Folks, I used your command code research in actually building a simple, low cost R.O.B controller. The codes were spot on, the magic was the timing of the bits.
It's all explained in a new guide https://learn.adafruit.com/controlling-a-classic-nintendo-r-o-b-robot-using-circuit-playground-express
Hopefully this info will help you and many others in controlling their ROBs without modification or a TV of any type.
Long live R.O.B. The Kitty
https://blog.adafruit.com/2018/05/25/new-guide-controlling-a-classic-nintendo-r-o-b-robot-circuitplaygroundexpress-circuitpython-nintendoamerica-robots/