If you're an avid gamer, chances are you've encountered the challenge of playing vertical arcade games on your phone and found the experience less than ideal. Enter the innovative solution by modder Max Kern: the Tate Mode mini controller, designed specifically to tackle this issue. But does it truly resolve the problem?
Traditional controllers are typically engineered for landscape mode, similar to what you'd use on a Switch or Steam Deck. However, for those of us who enjoy classic vertical shooters or retro games, the ideal setup often involves holding your phone in portrait mode, much like scrolling through Instagram.
Max Kern, in his creative endeavor, developed a compact USB-C gamepad tailored for portrait-mode gaming, also known as Tate mode. This nifty device connects directly to your phone's USB-C port, eliminating the need for Bluetooth, charging, or additional batteries.
The construction of the Tate Mode mini controller is impressive, featuring a Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip and a 3D-printed case and buttons crafted through JLCPCB. If you're interested in building your own, Max has generously provided a detailed tutorial on his YouTube channel.
The controller leverages the GP2040-CE firmware, functioning as a standard HID controller, which ensures compatibility across Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac devices. This versatility is quite remarkable for such a compact setup.
However, there's a potential downside to consider. The design might put some strain on the USB-C port, as the gamepad can end up supporting part of the phone's weight. This could lead to the need to support both the phone and the controller during use, risking potential wear and tear on the connector over time.
Feedback on Reddit has been mixed. Some users express admiration for the ingenuity, while others are concerned about potential hand cramps and overall comfort. It's worth noting that the Tate Mode mini controller is more of a DIY project than a commercial product, with Max sharing all the necessary firmware and print files on Thingiverse and Github.
What's your take on this innovative tiny gamepad? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Before you go, don't miss out on our latest coverage of the Zombie Survival Shooting RPG Darkest Days, now available on Android.
