As we know it, controllers have evolved since 1972 when the first controller was released as part of Magnavox Odyssey.We’ve seen many icons and game-changers since then. Console controllers are the staple of any console, and is sometimes the main reason people will choose a specific console.
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It’s also sometimes the main reason people will choose a console over a PC, people want to experience the exclusivity of the controller in hand. For example - the PS2 controller set the standard with its build and the enhancement in gameplay as we know it. The successor - the PS3 controller - was no different with its improvements on the design and wireless capabilities
The Xbox controller is no exception. Ergonomically, it made sense for people to opt for an Xbox JUST for the controller. It was bigger, felt better to hold, and had a unique analog and button layout we haven’t seen before.
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The Gamecube controller? Same thing. They prioritized ease of use and a certain button layout that even kids would be able to easily get the hang of.The goal by the end of this read is to run things back for you, giving you some absolute icons and classics that are excellent and outright exceptional.
We’re talking about the gaming controllers that got many of us (and our parents) into console gaming. The same controllers that are built on memories and nostalgia.With that being said, let’s touch on some of the excellent controllers that you probably resonate with…
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Excellent Controllers
Before we get into the exceptional controllers - we must cover the excellent. Why? It’s because exceptional always follows after excellence. Without a few of the controllers we’re about to mention, we simply wouldn’t have anything to compare the exceptional to. Besides, excellent controllers in their own right set the standard for console gaming and that alone deserves respect.
The Wii Controller
Wii Controllers on Mercari
The Wii Controller for example ditched the whole idea of kicking back and relaxing on the couch. At its time, it was the only Nintendo controller (and one of the only controllers in general) to prioritize motion and not just button pushing (as seen in games such as Wii sports).
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The Sega Saturn Controllers
Sega Saturn Controllers on Mercari
Sega Saturn Controllers focused on traditional gaming while still keeping up with innovation - such as the 3D controller variation. More on this later however.
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Dreamcast Controller
Dreamcast Controllers on Mercari
Another one of Sega’s excellent controllers was the Dreamcast Controller. What made it truly exceptional however is the fact it had a Visual Memory Unit (VMU slot). This was HUGE for gamers as we now crossed the line of handheld and consoles with just a controller. Gamers used the VMU as a secondary screen or a standalone which was much ahead of its time.
N64 Controller
Before we dive into the exceptional - let's talk about a control that blurs the lines between exceptional and excellent… The N64 Controller.
To this very day people are still getting their hands on them. It’s the biggest source of nostalgia for a lot of gamers and what got them into gaming in the first place. Some of the most iconic games were also played using the N64 Controller, such as Mario N64 and Mario Kart 64.
N64 Controllers on Mercari
The sweetest thing about the N64 controller however? Is that in 2023 and 2024, there are N64 controllers that can be used on the switch. That’s right, people loved the N64 so much that to this very day - people still want to use it to play retro games on modern day consoles such as the Nintendo switch.
The compatibility is quite simple. Nintendo released its own wireless version of the N64 controller that can be used on the Switch via the Nintendo Online Membership + Expansion pack. This not only allows you to actually use the controller, but now you have access to the library of retro games that can be used with the N64 controller. So, now that we’ve covered the excellent… What about the exceptional?
Exceptional Controllers
Kids Station Controllers
Let’s face it… video games are the backbone of every gamers’ childhood. The issue however is that depending on the age and how quick they learn, children can find it hard to pick up a standard controller and begin playing their favourite console games. The solution?Enter the Kids Station Controllers. These are designed to be much more kid-friendly and MUCH easier to use.
Kids Station Controllers on Mercari
You can also tell the demographic in which the controllers are made for due to their design and colours. They’re most compatible with education and interactive learning games - the best way for a child to develop whilst having fun!
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A parent shouldn’t shy away from these, since not only are they ideal for young children that want to game… They will also get the educational benefit from it, while providing a family-friendly entertainment experience.
Densha de Go! Controller
Also known as the Densha Go controller, this one actually serves a very specific purpose! Primarily popular in Japan, the controller was made for the “Densha de Go!” series - a game series which one would classify as a train simulation.
Densha de GO! Controllers on Mercari
The controller is all about paying attention to detail and making you feel like you are controlling a train. Much like how a wheel-like controller is fit for race cars, the Densha Go controller is meant for the train simulation. It’s truly like no other of its kind, and seriously enhances the gameplay and gives a very unique experience.
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Jet De Go Controller
Much like how the Densha Go controller is for the train simulation game - the Jet De Go controller is meant for flight simulation games! The purpose is to replicate a pilot experience. Those that are into flight simulation games would absolutely love the experience the Jet De Go controller would give.
Jet de GO! Controllers on Mercari
The best part? It’s not some cheap look alike controller either. It is an exceptional replica and pays great detail to realism. It’s out there as the closest thing you can get to a pilot experience whilst playing flight simulation games.
Dragon Quest Controller
When talking about niche controllers catered to fans of a specific franchise, you simply cannot count out the Dragon Quest controller. Dragon Quest is a fun game and has a very distinct monster species called “Slime”
Dragon Quest Controllers on Mercari
This controller is themed to look like the Slime monster whilst still keeping all the same functions as an everyday console controller. The shape is unique to fit the profile of the Dragon Quest monster, but the functionality remains. You just get an extra collectible that feels exclusive and makes you proud to be a fan of a gaming franchise that puts its fans first when it comes to things like merchandise and collectibles.
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Hatsune Miku Controller
Starting to notice how these exceptional controllers are unique, serve a purpose, and cater to the fans? The Hatsune Miku controller is no different. It’s a controller specifically designed for the “Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA” game series.
Hatsune Miku Controllers on Mercari
Much like the Dragon Quest controller, this too has a themed design that can be seen as a collectible. The cool part however is the unique layout and the enhanced gaming experience. Unlike a traditional controller, the Hatsune Miku controller gives a more “arcade-like” experience, which is definitely different and a breath of fresh air to the “at home console” feel you usually get today.
Sega Saturn Citrus Stick Pro
Remember how we mentioned the Sega Saturn already? This controller is a specific version catered towards the Sega Saturn gaming console, and much like the Hatsune Miku controller went for that “arcade-like” feel due to its robust build including a large joystick and well-spaced buttons.
Sega Saturn Virtua Stick Controllers on Mercari
This is used primarily by fans of retro games, seen as most of them use a controller that is based around a joystick and a few buttons, as well as retro fighting games you would have found in arcades (such as Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat)
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Zelda Pro Controller
Lastly, let’s talk about the Zelda Pro Controller. The Legend of Zelda series is one of the most iconic and revolutionary series in regards to Nintendo and just gaming in general. This controller was designed to be used for the Nintendo Switch, and has a themed appearance that can be used as both a functional controller (like the Switch Pro Controller) and a collectible item.
Zelda Pro Controllers on Amazon
The reason we’re adding this to the list is due to the impact The Legend of Zelda series had since the first game came out in 1986.Couple the Pro Controller (which is functional and widely used everyday) and the themed aesthetic of the legend of Zelda and you get one of the most exceptional controllers on today’s market.
Conclusion
So… Which controller should you get? Chances are, reading this sparked some hidden nostalgia and an itch to try some out.The answer?
It depends. Think about your needs and wants in gaming and see which controller fits your desires the most. Maybe you want a very specific-function controller like the Airplane Go, or a more arcade-like feel in the form of the Sega Saturn Citrus Stick Pro. Regardless, we hope you had just as fun reading this article as we had writing it. Happy gaming!
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