Just an extra tip: those 8Bitdo wireless adapters work with any bluetooth controller and are better than regular Bluetooth dongles. They connect fast, stay reliable, and sync easily. The only downside is you’ll need one adapter for each controller, but it’s totally worth it for the better experience. They work perfectly with Nintendo switch online pads too (SNES,N64) something most generic bluetooth adapters struggle with. And you don’t need to enter Mister Bluetooth setting at all.
Love controller guide videos! I've been using both the Retro Fighters Brawler and Hunter on the N64, Saturn, and PS and they have both performed really well. The Hunter OG Xbox layout works well for 3D games and it has Hall Effect joysticks/triggers. For arcade and console fighting games I find myself using the 8BitDo M30 (works both in wireless Bluetooth and wired USB mode) and it's D-pad can't be beat for flawless "hadoukees". Love its new(ish) Saturn colorway too. A close second would be the Retro-Bit Sega Genesis 8-Button USB Arcade Pad. Feels just the original but with added shoulder buttons and a much more functional Mode button. For SNES games, 8BitDo SN30pro is as good as it gets. And you gotta love the microswitches on the 8BitDo SNK controller.
The dual sense via bluetooth is a revelation. From the testing out there i think its the quickest input latency period? Retro-bit tribute 64 with the usb receiver has been super nice too 🤙🏻
The Tribute 64 Wireless is outstanding. Specifically the wireless version, which is an improved version of original corded Tribute 64 and is less cramped, has a more reasonably-sized dpad, and has much better articulating shoulder buttons. As someone who is a compulsive controller buyer, it means a lot when I say it's one of the most comfortable controllers I own. The only thing I would fault it for is its anemic rumble motor, but I gladly still choose it over any other N64 controller for all the things it does right.
@@VideoGameEsoterica For some weird reason, Bluetooth HID seems to be way less robust when handling a noisy environment and connection issues than other protocols. It's not just controllers, it's very noticeable with keyboards and trackballs as well. I'm not sure if it's something inherent to Bluetooth or if it's just that most Bluetooth implementations suck at handling such issues. Let's hope it's not all bad, I'm about to build a split keyboard and I'd really love to use it in wireless mode. 😅
See in my house Bluetooth is sometimes better. We have plaster walls (building was built in 1890) with chicken wire in the plaster. Vintage building. Giant faraday cage. So sometimes wifi gets eaten up by the chicken wire vs Bluetooth which stays more consistent
I did get the 8bitdo PC-E pad by your recommendation before for MiSTer, and it has been excellent. I didn't grow up with a PC-E but using it for NES has been incredible. Glad to see an update!
COMPLETELY off topic well, sorta.. I just got a Steam Deck off a friend. 64 GB model (I upgraded it to 2 TB NVMe & 1 TB Micro SD + GuliKit Hall Effect joysticks). Anyway the point I dug out my Steam Controller & realized how much I missed using it. I used it with the Link till I got a Shield TV 2017. I think it’s fitting . I now use it again as a controller for the deck when it’s docked.
@@VideoGameEsoterica exactly it’s like the natural progression of its evolution. I still hope one day they circle back around and update the controller I could do without the left trackpad and take a real d pad. And maybe split the backside triggers, so you have the equal amount of buttons I do absolutely love the right haptic trackpad. It’s perfect & smooth, for camera positioning I almost prefer it to using a joystick to do it. And I’ve already found myself doing the same thing on the decks, right hand trackpad
Retrobit Sega Saturn USB (most cores I use), 3rd Party 360 Controller (Pre-2020) (Specifically N64), PS3 Qanba Drone with a Brook Zero-Pi fitted inside of it (Mainly Arcade Cores) and a NES SNAC to play NES Tetris has been my go to for years now. I need to get my hands on the iBuffalo SNES controller (If you know, you know) and Lately I'd love for the Sega Saturn SNAC to work in order to use my Saturn Controllers (including my Fight Stick).
People either love or hate the Retrobit Saturn controller. A bad batch must have gotten out because I love mine and I know a lot of people that do but others will say it’s horrible
@@VideoGameEsoterica I don't know if it makes a difference but all of my controllers are wired (intentionally). I also got my RetroBit controller maybe 2017 or 2018. I can't speak for those who purchased theirs post-pandemic.
It’s less about connection and more about bad D pads from what I’ve heard. Hence my assumption a bad batch got out because my D pad is 95% as good as an original Saturn pad
Mostly been going my way to get as many OG controller setups as I can, preferably wireless while shooting for decently low latency if possible. - NES + SNES I've used 8bitdo's DIY Kits for both NES/SNES Classic-controllers for comfortable wireless gaming on Nintendo-systems or even platformers on PS1 such as Rayman. - For SEGA-consoles, the Retro-Bit's Bluetooth Saturn Arcade 8-Button Pad has been a favourite pick-up + play controller in general - as of late I've also got the wired 3-Button Pad from Genesis Mini and play more earlier Genesis-titles with that sometimes. - PS1 I use Dualshock 3, though maybe someday I might wanna get SNAC for Dualshock 2 or even original Dualshock. Also do have PS Classic's wired Digital Pad, but hardly use it actually. - For N64 I actually use a red OG controller with Mayflash N64 USB Adapter V2 - the lag on it seems pretty minimal, and hopefully later on we'll be getting a firmware update that allows for Rumble Pak-support. - With Turbografx I actually went all my way to buy the PC Engine Hori Mini-controller from Ebay (cost me quite a bit tho) - not only has it been nice for TG16 but I've also come to prefer using it for Master System and MSX (helps with it's shooters especially) - With Arcade I have some interesting choices such as Taito's Egret Mini 2's wired Joystick with 4-way/8-way switch for easy transition between early 80s to 90s' classics - though I also have a Venom Arcade Stick + 3rd party NES Advantage-controller for NES Classic that I modified for 4-way games a bit.
I went for a TP-Link AC1300 Archer T3U for the wifi adapter, you pay more but it's signal is very robust and 5GHz capable. A lot bigger of course but then more room for the antennae. Seemed to do the best in benchmarking without getting into the silly price category.
I feel so lucky I got a iBuffalo SNES controller a decade ago. Also use an 8Bitdo Genesis / DualSense / and I got a 8Bitdo NEOGEO recently. That retro-fighters n64 controller looks nice. I kind of want to make a pelican case for all of my controllers. Or 3D print holding trays so they can go in a tool chest drawer. How do you organize your controllers?
My go-to for the MiSTer is an 8BitDo Pro 2 controller over Bluetooth. Puts together a quality SNES-style D-Pad with a modern control layout, and is perfect for just about everything on the system excluding Sega Genesis games. (Even then, the controls work well enough for it; it’s just an issue of three-button control mapping to a controller with four face buttons being a bit awkward.)
I’m surprised you didn’t mention the 8bitdo M30! I use the 2.4g version as my main MiSTer controller and it is an absolute dream. Feels very close to Sega Saturn and the build quality is excellent (despite the mixed build quality issues I’ve had with 8bitdo sometimes)
I have that Saturn pad, and I was planning on trying to use it for my MiSTer & SaTurn but I couldn’t get it mapped properly in the core. Works great on the actual Saturn.
Great video. My setup is Playstation 5 controller with Edimax bluetooth and 8bitdo M30 2.4G sega genesis mini controller. Seems to cover basically everything.
The new Saturn Pro pad makes a surprisingly decent N64 controller. The six-button layout maps well to A, B and the C buttons, and it has analog and d-pad both in easy reach. I do wish they'd mapped the second shoulder buttons to stick click instead of the C/Y buttons.
@@VideoGameEsotericaNo argument, but I'm not using it to play Saturn analog games, so it's not the dealbreaker it would be for some. I have to assume it's because they're also targeting it as a Switch controller, and it doesn't do analog triggers. But that's a bad decision if so.
@@simon41978Yeah, when using the USB receiver it presents as a standard controller. Only hangup is that two of the shoulder buttons get mirrored to Z/C buttons.
My favorite Arcade sticks right now is the Hori Alpha. I got 2 heavily modded with Aluminum panels and Seimitsu buttons, 2lb Arcade shock spring. I use both all the time one is Xbox the other is PlayStation.
That's next on the to do list. I have MAS sticks I want to modernize too. But the Hori Alphas have exceeded my expectations. And I'll probably get more too 😂😂
Yeah I haven't seem many enclosures in stock lately. The Octo stick has my attention too multi system compatibility, primarily made for Dreamcast. Looks like something that was torn off of a Candy Cab.
I agree about the Retrobit Sega Saturn wireless controller. It’s excellent and just as good as the original Japanese Sega Saturn pad. I prefer both the Retrobit Saturn and Genesis pads over the 8Bitdo M30. They look and feel identical to the originals.
My go to has often either been a MegaDrive Mini six button controller or a Playstation Classic controller. If I need more buttons I often find myself either springing for the old reliable XBox Common Controller for Windows, or in recent years my All Controller.
I still want to give a shout out to the Hori Fighting Commander pad which is basically a Saturn layout but with 4 should buttons and turbo settings. Obviously not sufficient for N64 or even some of the later psx games, but gets me 95% there.
I ended up getting the blister setup. I got the adapters for it. For retro controllers. LLPA. There is snak as well. probably the same. Now has 2 to 4 inputs. good stuff. before only 1 reason i got the blister. Is usb newer controller just as good? I haven't even tried. Your kinda using a old controller with snak, blister. like a switch or ps5 controller. (why is the ps5 controller so big.) Enjoying the MiSTer. good stuff. Id probably not get a chance in getting a neogeo. Now i can play it. one of the best retro console for sure.
I actually think the Nintendo Switch Online N64 controller makes a great controller for everything that doesn’t need dual analog. It has the 6-button arcade layout, it has shoulder and trigger buttons, it has force-feedback, it has wired and wireless operation, and it has single-stick analog appropriate for Saturn, Atari 5200, Genesis/PC Engine, and (of course) N64. It has the most flexible layout for the retro consoles and arcades covered by the MiSTer, IMO.
@@VideoGameEsoterica Well, it’s the opposite of “cramped” for the digital position since it’s actually pretty wide. For analog use, sure, but so was the N64… and it’s hard to beat a perfect replica for N64 use. So few games on Saturn and PlayStation would ever even need analog that I’d rather just use a dual analog controller for those when I need them… and who doesn’t have a SIXAXS, DualShock 3, DS4, or DualSense around? Crap. Even more reminders that I still need to get a Bluetooth module! I actually have that RetroBit Bluetooth Saturn pad you recommend from a Secret Santa two years ago and never tested it. If it has the problem you mention I won’t be able to return it. :(
My favorite part of the MiSTer is that it's by far the easiest platform to set controllers up on. I honestly wish that literally any other emulation platform on the planet had a controller configuration menu as good as MiSTer's. Heck, I'd pay for something like "GroovyMAME" style integration but just for the controller I/O.
Hey VGE!! Great video! Could you possibly do a video on what port/setup has the least lag? Is the reflex adapter to USB better or is the SNAC adapter? @whatskenmaking did a video on this but didn't really didn't answer the question. He also talked about the Blister add-on. I'm all about a lag free experience. Thanks again and keep up the good work. Your videos finally convinced me to get a Mister and I love it!
I have a retrobit Saturn controller but ever since I got a white 8bitdo M30 it hasn't been used. The build quality of 8bitdo products is vastly superior. For non SEGA consoles I use an 8bitdo pro 2 and for neo geo and arcade cores I use an 8bitdo arcade stick
I took your advice and ordered a pc engine controller from 8bitdo. I have a neogeo x arcade stick and I need to make a db15 to usb adapter with pi pico via the GP-2040-CE project. I need to look into an n64 controller.
For the N64 core I've been using a 8bitdo modkit for the original N64 controller. The only issue I have with it is that I can't decide if I prefer the original stick or the 8bitdo hall effect stick. 😂
@@VideoGameEsoterica Works wonderfully for me, decent price, native feeling. Keep in mind I'm just a casual player, not a pro player or speedrunner. The only thing missing for me is the one thing I didn't really try too hard to get working: rumble support. It supports wired USB, it did crash some kernel versions when connecting it with USB to an old RetroPie system that I hadn't updated in a while, but I think that's been fixed already. Using bluetooth it has two modes: D-Input for better compatibility with PCs and most other devices and Switch, for using with the NSO, both modes work fine on the MiSTer. The nice thing about it is that it can work with original stick modules, compatible alternatives or their own NGC style hall effect module. If you have a SteelSticks module, it will work just fine. You can also use their Hall Effect module on an original N64 controller. It can be paired to two devices, it shows two different MAC address, one for D-Input mode and one for Switch mode, I managed to pair on D-Input mode to my laptop and it'll connect and just work with it even if I switch to D-Input mode with the controller already turned on, but if I switch back to Switch mode, I couldn't get it to work with the MiSTer right away. Something in the way MiSTer is handling bluetooth makes it way more complicated... I had to ssh into MiSTer, open bluetoothctl and manually remove, pair again, tell it to connect and trust the device before I could get it to work on MiSTer again. Still haven't tried using it with the 8bitdo bluetooth adapter to check if it's better at handling such transitions or not. Using D-Input mode it has SOCD filtering on the C directional buttons, but there's no such filtering on the Switch mode. I'm not sure if that matters to any games, I just noticed and found it a little curious when testing it with a controller test ROM.
If Retrobit hadn't dropped the ball on that dual analog SEGA Saturn controller that could have covered everything. But no analog triggers made it a bust.
Is it possible to use those official Nintendo Switch Online NES, SNES & Genesis controllers, but with a detachable wired USB cable with MiSTer? If so, how much latency would those controllers add? I plan on using Wired USB cabled controllers like the 8BitDo SN30 Pro, Origin8 and Retro-bit's 6-button Genesis Controller. I've heard some of these add an additional 1-2ms of lag, but I'm not entirely sure. The goal is to pair a MiSTer(For playing 8-16 bit games) using it's analogue port and connecting that to a CRT(27" Sony WEGA Trinitron). That would mean zero lag coming from MiSTer's analogue port & zero lag from the CRT. All that's left is USB controller latency. :P
@@VideoGameEsoterica Yikes! Guess I'll just be sticking with those wired USB 8bitdo and Retro-bit controllers instead. 8bitdo still doesn't sell NES & Turbo GraFx wired USB controllers. They at least sell the wireless PCEngine 2.4g, which i hear has about 4ms of latency via it's USB dongle. Retro-bit's Origin8 just isn't as good as 8bitdo's N30 2.4g either. I guess it's Origin8 or maybe just mapping the NES & TGFX B&A buttons to the SN30 Pro.
Ive been using 8BitDo M30 BT controller with the MiSTer. I absolutely LOVE this controller!! I also have a SN30 Pro, but i actually hate the analog sticks and never use it because of them. I wish 8BitDo would make a proper SNES controller with a home and fav button (I have the older one, without the home and fav button. But don't use it with the MiSTer because of the lack of those buttons). I have been back and forth on getting a second M30 for 2 player. I have been curious about getting the 8BitDo Arcade Stick. I also have a Wii Mote for Light Gun games!! Playing Duck Hunt on a 65" modern 4k TV. Freaking Amazing!!! Tho, you didn't cover anything about controller config or how to use multiple controllers for multiplayer in the video :( (something I specifically was looking forward to, as NO ONE covers this). How do you connect multiple controllers to a MiSter for Multiplayer? How do you know what controller is what player? Does changing the config of one of the controllers affect the others? Does player assignment change when opening and closing cores / games? You just kinda ran thru a bunch of controllers saying that they work... You didn't really explain anything about how to actually USE controllers with the MiSTer :( You talked about SNAc/SNAX and showed them and the adapters for pluggin controllers, but didn't show how to use them? Are they core specific? Can you use a SNES controller via SNAC with cores other than SNES? Something I have been grappling with is controller config for N64 games. As different games want to use the controller differently IE: Crusin USA (Z for Gas) vs Crusin World/Exotica (A for Gas). How do you setup multiple controller configs in a single core for situations like this?? I was hoping you would cover this as well and not a mention of it (other than that the N4 controller is different and creates some difficulties).
My retro-bit wireless Saturn controller broke after a couple of uses. A pivotal piece under the d-pad snapped. But I contacted them and they sent me a new part which I replaced, so fingers 🤞
@@VideoGameEsoterica They said it was some kind of design flaw. Must've been really cheap materials as I look after my stuff and it bust really easily/quickly. Still working after fix at the moment though!
I'm watching the video as I'm typing and realized you mentioned the RetroFi. I have one too (N64 variant), you mind doing a video on that? I'm having a hard time getting it to work with the RMG emulator. I haven't tried it with RetroArch as RMG (to me) has a better n64 emulator. My PC recognizes it but I can't assign the buttons. I don't know if I need a DInput related software installed.
Would the RetroFighter N64 controller work well for Saturn and other 6 button consoles? I'm thinking of keeping my controller collection simple for now, so getting the 8bitdo Pro for 4 button consoles, and one of the N64 inspired controller for 6 button consoles (haven't decided on which one yet).
Awesome video as always!! Thanks! Totally off topic, but wondering if someone might see this. Playstation core seems to have some crazy slowdown happening while I'm playing through Castlevania SOTN. Especially in the reverse castle. Anyone else have this issue? I know it's a long shot, and I'm 98% it doesn't have the slowdown on OG hardware from what I remember. Thanks! 😊
@VideoGameEsoterica i think you're right, and I jumped the gun. I watched some playthroughs that were recorded on actual PS1s, and they also had some slowdown in certain parts. Although, what I experienced seemed a little more than what I was seeing? It's hard to say. Anyway, I finished playing through the game today. Lol. Thanks so much for responding to my dumb observation. Love your videos!
You can't beat a Super Famicom pad for nearly all situations. I play Street Fighter II, Truxton, Super Mario World and Castlevania with one. Dual Shock 3 is my top pad for 3D games. BTW, I'd like to buy that Saturn USB pad with the sticks that was released last month. I want it for Steam, specifically to play KOFXV but I don't want to waste money on it if it doesn't work with Steam fighting games. Can anybody confirm it works? Thank You.
@@VideoGameEsoterica My white (Japanese) Dual Shock 3 is really light. Some people complain about it but it's a good thing, imo. Later Dual Shocks almost double in weight.
I've had issues getting my Saturn 3D Control Pad working and I am not sure if it's an issue with the controller itself or something in my configuration. Should it just work or is there some hoop jumping required to get it to work right? I am trying to use the SNAC version of the core and a Saturn adapter with my MiSTerCade.
Hi! Thanks for a good review. Personally I would like to have an old-style joystick similar to what we used for C64 and Amiga back in the days. I have tried the Speedlink Competition Pro, but didn't like it much. Does anyone know of a good alternative?
I’ve been using Raphnet dual N64 to USB adapters, which are generally great except it uses the analog stick as either Dpad or stick (switchable in menu) and forces Right on the actual Dpad as the Mister menu button :/
@@PopeTheRevXXVIII I have like 10 original N64 controllers and some USB adapters, but I mostly bought the Brawler64 for compatibility with the vast majority of games across multiple console and arcade emulators. Having six buttons on the face is seriously underrated. I basically can't play Streets of Rage 3 without six buttons due to the combo system. Fighting games like X-Men COTA, etc. Don't leave home without it!
@@nathanddrews see I'm actually using mine with the N64 and only the N64. Best 6 button pad is Razer's Rion which they unfortunately don't make anymore it's an Amazing pad.
9:58 There's also Raphnet's Turbografx-to-USB controller adapters. Or is there some advantage these SNAC/Reflex HDMI adapters have over USB converters?
@@VideoGameEsoterica The use of hdmi cables is bizarre to me. On my Mister Multisystem, it means I'd need to have a controller cable going all the way into the back of the console to reach the port instead of the convenient 4 USB ports at the front.
I'm kinda surprised that there seems to be almost no custom gaming controllers outside the custom arcade stick / hitbox clone style controllers. I suppose we already have so many "good enough" options out there, almost nobody is really itching to have a single controller that could work as a "one size fits all" solution, if that's possible, that is... I'm not sure what would be actually considered a desirable controller to play PSX, N64, Saturn and arcade games.
I am planning to buy a Mister this year. Every recommended build I find on RUclips says I need the analog IO. I dont and wont have any CRT TV or monitor. Do I need the analog IO for anything besides video out?
Nope. Get a digital IO. If you don’t want to use analog just go digital. I do recommend SOME IO as you get the three top buttons for user commands, etc. very useful
Here are all my best friends and where they come in to help 8bitdo N30 - NES, Game Boy, PC Engine 8bitdo SN30 Pro - SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, PSX N64 Controller with 8bitdo Mod Kit - N64 Dualsense 3 - PSX 8bitdo M30 - Master System, Mega Drive (and friends), Sega Saturn 8bitdo LIte 2 - General Use 8bitdo N30 Arcade Stick - Arcade games 8bitdo NeoGeo Pad - Neo Geo Nintendo Switch Pro Controller - General Use
@@VideoGameEsoterica it uses the same cables, but the ports are built-in with a different version of the official case I got from mister addons way back, using the user port (monopolizing it)
Just an extra tip: those 8Bitdo wireless adapters work with any bluetooth controller and are better than regular Bluetooth dongles. They connect fast, stay reliable, and sync easily. The only downside is you’ll need one adapter for each controller, but it’s totally worth it for the better experience.
They work perfectly with Nintendo switch online pads too (SNES,N64) something most generic bluetooth adapters struggle with.
And you don’t need to enter Mister Bluetooth setting at all.
Good to know
Love controller guide videos!
I've been using both the Retro Fighters Brawler and Hunter on the N64, Saturn, and PS and they have both performed really well. The Hunter OG Xbox layout works well for 3D games and it has Hall Effect joysticks/triggers.
For arcade and console fighting games I find myself using the 8BitDo M30 (works both in wireless Bluetooth and wired USB mode) and it's D-pad can't be beat for flawless "hadoukees". Love its new(ish) Saturn colorway too.
A close second would be the Retro-Bit Sega Genesis 8-Button USB Arcade Pad. Feels just the original but with added shoulder buttons and a much more functional Mode button.
For SNES games, 8BitDo SN30pro is as good as it gets. And you gotta love the microswitches on the 8BitDo SNK controller.
I can’t tell enough people to get a Brawler
The dual sense via bluetooth is a revelation. From the testing out there i think its the quickest input latency period? Retro-bit tribute 64 with the usb receiver has been super nice too 🤙🏻
I’ve heard good things about the Tribute
@@VideoGameEsoterica I like it! Supports vibration as well, but I don't know if I'll ever use it lol
Vibration in the N64 / PS1 cores is a good time. Like the real thing
The Tribute 64 Wireless is outstanding. Specifically the wireless version, which is an improved version of original corded Tribute 64 and is less cramped, has a more reasonably-sized dpad, and has much better articulating shoulder buttons. As someone who is a compulsive controller buyer, it means a lot when I say it's one of the most comfortable controllers I own. The only thing I would fault it for is its anemic rumble motor, but I gladly still choose it over any other N64 controller for all the things it does right.
Great guide, the 8bitdo M30 v2 bluetooth is my go to controller, perfect for Saturn and arcade cores.
I need to pick one of those up
The 2.4 GHz version is even better.
Wireless vs Bluetooth: the eternal debate
@@VideoGameEsoterica For some weird reason, Bluetooth HID seems to be way less robust when handling a noisy environment and connection issues than other protocols. It's not just controllers, it's very noticeable with keyboards and trackballs as well.
I'm not sure if it's something inherent to Bluetooth or if it's just that most Bluetooth implementations suck at handling such issues. Let's hope it's not all bad, I'm about to build a split keyboard and I'd really love to use it in wireless mode. 😅
See in my house Bluetooth is sometimes better. We have plaster walls (building was built in 1890) with chicken wire in the plaster. Vintage building. Giant faraday cage. So sometimes wifi gets eaten up by the chicken wire vs Bluetooth which stays more consistent
Been a sucker for 8bitdo, good quality and cheap. Lots of retro controllers.
They do come in at a good price point and their NGCD controller is top notch
Me too, I can't stop buying their products 😂
Haha that’s what they want. And it’s working
I did get the 8bitdo PC-E pad by your recommendation before for MiSTer, and it has been excellent. I didn't grow up with a PC-E but using it for NES has been incredible. Glad to see an update!
That’s the best part. It’s perfect for NES too
I'm a chaos gremlin who has been playing Fighters' Destiny on the N64 core with a Buffalo Pad.
Chaos gremlin 🤣
COMPLETELY off topic well, sorta.. I just got a Steam Deck off a friend. 64 GB model (I upgraded it to 2 TB NVMe & 1 TB Micro SD + GuliKit Hall Effect joysticks). Anyway the point I dug out my Steam Controller & realized how much I missed using it. I used it with the Link till I got a Shield TV 2017. I think it’s fitting . I now use it again as a controller for the deck when it’s docked.
It’s a fun controller. You can 100% see how they got from that controller to the Steam Deck itself
@@VideoGameEsoterica exactly it’s like the natural progression of its evolution. I still hope one day they circle back around and update the controller I could do without the left trackpad and take a real d pad. And maybe split the backside triggers, so you have the equal amount of buttons I do absolutely love the right haptic trackpad. It’s perfect & smooth, for camera positioning I almost prefer it to using a joystick to do it. And I’ve already found myself doing the same thing on the decks, right hand trackpad
You never know what Valve will do next
Retrobit Sega Saturn USB (most cores I use), 3rd Party 360 Controller (Pre-2020) (Specifically N64), PS3 Qanba Drone with a Brook Zero-Pi fitted inside of it (Mainly Arcade Cores) and a NES SNAC to play NES Tetris has been my go to for years now. I need to get my hands on the iBuffalo SNES controller (If you know, you know) and Lately I'd love for the Sega Saturn SNAC to work in order to use my Saturn Controllers (including my Fight Stick).
People either love or hate the Retrobit Saturn controller. A bad batch must have gotten out because I love mine and I know a lot of people that do but others will say it’s horrible
@@VideoGameEsoterica I don't know if it makes a difference but all of my controllers are wired (intentionally). I also got my RetroBit controller maybe 2017 or 2018. I can't speak for those who purchased theirs post-pandemic.
It’s less about connection and more about bad D pads from what I’ve heard. Hence my assumption a bad batch got out because my D pad is 95% as good as an original Saturn pad
Mostly been going my way to get as many OG controller setups as I can, preferably wireless while shooting for decently low latency if possible.
- NES + SNES I've used 8bitdo's DIY Kits for both NES/SNES Classic-controllers for comfortable wireless gaming on Nintendo-systems or even platformers on PS1 such as Rayman.
- For SEGA-consoles, the Retro-Bit's Bluetooth Saturn Arcade 8-Button Pad has been a favourite pick-up + play controller in general - as of late I've also got the wired 3-Button Pad from Genesis Mini and play more earlier Genesis-titles with that sometimes.
- PS1 I use Dualshock 3, though maybe someday I might wanna get SNAC for Dualshock 2 or even original Dualshock. Also do have PS Classic's wired Digital Pad, but hardly use it actually.
- For N64 I actually use a red OG controller with Mayflash N64 USB Adapter V2 - the lag on it seems pretty minimal, and hopefully later on we'll be getting a firmware update that allows for Rumble Pak-support.
- With Turbografx I actually went all my way to buy the PC Engine Hori Mini-controller from Ebay (cost me quite a bit tho) - not only has it been nice for TG16 but I've also come to prefer using it for Master System and MSX (helps with it's shooters especially)
- With Arcade I have some interesting choices such as Taito's Egret Mini 2's wired Joystick with 4-way/8-way switch for easy transition between early 80s to 90s' classics - though I also have a Venom Arcade Stick + 3rd party NES Advantage-controller for NES Classic that I modified for 4-way games a bit.
For N64 I’d really look at Reflex Adapt or any of the SNAX adapters. I’ve found them to be the best by far
I went for a TP-Link AC1300 Archer T3U for the wifi adapter, you pay more but it's signal is very robust and 5GHz capable. A lot bigger of course but then more room for the antennae. Seemed to do the best in benchmarking without getting into the silly price category.
Antennae are just MiSTers ears
I feel so lucky I got a iBuffalo SNES controller a decade ago. Also use an 8Bitdo Genesis / DualSense / and I got a 8Bitdo NEOGEO recently. That retro-fighters n64 controller looks nice. I kind of want to make a pelican case for all of my controllers. Or 3D print holding trays so they can go in a tool chest drawer. How do you organize your controllers?
In my desk drawer. I have two large drawers with them all laid out nicely. Well sometimes nicely. It can get to be a mess if not kept up with
My go-to for the MiSTer is an 8BitDo Pro 2 controller over Bluetooth.
Puts together a quality SNES-style D-Pad with a modern control layout, and is perfect for just about everything on the system excluding Sega Genesis games. (Even then, the controls work well enough for it; it’s just an issue of three-button control mapping to a controller with four face buttons being a bit awkward.)
It’s nice 8BitDo is recreating so many of the classics and doing modern stuff too
I’m surprised you didn’t mention the 8bitdo M30! I use the 2.4g version as my main MiSTer controller and it is an absolute dream. Feels very close to Sega Saturn and the build quality is excellent (despite the mixed build quality issues I’ve had with 8bitdo sometimes)
Just haven’t picked one up yet. I wish I could buy everything for every video but I’ve gotta pick and choose
I have that Saturn pad, and I was planning on trying to use it for my MiSTer & SaTurn but I couldn’t get it mapped properly in the core. Works great on the actual Saturn.
Great video. My setup is Playstation 5 controller with Edimax bluetooth and 8bitdo M30 2.4G sega genesis mini controller. Seems to cover basically everything.
The Edimax has been very reliable
The new Saturn Pro pad makes a surprisingly decent N64 controller. The six-button layout maps well to A, B and the C buttons, and it has analog and d-pad both in easy reach.
I do wish they'd mapped the second shoulder buttons to stick click instead of the C/Y buttons.
I’d recommend that but it doesn’t have analog triggers and Saturn did. Odd miss
Jonathos... does it work with Steam?
@@VideoGameEsotericaNo argument, but I'm not using it to play Saturn analog games, so it's not the dealbreaker it would be for some.
I have to assume it's because they're also targeting it as a Switch controller, and it doesn't do analog triggers. But that's a bad decision if so.
@@simon41978Yeah, when using the USB receiver it presents as a standard controller. Only hangup is that two of the shoulder buttons get mirrored to Z/C buttons.
It would be easy to have a digital mode to accommodate
My favorite Arcade sticks right now is the Hori Alpha. I got 2 heavily modded with Aluminum panels and Seimitsu buttons, 2lb Arcade shock spring. I use both all the time one is Xbox the other is PlayStation.
It’s funny I don’t own a modern arcade stick from an arcade stick maker. I just love making my own in random enclosures
That's next on the to do list. I have MAS sticks I want to modernize too.
But the Hori Alphas have exceeded my expectations. And I'll probably get more too 😂😂
I need to build another stick soon. Just gotta find the enclosure
Yeah I haven't seem many enclosures in stock lately.
The Octo stick has my attention too multi system compatibility, primarily made for Dreamcast. Looks like something that was torn off of a Candy Cab.
Using Obsidian 2. Works 100% perfect ❤
I’ve heard good things. I just love making my own sticks. I need to do a new build soon
@@VideoGameEsoterica My Obsidian is fully modded. More expensive than the full Mister ... I wanted best possible Arcade feeeling
That’s fair. I’ve got a CAVE / AMI control panel off a cabinet in my closet begging for a mod video. I just need to figure out the enclosure
@@VideoGameEsoterica Cave is the absoulte dream of shmups !!!!
I do love me some CAVE
I love to use the USB controller that came with the Sega Genesis Mini. It has really low latency and feels like the original.
Second person to recommend that one
I've been using the 8bitdo Neo Geo CD controller a lot lately. I love that controller for shmups!
I’ve been using it for damn near every 2D system with four face buttons
I agree about the Retrobit Sega Saturn wireless controller. It’s excellent and just as good as the original Japanese Sega Saturn pad. I prefer both the Retrobit Saturn and Genesis pads over the 8Bitdo M30. They look and feel identical to the originals.
People 90% love them and 10% of owners hate them. I really think they just have had a bad production run
My go to has often either been a MegaDrive Mini six button controller or a Playstation Classic controller. If I need more buttons I often find myself either springing for the old reliable XBox Common Controller for Windows, or in recent years my All Controller.
I’ve yet to use any of the Mini console controllers
I still want to give a shout out to the Hori Fighting Commander pad which is basically a Saturn layout but with 4 should buttons and turbo settings. Obviously not sufficient for N64 or even some of the later psx games, but gets me 95% there.
I’ve heard good things about that one
I ended up getting the blister setup. I got the adapters for it. For retro controllers. LLPA. There is snak as well. probably the same. Now has 2 to 4 inputs. good stuff. before only 1 reason i got the blister.
Is usb newer controller just as good? I haven't even tried. Your kinda using a old controller with snak, blister. like a switch or ps5 controller. (why is the ps5 controller so big.)
Enjoying the MiSTer. good stuff. Id probably not get a chance in getting a neogeo. Now i can play it. one of the best retro console for sure.
Modern usb stuff gets very close
I actually think the Nintendo Switch Online N64 controller makes a great controller for everything that doesn’t need dual analog. It has the 6-button arcade layout, it has shoulder and trigger buttons, it has force-feedback, it has wired and wireless operation, and it has single-stick analog appropriate for Saturn, Atari 5200, Genesis/PC Engine, and (of course) N64. It has the most flexible layout for the retro consoles and arcades covered by the MiSTer, IMO.
It’s really just down to if you find that controller comfortable or not. I am firmly “cramps my hand” camp lol
@@VideoGameEsoterica Well, it’s the opposite of “cramped” for the digital position since it’s actually pretty wide. For analog use, sure, but so was the N64… and it’s hard to beat a perfect replica for N64 use. So few games on Saturn and PlayStation would ever even need analog that I’d rather just use a dual analog controller for those when I need them… and who doesn’t have a SIXAXS, DualShock 3, DS4, or DualSense around?
Crap. Even more reminders that I still need to get a Bluetooth module! I actually have that RetroBit Bluetooth Saturn pad you recommend from a Secret Santa two years ago and never tested it. If it has the problem you mention I won’t be able to return it. :(
Yes I should say analog
My favorite part of the MiSTer is that it's by far the easiest platform to set controllers up on. I honestly wish that literally any other emulation platform on the planet had a controller configuration menu as good as MiSTer's.
Heck, I'd pay for something like "GroovyMAME" style integration but just for the controller I/O.
Yes it genuinely is just basically plug and play
The RetroBit 8 Button Genesis Controller (might only be wired? That's the one I use) is also excellent for Saturn!
Yeah same basic button amount works well
Hey VGE!! Great video! Could you possibly do a video on what port/setup has the least lag? Is the reflex adapter to USB better or is the SNAC adapter? @whatskenmaking did a video on this but didn't really didn't answer the question. He also talked about the Blister add-on. I'm all about a lag free experience. Thanks again and keep up the good work. Your videos finally convinced me to get a Mister and I love it!
Reflex is so incredible close to SNAC as to be indistinguishable but SNAC is the mathematical winner
I use the 8bitdo SN30 Pro and M30 primarily with MiSTer. PS4 I use for Playstation.
PS4 is obv a perfect PSX core controller
I have a retrobit Saturn controller but ever since I got a white 8bitdo M30 it hasn't been used. The build quality of 8bitdo products is vastly superior.
For non SEGA consoles I use an 8bitdo pro 2 and for neo geo and arcade cores I use an 8bitdo arcade stick
Retrobit makes a nice controller. It’s true
I took your advice and ordered a pc engine controller from 8bitdo. I have a neogeo x arcade stick and I need to make a db15 to usb adapter with pi pico via the GP-2040-CE project. I need to look into an n64 controller.
I love the PC Engine controller. Perfect layout for the core
For the N64 core I've been using a 8bitdo modkit for the original N64 controller. The only issue I have with it is that I can't decide if I prefer the original stick or the 8bitdo hall effect stick. 😂
How are those? I’ve heard mixed things
@@VideoGameEsoterica Works wonderfully for me, decent price, native feeling. Keep in mind I'm just a casual player, not a pro player or speedrunner. The only thing missing for me is the one thing I didn't really try too hard to get working: rumble support.
It supports wired USB, it did crash some kernel versions when connecting it with USB to an old RetroPie system that I hadn't updated in a while, but I think that's been fixed already. Using bluetooth it has two modes: D-Input for better compatibility with PCs and most other devices and Switch, for using with the NSO, both modes work fine on the MiSTer.
The nice thing about it is that it can work with original stick modules, compatible alternatives or their own NGC style hall effect module. If you have a SteelSticks module, it will work just fine. You can also use their Hall Effect module on an original N64 controller.
It can be paired to two devices, it shows two different MAC address, one for D-Input mode and one for Switch mode, I managed to pair on D-Input mode to my laptop and it'll connect and just work with it even if I switch to D-Input mode with the controller already turned on, but if I switch back to Switch mode, I couldn't get it to work with the MiSTer right away. Something in the way MiSTer is handling bluetooth makes it way more complicated... I had to ssh into MiSTer, open bluetoothctl and manually remove, pair again, tell it to connect and trust the device before I could get it to work on MiSTer again. Still haven't tried using it with the 8bitdo bluetooth adapter to check if it's better at handling such transitions or not.
Using D-Input mode it has SOCD filtering on the C directional buttons, but there's no such filtering on the Switch mode. I'm not sure if that matters to any games, I just noticed and found it a little curious when testing it with a controller test ROM.
Good to know. I’ll try and check one out 👍
If Retrobit hadn't dropped the ball on that dual analog SEGA Saturn controller that could have covered everything. But no analog triggers made it a bust.
That was a huge oversight
nice collection
Just scratching the surface too haha
Is it possible to use those official Nintendo Switch Online NES, SNES & Genesis controllers, but with a detachable wired USB cable with MiSTer? If so, how much latency would those controllers add?
I plan on using Wired USB cabled controllers like the 8BitDo SN30 Pro, Origin8 and Retro-bit's 6-button Genesis Controller. I've heard some of these add an additional 1-2ms of lag, but I'm not entirely sure. The goal is to pair a MiSTer(For playing 8-16 bit games) using it's analogue port and connecting that to a CRT(27" Sony WEGA Trinitron). That would mean zero lag coming from MiSTer's analogue port & zero lag from the CRT. All that's left is USB controller latency. :P
Latency I don’t have the chart in front of me but I know NSO N64 has MORE latency wired than wireless oddly
@@VideoGameEsoterica
Yikes! Guess I'll just be sticking with those wired USB 8bitdo and Retro-bit controllers instead. 8bitdo still doesn't sell NES & Turbo GraFx wired USB controllers. They at least sell the wireless PCEngine 2.4g, which i hear has about 4ms of latency via it's USB dongle.
Retro-bit's Origin8 just isn't as good as 8bitdo's N30 2.4g either. I guess it's Origin8 or maybe just mapping the NES & TGFX B&A buttons to the SN30 Pro.
Ive been using 8BitDo M30 BT controller with the MiSTer. I absolutely LOVE this controller!! I also have a SN30 Pro, but i actually hate the analog sticks and never use it because of them. I wish 8BitDo would make a proper SNES controller with a home and fav button (I have the older one, without the home and fav button. But don't use it with the MiSTer because of the lack of those buttons). I have been back and forth on getting a second M30 for 2 player. I have been curious about getting the 8BitDo Arcade Stick. I also have a Wii Mote for Light Gun games!! Playing Duck Hunt on a 65" modern 4k TV. Freaking Amazing!!! Tho, you didn't cover anything about controller config or how to use multiple controllers for multiplayer in the video :( (something I specifically was looking forward to, as NO ONE covers this). How do you connect multiple controllers to a MiSter for Multiplayer? How do you know what controller is what player? Does changing the config of one of the controllers affect the others? Does player assignment change when opening and closing cores / games? You just kinda ran thru a bunch of controllers saying that they work... You didn't really explain anything about how to actually USE controllers with the MiSTer :( You talked about SNAc/SNAX and showed them and the adapters for pluggin controllers, but didn't show how to use them? Are they core specific? Can you use a SNES controller via SNAC with cores other than SNES? Something I have been grappling with is controller config for N64 games. As different games want to use the controller differently IE: Crusin USA (Z for Gas) vs Crusin World/Exotica (A for Gas). How do you setup multiple controller configs in a single core for situations like this?? I was hoping you would cover this as well and not a mention of it (other than that the N4 controller is different and creates some difficulties).
Yes having the home and back buttons is so useful on MiSTer so as to not have to get up and go push the IO buttons
My retro-bit wireless Saturn controller broke after a couple of uses. A pivotal piece under the d-pad snapped. But I contacted them and they sent me a new part which I replaced, so fingers 🤞
They must have changed factories or something
@@VideoGameEsoterica They said it was some kind of design flaw. Must've been really cheap materials as I look after my stuff and it bust really easily/quickly. Still working after fix at the moment though!
Could be a bad injection molding too. Sometimes you get weak spots randomly
@@VideoGameEsoterica Oh right OK, more than likely that then. They are great controllers otherwise.
No mention of blisster or the bliss box pro adapter has me a little bummed out.
Just not something I have
I'm watching the video as I'm typing and realized you mentioned the RetroFi. I have one too (N64 variant), you mind doing a video on that? I'm having a hard time getting it to work with the RMG emulator. I haven't tried it with RetroArch as RMG (to me) has a better n64 emulator. My PC recognizes it but I can't assign the buttons. I don't know if I need a DInput related software installed.
Possibly in the future :)
Would the RetroFighter N64 controller work well for Saturn and other 6 button consoles? I'm thinking of keeping my controller collection simple for now, so getting the 8bitdo Pro for 4 button consoles, and one of the N64 inspired controller for 6 button consoles (haven't decided on which one yet).
I don’t know if it would work well but it would work
Awesome video as always!! Thanks!
Totally off topic, but wondering if someone might see this. Playstation core seems to have some crazy slowdown happening while I'm playing through Castlevania SOTN. Especially in the reverse castle. Anyone else have this issue? I know it's a long shot, and I'm 98% it doesn't have the slowdown on OG hardware from what I remember. Thanks! 😊
It should run fine. You sure it’s not just slowing down? Original game would do that in spots
@VideoGameEsoterica i think you're right, and I jumped the gun.
I watched some playthroughs that were recorded on actual PS1s, and they also had some slowdown in certain parts. Although, what I experienced seemed a little more than what I was seeing? It's hard to say. Anyway, I finished playing through the game today. Lol. Thanks so much for responding to my dumb observation. Love your videos!
Certain attack animations, magic and even effects can cause more slowdown at random spots on real hardware too
@@VideoGameEsoterica agreed! Mine wasn't a very scientific comparison. Thanks for your reply! :)
You can't beat a Super Famicom pad for nearly all situations.
I play Street Fighter II, Truxton, Super Mario World and Castlevania with one.
Dual Shock 3 is my top pad for 3D games.
BTW, I'd like to buy that Saturn USB pad with the sticks that was released last month.
I want it for Steam, specifically to play KOFXV but I don't want to waste money on it if it doesn't work with Steam fighting games. Can anybody confirm it works? Thank You.
I’d say there’s no bad dual shock. All great
@@VideoGameEsoterica
My white (Japanese) Dual Shock 3 is really light. Some people complain about it but it's a good thing, imo. Later Dual Shocks almost double in weight.
You need enough weight for it to feel sturdy but not so much it feels heavy
The retro-bit Tribute 64 is another decent n64 option
I’ve seen it in the comments a lot. I’ll have to check it out
What is the RCA-style port on the back of the SNAX used for?
Light Guns
Where's the link to the USB dongle referenced in 1:18 am I blind?
I've had issues getting my Saturn 3D Control Pad working and I am not sure if it's an issue with the controller itself or something in my configuration. Should it just work or is there some hoop jumping required to get it to work right? I am trying to use the SNAC version of the core and a Saturn adapter with my MiSTerCade.
SNAC on Saturn isn’t finalized yet so expect odd behavior
Hi!
Thanks for a good review. Personally I would like to have an old-style joystick similar to what we used for C64 and Amiga back in the days. I have tried the Speedlink Competition Pro, but didn't like it much. Does anyone know of a good alternative?
Glad you liked it
I’ve been using Raphnet dual N64 to USB adapters, which are generally great except it uses the analog stick as either Dpad or stick (switchable in menu) and forces Right on the actual Dpad as the Mister menu button :/
That’s def not where you want menu lol
The Brawler64 is seriously my favorite controller. Until this one arrived, I was struggling to find decent 6-button controllers.
It’s awesome. I love the OG N64 controller in theory but in gameplay it just hurts the hell out of my thumb in half an hour or less
It makes N64 playable in 99% of use cases
@@PopeTheRevXXVIII I have like 10 original N64 controllers and some USB adapters, but I mostly bought the Brawler64 for compatibility with the vast majority of games across multiple console and arcade emulators. Having six buttons on the face is seriously underrated. I basically can't play Streets of Rage 3 without six buttons due to the combo system. Fighting games like X-Men COTA, etc. Don't leave home without it!
@@nathanddrews see I'm actually using mine with the N64 and only the N64.
Best 6 button pad is Razer's Rion which they unfortunately don't make anymore it's an Amazing pad.
That’s a lot. I’ve got two I use and one NOS in my storage
Are you me? We have almost the same stuff I have way too may controllers but I'm ready for 6 player X-Men!
Haha brothers from another controller mother
What mod have you done to the Neo Geo Arcade Stick Pro?
Here you go : Neo Geo Arcade Stick Pro Mods! Sanwa Stick with Seimitsu Buttons! Making the Pro PRO! Tutorial
ruclips.net/video/Hi5Ddnd1UDw/видео.html
You didn't show the Saturn like you have but with the 2 analogue sticks, i have one and use it for most cores.
I won’t recommend that one. The triggers aren’t analog. Saturn analog pad also has analog shoulders so I consider that a miss
Do the NSO SNES and N64 controllers work with that Bluetooth dongle?
N64 does. Haven’t heard on SNES
9:58
There's also Raphnet's Turbografx-to-USB controller adapters. Or is there some advantage these SNAC/Reflex HDMI adapters have over USB converters?
Reflex generally is less latency. SNAC / SNAX is essentially zero latency.
@@VideoGameEsoterica The use of hdmi cables is bizarre to me. On my Mister Multisystem, it means I'd need to have a controller cable going all the way into the back of the console to reach the port instead of the convenient 4 USB ports at the front.
I’ve got a bunch of the raphnet adapters and haven’t had a single issue. SNAC may be better but for my use I’ll stick with the adapters i got.
It’s HDMI into the device and usb out. So you aren’t plugging HDMI direct to MiSTer
@@VideoGameEsoterica Ah... then in that case I might purchase just a single snac/reflex to compare with the other adapter I already own.
Can you connect new original Nintendo Mini and their Bluetooth controllers?
I’d have to ask around but should work fine
I'm kinda surprised that there seems to be almost no custom gaming controllers outside the custom arcade stick / hitbox clone style controllers. I suppose we already have so many "good enough" options out there, almost nobody is really itching to have a single controller that could work as a "one size fits all" solution, if that's possible, that is... I'm not sure what would be actually considered a desirable controller to play PSX, N64, Saturn and arcade games.
It would probably be a mess of buttons and unwieldy
Can't you use the 2.4ghz dongles that come with most of those controllers?
Some
I am planning to buy a Mister this year. Every recommended build I find on RUclips says I need the analog IO. I dont and wont have any CRT TV or monitor. Do I need the analog IO for anything besides video out?
Nope. Get a digital IO. If you don’t want to use analog just go digital. I do recommend SOME IO as you get the three top buttons for user commands, etc. very useful
And honestly if you want the CRT look the filters are SO good now you may not miss it. Not getting rid of mine but they have come such a long way.
@@VideoGameEsotericathank you Video Game Esoterica
👍
Where is the link to the Bluetooth adapter?
Forgot it. Let me dig it up
What’s up with the dust?
I’ll explain one day
Here are all my best friends and where they come in to help
8bitdo N30 - NES, Game Boy, PC Engine
8bitdo SN30 Pro - SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, PSX
N64 Controller with 8bitdo Mod Kit - N64
Dualsense 3 - PSX
8bitdo M30 - Master System, Mega Drive (and friends), Sega Saturn
8bitdo LIte 2 - General Use
8bitdo N30 Arcade Stick - Arcade games
8bitdo NeoGeo Pad - Neo Geo
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller - General Use
A quality list. I too use Switch Pro a lot when capturing. Comfy controller
hmmm no one is talking about Blisster anymore
Just not hardware I have on hand
@@VideoGameEsoterica it uses the same cables, but the ports are built-in with a different version of the official case I got from mister addons way back, using the user port (monopolizing it)
It would be nice to have two user ports but that’s a pipe dream
I have a shockingly high number of controllers...
Me too. Me toooo
I cant recommend the ibuffalo classic controller enough it has the lowest latency of any wired controller ive seen on Mister Fpga
Lotta recs for that one today!
@@VideoGameEsoterica any for the ps3 neo geo controller? Its a rarity ive never seen in the wild lol
I don’t have that one but I know it’s solid
Discord link is expired
Oh yeah. Stupid links
Sprucht viel zu schnell und nuschelt dazu auch noch. Wirklich schlecht zu verstehen.
you better clean your controllers before you develop skin problems
They are clean enough
If he cleans them too much he won’t develop the natural controller resistances
Controller vaccines