Picked up a Sega Master System, for Atari reasons...

[SlowCoder]

I wouldn't say the SMS controllers suck. But they definitely are a PITA when it comes to 8-way directionality. For me this really came to light when I tried playing R-Type. Being able to move diagonally in that game is very important. Other than that, I think the controllers are ok. They seem solid enough, and are pretty responsive. But I still have to say they pale in comparison to the Genesis controllers.

[Pioneer4x4]

I am now looking forward to using the SMS controllers on a 2600, maybe even trying some of the 2 button hacks.

 

The SMS controllers didn't work for the two button hacks when I tried it. It think you need Genesis/Megadrive controllers.

 

Although let me know if you are successful with a SMS controller, maybe mine was broken.

 

One game you must get for the SMS is "Psycho Fox", it's one of my favourite games on any system.

I haven't tried them yet. Actually forgot all about it! I did try the 3D games and the effect was pretty cool. I am getting some new furniture and carpet, so everything is kinda on hold.

[tz101]

This SMS arcade stick works great for VCS and 5200 (adapter required) games.

 

 

[+wood_jl]

Awww... I've always loved the three-button, but mainly for nostalgia value I guess. Sometimes you just need a good third-party three-button, though. I found one with neon 90's buttons and d-pad and it's awesome (and rad). But yeah, I've tried a few SMS pads and I just can't make myself use them. They aren't appropriate for any type of game.

 

Yeah, it's all just opinion, but I prefer the 3-button as well. Unless I need the extra buttons, I always use it, finding it to be quite comfortable. The 6-button pads always seemed kind of cheap, and the d-pad kind of wobbly. Not bad, but not as comfortable as the 3-button. The 3-buttons are so common, every thrift store I see has them in a tub.

 

edit: just realized I was necro-bumping a very old post. Silly me.

Edited April 16, 2011 by wood_jl

[BrianC]

 

Yeah, it's all just opinion, but I prefer the 3-button as well. Unless I need the extra buttons, I always use it, finding it to be quite comfortable. The 6-button pads always seemed kind of cheap, and the d-pad kind of wobbly. Not bad, but not as comfortable as the 3-button. The 3-buttons are so common, every thrift store I see has them in a tub.

 

Quality varies for the official pads, though. There are at least three different models of the official three button pads (the one with the red letters with a stiff d-pad, the black letter one with a better d-pad, and a later 3 button with a different d-pad). There are also three different models of the 6 button, with one similiar to the later/JP Saturn controller, a smaller JP/sega club model, and the later majesco ones that came with the Genesis 3. If the 6 button felt cheap, it was probably the latter. I like the thrid model of the 3 button and the first US model of the 6 button the best.

Edited April 16, 2011 by BrianC

[maiki]

Best classic pad I've ever used are the 6-button Genesis controllers. Unlike the orignal 3-button, they got this one right thanks to a smaller directional pad that was raised a bit. Got to be the most accurate pad ever made.

 

Well, the 3 button Genesis controllers are right too but the best d-pad is in my opinion on Xbox controller-S - the small one sold with later Xbox Ones if someone knows... this is the best console controller not only for brilliant responsive D-Pad but also due to excellent analogue sticks and overall very good ergonomics. With two sticks you can easily play Robotron-style games and it rocks! I even use them on my emulators with USB adaptor since they are basically USB.

 

[Pioneer4x4]

This SMS arcade stick works great for VCS and 5200 (adapter required) games.

 

 

I just bought/won an auction on eBay with one of those, a regular controller, a gun, and a 3-d game I didn't have (Space Harrier), all for $18 shipped.

I am looking forward to trying it out, it definitely is funky looking.

[zylon]

This SMS arcade stick works great for VCS and 5200 (adapter required) games.

 

 

I just bought/won an auction on eBay with one of those, a regular controller, a gun, and a 3-d game I didn't have (Space Harrier), all for $18 shipped.

I am looking forward to trying it out, it definitely is funky looking.

They're better with the top popped off.

[Pioneer4x4]

It arrived today, probably the worst packaging I have seen. I didn't open it, and tempted to return it to post office refused on spite. It is a fruit box (With holes) scotch taped closed. I could see what is in the box without removing any tape, the items are jsut loose in the box big enough for 10 times as much stuff. I assume it is all OK, unless it was totally shaken around. I checked the sellers feedback,and gobs of "Great Packaging" type deals as a seller, I won't totally bash if contents are OK, but sure as hell won't praise. I just grabbed it from my driveway and put it in the house onthe way to work today, so I haven't opened it.