Genesis Controller Questions

[marlowe221]

Still enjoying my new-to-me Genesis! Just beat Streets of Rage 2 on Normal for the first time yesterday - great game.

I'm not very familiar with the hardware though and I have a question or two concerning my controller.

1. I find that I have to push the A/B/C buttons like I mean it. I can actually push each of them very gently all the way in and the console will not register the input - i.e. I can push the jump button really easy and Shinobi (or whomever) will just stand there and not jump. Is/was that normal Genesis 3-button controller behavior or does something sound wrong there? Does it just need a good cleaning?

2. I notice that there is a 3rd party controller for sale on the racketboy store. Any experience/feedback on those?

3. Six button controllers. I'm sure I'll add games that require the 6-button controller in the near future. From what I've read it seems easy to end up with a crappy one, some buttons not working, etc. What's the trick to getting a good one, first or third party?

Thanks!

[KDub]

Your controller probably needs a good cleaning.

First party 6 button controllers (or really trusted 3rd party) all work well. I think most complaints about 6 button controllers are from people not realizing that you have to have the controller set to work with older Genesis games that only really recognize the 3 button.

[flojocabron]

these controllers are old.

so they do need some TLC

they are not pressure sensitive like newer stuff is.

There are variants of controllers as well. Someone else posted here a thread on differences inside some controllers. Not just the outside but the inside too.

That shouldn't be something to worry about. Just use them.

When you do get some controllers, get both types three and six buttons. Most games use three fine and some have minor issues with the six button.

Mode button is your friend.

In many places controllers are plentiful and if one doesnt work right, just get another one.

[samsonlonghair]

First off, congratulations on buying a Genesis. That's money well spent my friend.

1. Sounds like your controller is on the fritz. You should be able to find a replacement for less then five bucks. Alternately, you can take the controller apart and clean the connections on the inside.

2. I usually avoid third party controllers. I'd recommend that you try to find another Sega controller.

3. I guess this relates to my first two answers. Aside from the obvious number of buttons, there's little difference between a three-button controller and a six-button controller. When the time comes for you to buy a six-button controller, buy a brand name Sega controller. If it doesn't work well, just clean the insides well.

Have you considered purchasing controllers in "lots"? Buy a cheap box full of used Sega brand three-button and six-button controllers. By law of averages, you're bound to get a working controller. Clean up the rest of them and you'll find that the majority will work after a good scrubbing.

Enjoy gaming on your new (to you) Genesis!

[Hobie-wan]

Likely there is dust that has worked its way in, or someone spilled a drink that seeped in. Opening it up and cleaning the button contacts and carefully cleaning the rubber domes should perk it up as others have said.

[marlowe221]

I'll give cleaning the controller a try. That doesn't seem too intimidating a task.

Since we're talking about controllers though, is there a good Genesis style USB controller for, you know, stuff....?

[harper]

I'll give cleaning the controller a try. That doesn't seem too intimidating a task.

Since we're talking about controllers though, is there a good Genesis style USB controller for, you know, stuff....?

You don't mean...?

[BoneSnapDeez]

THE E WORD

[marlowe221]

Merely for demo purposes to see if I want to buy the actual game!

Edit: I am all for original hardware. But the ability to try before I buy helps make better decisions with my few hard earned dollars.

[samsonlonghair]

You want a Sega Saturn USB controller.

It's very similar to the Genesis controller with the addition of shoulder buttons. I use mine to play all my Genesis, Master System, Super Nintendo, and Nintendo games. It's the best controller you can get for 2D gaming.

One word of warning. Fakes are common. Before you buy one, make sure it has an SLS sticker on the back and the word SEGA on the USB plug.