Atari 7800 controller

[kunoh]

I just picked up an old Atari 7800 with a few games. I really like it - brings back all the memories.. including how bad the controller is. Wow! Seriously gives me cramps after 20min of playing Asteroids! I know that the Europeans got a gamepad - but i can't even find any of those on Ebay. I tried to use my Sega Genesis controllers (3 button and 6 button) but those don't work - as in some games the "2nd" button keeps firing. Does anyone know of a place I can get a decent controller for the 7800?

[eSPy]

apparently the sega master system controller works with the 7800
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J4Uqwp35hM

[pepharytheworm]

Here's one on ebay sent out worldwide from spain.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ATARI-Pad-Original- ... 2eaabf420d

The 7800 controller is not that bad. I find it more reliable and more responsive then the 2600 standard controller.

[CRTGAMER]

The 5200 has the same problem, luckily I snagged some Wico's for that system.


I don't know of any after market controllers for the 7800. Most 2600 controllers work but you lose out on the second button. The Wico 2600 Bat handle (with leaf switches inside) does come with 2 buttons but both operate on same 1 button circuit.



That Atari gamepad that pepharytheworm posted does look lot easier on the hands:


With a little soldering you could easily build one, maybe even modify that Sega controller. No resistors or potentiometers to deal with just switches. Just follow traces of 7800 controller. Actually that Wico Bat handle (after modifying) might be idea if you can find one.

[AARST]

That Atari gamepad that pepharytheworm posted does look lot easier on the hands:

Hey, I have one of those I could take it apart and take pictures if it would help you guys to make your own.

[kunoh]

That Atari gamepad that pepharytheworm posted does look lot easier on the hands:

Hey, I have one of those I could take it apart and take pictures if it would help you guys to make your own.

Wow you guys are awesome. Thanks for the great info!
Speaking for myself, you don't have to take anything apart.
I'll just end up finding a gamepad on Ebay or Craiglist.

[slowslow325]

There was also a way where you could simply move the wires inside the controller (the wires that go to the console) so that you could hold the controller sideways. I don't know why you would want to do that (probably because I've never held one), but it might make it more comfortable.