decide how I want to tackle this problem with DB9 controllers (Sega/Atari). I'm definitely thinking I need to install some plugs on my NES case to enable the use of legit controllers, but I'm not sure what to do. I've searched for options, and I've come up with a few possibilities:

The Raphnet Adapter - This looks like a solid piece of technology, and I've had very good success now with their 2-port NES to USB adapter. The problem with this adapter though, is that you only get 1, and it's nearly $30. I'd need 2 just to be able to have 2 player games working. The other negative thing about this is that they're listed specifically as not supporting paddle controllers, which I'd hate because some of my favorite games are Paddle (Kaboom, Breakout, etc).
The Mayflash Adapter - I've been reading reviews on Amazon, looking at online revew sites, and everwhere else I can find. Seems these things are hit or miss. They may or may not work. While the company is somewhat well known in the emulation scene, this particular device has been reported time and time again as being faulty. Either the wires internally get crossed causing dPad directions to control the other controller, buttons being reversed, etc. It seems the only positive things with this adapter is that you get 2 plugs, and it's closer to $15. I also am still uncertain if it works with paddle controllers.
USB - I don't really like this idea, but I think it's my best bet right now, hence my reason for asking here. I personally grew up in the 16-bit Sega era, so I'd love to play my Sega games with true Sega 3 or 6 Button controllers. But, if I can't get a proper DB9 plug installed, I'm going to have to rely on USB ended 3rd Party remakes. There are a few out there that have some pretty good ratings. The problem is, I've yet to find any USB ended Atari style controllers, which would mean I still have to install something. I'd be eager to find at least 2 joysticks and 2 paddles. Add to that 2 6-button Sega controllers. The USB plug on the end actually causes the prices of these controllers to go up. I can find used 1st Party (name brand) controllers for a lot cheaper if I could just attach the right plugs.

So does anybody have any recommendations for me? I'd prefer something internal, that I can just attach an external controller to from the outside of the case as needed based on the game or system. But if the only available options are to either use 1) 2) or 3), I think I might just forget it. Is there a 4th option I'm missing? Oh, and I should mention I'm not really sure I can use the GPIO directly anymore, as I have power/reset/led wires hooked into it, as well as a 5v fan. So I know of THAT option, and I'm pretty sure it's not available to me.

Dochartaigh

@hansolo77 said in Controller Suggestions?:

My experience mimics what you've read. I'm losing count, but I think I'm up to over 12 USB adapters for various console controllers. The only one which actually worked right 100% of the time is the Mayflash SNES, but that's probably because that's the only one I have less than like 5 controllers to test (only had 2 SNES, maybe 3 - both of which worked).

I've actually just ordered a Buffalo SNES USB, and a Hyperkin 6-button Genesis USB controller to check those out again (haven't owned those brands for years now), just for simplicity. - and if you know any other 3rd party ones which are rated as better PLEASE let me know - both of those were the highest rated on Amazon for SNES and Genesis USB controllers.

Basically, where I'm at now, is I have a set of NES, SNES, Genesis 6-button, and PS1 controllers all of which worked. You can read about the horrors (and trials and tribulations - links below) of what I've been through to in order to get that set to work - really was WAY too much time, money, effort, and frustration than it should have ever been.

https://retropie.org.uk/forum/topic/5275/list-of-working-usb-adapters-for-original-console-controllers

https://retropie.org.uk/forum/topic/5271/problem-with-genesis-megadrive-usb-adapters-retrousb-and-mayflash-brand

hansolo77

I hear ya. I started out my project forecasting a total cost of around $100. That fit as far as getting my Pi Kit, NES Case, Mausberry Circuit, and Raphnet USB adapter. Then I went and started buying more stuff; 2 Cirka NES Controllers, some power plugs (from China), a USB hub (from England), a case-mountable HDMI cable, a blue LED, cable ties, soldering iron (my old one just broke) and more solder, electrical tape, mounting hardware (screws, spacers, nuts) for the Pi. I need to go back and recalculate how much I've spent. And now I'm looking to spend even more so I can get more controllers. I have the wireless Xbox 360 dongle, and it works fine. But the big thing I'm wanting to do is get some Atari joysticks/paddles so I can get my Dad to play. I've been trying for years to get him to want to play video games, and he keeps saying stuff like "these new games are too complicated", or "how can you play with your thumbs?". If I can get the controllers he's used to, maybe we can at least rekindle that gaming spirit. Probably not, but it's worth a shot.

So from your experience @Dochartaigh it looks like you went with the USB route. Do you have any Atari controllers?

Dochartaigh

@hansolo77
No sorry, don't have any Atari controllers. My gaming started in 1986, with I was 7, with the original Nintendo Entertainment System ;)

edmaul69

@hansolo77 so as far as db9 adapters these are my recommendations:

Ultimate pc interface.
Most universal controller adapter out there. 2 players. Unfortunately you cant use paddles. You can use every other atari 2600 device though. Most adapters cant use genesis and paddles because of the way the adapter recognizes paddles it conflicts with how other controllers are recognized.

2600-daptor or2600-daptor II.
Can use paddles and atari joysticks. The 2600-daptor II can also use all of the 2600 devices and the 7800 controllers as too.

The vision-daptor.
Can use a lot of controllers that the upci can but only 1 player.

If you are looking for genesis and paddles i recommend these adapters because their compatibility is far greater than any other adapter.

hansolo77

Do you have a link for that "Ultimate PC Interface?" Every time I Google for it, I keep coming up with links to Intellivision, with no mention of of any other systems. I might go with the 2600-dapter. The dapter II is pointless since I have no need for the other controllers, although it's upgradable firmware would be nice to have just in case some further development is made to allow Sega Controllers as well. I sent Raphnet an email to see if they have any kind of special deal on 2 of their adapters, or if they have plans on designing a 2-player to USB circuit (would be ideal).

Floob

In terms of adapters, this one is quite interesting:
http://skunx7.wixsite.com/bliss-box/home

Although some issues with the Pi at the moment:
https://github.com/RetroPie/RetroPie-Setup/issues/1525

hansolo77

Oh wow, I completely forgot about the Bliss-Box. We talked about it over in the GameEx foums, so I've known about it for some time. Too bad support for it is lacking in the RetroPie world. I suspect @meleu could have a looksee at it and figure out what's wrong. It's probably all related to the issue I was having with getting my Xbox controller to work as the primary input rather than secondary to the NES pads.

ulao

Just wanted to post an update to fix bad info. The Bliss-box is fully working with the pi since 1.56.1.