Unique Video Game Controllers

Form console to console, the controllers that are used to play the games change fom the simple NES controller that featured the 4 buttons and a D-pad to the controllers of today with their motion controls and multiple buttons.

Every console throughout gaming history has also had its fair share of unique, unusual and one off controllers that only work for one game. The amount of construction that goes into designing the circuit boards and casing, the necessary surface mount and manufacturing of the controller and trying to advertise this new product to an audience is very involved so manufacturers need to make sure their new controller is going to sell well. Here’s a look at some of these controllers and the games they are used for.

R.O.B.

R.O.B. is your robotic operating buddy that was available for the original NES and interacts via the system. Only two games were ever released that used the accessory, Gyromite and Stack-Up but R.O.B. was a success due to being something completely new.

R.O.B.

Guitar Hero

The pick up and play nature of Guitar Hero made it popular with a wide range of people and was a big feature throughout many parties. The game was easy enough for anyone to play but got extremely difficult later on so had plenty to master. With a great song list, Guitar Hero III is the best of the series.

Guitar Hero

Donkey Konga

Another music based controller, the Donkey Konga bongo drums were played by following the on screen instructions and banging the drum. The clever electronic manufacture in this product was that it included a built in microphone that picked up claps and made them a feature in the game. Great fun.

Donkey Konga

Dance Mat

For a bit more of an energetic gaming session, a dance mat is your needed accessory. With four directional arrows that you needed to step on, dance games were very popular at both the arcades and at home. The music was the stand out feature of most dance mat games with high energy Japanese pop making it great fun to dance to.

Dance Mat

Steel Battalion

For something a bit different check out this mammoth controller that recreates the control deck for a giant mechwarrior in your own living room. With over 100 buttons and even foot pedals, the controller aimed to draw you into the game and put the full controls of the games Vertical Tanks right in your hands.

Steel Battalion