Play Games in Portrait Mode with New Mini Controller!

If you’re a gamer, you've likely experienced the frustration of playing vertical arcade games on your phone in an uncomfortable way. Enter Max Kern, a modder who has devised a solution to this persistent problem with his innovative Tate Mode mini controller. But does it truly address the issue?

Traditional controllers are designed for landscape mode gaming, similar to what you'd find on a Switch or Steam Deck. Yet, many classic vertical shooters and retro games require you to hold your phone in portrait mode, akin to scrolling through Instagram.

Max Kern's creativity led him to develop a compact USB-C gamepad specifically tailored for portrait-mode or Tate mode gaming. This ingenious device plugs directly into your phone’s USB-C port, eliminating the need for Bluetooth, charging, or additional batteries.

The construction of the Tate Mode mini controller involves a Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip, with the case and buttons 3D-printed through JLCPCB. If you're interested in building your own, Max provides a comprehensive tutorial on his YouTube channel.

Watch Max Kern’s YouTube video on the Tate Mode mini controller here.

The controller utilizes the GP2040-CE firmware and functions as a standard HID controller, making it compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac devices. This versatility is impressive, especially considering its small size.

However, there are some concerns. The design might put strain on the USB-C port, as the gamepad supports part of the phone’s weight. This could lead to potential bending of the connector if not handled carefully.

On Reddit, opinions are mixed. Some users admire the ingenuity but worry about potential hand cramps and overall comfort. Others are more accepting, recognizing it as a unique DIY project rather than a commercial product.

Indeed, it's important to note that Max has shared all the necessary firmware and print files on Thingiverse and Github, encouraging others to engage with and possibly improve upon his design.

What are your thoughts on this innovative little gamepad? We'd love to hear your comments!

Before you go, don't miss out on our latest news about the Zombie Survival Shooting RPG, Darkest Days, now available on Android.