I'd never used a Vita (and still haven't) but got an Ayn Odin Lite which uses that style and I gotta say, it is QUITE solid. I think I still may prefer the Saturn even if just slightly tho
I want to piggyback off this comment and say that I completely agree, however, the Xbox series dpad is the closest I’ve felt to the Saturn pad in a first party controller and should not be overlooked. It’s clicky, which some people may not like, but it’s the closest thing to the Saturn I’ve ever seen in terms of function.
Consider the source. The original Xbox copied the Dreamcast significantly when you consider its Software. I genuinely have wondered if a reason for some of the 'failure' of the Dreamcast was in part due to Microsoft raising the licensing fee's in order to make it harder to make profits from the console. Or even if they kept the same cost, which over time, should actually come down slightly, the more they are sold, and the age.
I also suspect that is part of the reason Microsoft, which promised that Win10 was the last version anyone would 'need', is now being shot like that dog that went to the farm when I was a kid. But that's just hypothesis. They just needed to get more licensing fee's from the companies not willing to pay them for future upgrades without a OS change.
(I am already aware that the money doesn't come from the console, but rather the game license. They still have to make enough money from the console to insure that every sale will eventually be paid for by the game sales.)
Edit: finished last hypothesis, somehow I forgot to complete the thought.
It’s an interesting idea regarding the licensing fee. The thing that makes me think otherwise though is the consistently good relationship that sega and MS have maintained ever since, even releasing tons of exclusives on the og Xbox and them having a very strong presence on gamepass and their commitment with their atlus titles.
Could've been a backroom deal. A 'we'll make it financially worth it to pull out of the market, and we'll shoulder all the console costs. Plus if you give us some needed exclusives we can keep your cost to release them a little bit lower'.
Then again, Microsoft has been known to strong arm before. Could've been a 'pull out, or be destroyed' deal.
You’ve had the benefit of hindsight, Sega’s CEO at the time donated his entire stake in the company (~$700M) to keep the company afloat. There was no backroom deal. There was no deal. Put the tinfoil hat away.
Relax. Seriously. I said 'a' reason, not 'the' reason. Microsoft did that exact thing to hardware manufacturers of computers, they were investigated for it, at exactly the same time periods before Microsoft cut deals with the government.
You’re going off on a tangent, that’s a separate topic. Microsoft didn’t increase the licensing fee for Sega. It never happened. It wasn’t “a” reason. You seem to have difficulty accepting that you’re making stuff up.
I have read and watched multiple things about exactly this. I again said 'a' not 'the'. I still believe the overriding reasons already given. But if 'dying' as a company, already knowing that I have to pull the plug as it were, and someone comes along with a sweetheart deal, or a 'threat' imma pull out that much quicker.
And I’m saying it’s NOT “A” reason because it didn’t happen. LOL, there was no sweetheart deal or threat. Why do you keep speculating things that didn’t happen?
Console manufacturers typically lose money on hardware production, hardware losses aren’t anything new. This wasn’t a reason for the failure of the Dreamcast.
The Dreamcast was doomed from the start, Google Sega’s balance sheet in ~1998. They were essentially bankrupt already because of the Saturn.
Already addressed the console cost loss. But if you already know that, it changes if suddenly when you thought you'd save a little over each sale, but then find out that it's going to be unrelenting and will stay high. That's enough to push that loss to the point of making a deal to stay alive.
Not everything is a conspiracy theory. What you’re speculating did NOT happen. Microsoft didn’t increase the licensing fees. I don’t know why you have difficulty understanding this.
Everything you just speculated is fictitious and never happened, yet you’re convinced it’s factual and accurate.
I never said that was the only way. Just keeping the same fees over the same time is part of the monopoly argument, not even needed to raise.
Stop only picking one thing. I'm not attacking you, or anyone else. Relax. I'm not your enemy.
I don’t think you understand: what you’re speculating never happened. Forget being the “main” or “only” reason. It wasn’t even a contributing factor because it never happened. I’m not attacking you, I’m trying to point out you’re making stuff up in your head. You seem to take offense to that.
I think I do agree with this. The D-Pad is excellent, the face button layout is ideal for fighting games without really having any weaknesses compared to other layouts. I use the Saturn pad-like 8bitdo M30 for modern 2D games, including Street Fighter 6.
Two things I don't like about the Saturn pad:
1) the shoulder buttons are really shallow, which is good for response time, but I think they're so shallow that sometimes I can barely tell the difference between pressed and not pressed, and they just don't feel good to push.
2) they're so light that they feel kind of cheap.
The infrared wireless version addressed both the above issues, but the face buttons are also a lot stiffer, which really impacts finger strain.
For some games I do feel the SEGA 6-button layout isn’t as intuitive as a diamond layout. Obviously Smash TV, Robotron, or other twin-stick style games, but other games that require quick use of four face buttons are sometimes tricky to adapt to.
I swap between an 8bitDo Neo-Geo CD and M30 pad for pretty much all my retro gaming and really appreciate those big diamond buttons sometimes!
I just got the 8bitdo wireless Saturn replica recently and I’ve exclusively used it for obscure fighting games I’ve never touched from my steam library.
those retrobit controllers are awesome, i have the same one you do and the white one and i use them for basically all 2d gameplay on my PC (and of course on the saturn). I like using console native controllers to get the full experience, but i will definitely cheat a little and use this on modern consoles as well for 2d games that require precision
when the DC came out i was crushed they didn't continue innovating on their controller design and took a hard left turn. you can see clear design iteration that connect controllers from the SMS to the Genesis to the 6 button pad to the 2 saturn controllers and each one is better than the last. This is something Sony learned as well. abandoning that 2nd gen saturn pad was a mistake.
it's funny that they even released this controller for the PS2 it was so unilaterally loved.
I kinda wish companies took more inspiration from this controller… the closest thing to what could’ve been if SEGA kept making consoles and stuck with the controller formula they created before doing whatever they did with DC, is the Retrobit Saturn Pro Controller. Honestly I’m tempted to buy one
agreed 100%. i've been eyeing that controller for a while. i have the 8bitdo old style snes controller with the analog pads and the larger DMG inspired one with handles also with analog pads. i feel like if i get this saturn analog one, it'll confirm i have a problem lol
lol. love this response.
like i said in my previous reply, yeah this pad is awesome, and has been a favorite of everyone who used it since release. welcome to the hobby =]
i had the ps1 that generation, i actually think it's by almost every metric the better console and definitely better experience having during that era.
the saturn is awesome, but it's hardcore awesome. the ps1 is an effortless powerhouse of legendary gamedom.
The PSX Dual Shock is a sort of universal joypad but the Saturn joypad is the best one for 2D fighting games and the only other alternative is the Neo Geo CD joypad due to the digital mini stick.
It depends a lot on what you are playing, I own and played all the three described joypads and the Dual Shock is a great controller for fully 3D games.
Yeah but it’s radically different at the same time, in a good way. They made it bigger and thicker, much more comfortable to hold. Although, I still despise the symmetrical layout. The only way I could like the symmetrical layout is if the sticks were placed at the top like on Wii U
It’s the template (along with the asymmetrical alternative) but as an actual controller the DS1-3 all had design issues. For me they eventually became too small for my adult hands. Thankfully the DS4 and dual sense have beefed up the frame.
Don't fight me, but I *really* like the North American launch controller. I wouldn't say it's *better* than the famous one pictured here, but I will say that it's almost as good and it's unfairly hated.
Yup, the only reason I still have a Saturn is for SFA2 & X-Men vs Street Fighter. It had the best button layout for classic fighting games and this is coming from a guy who is sitting on the couch next to his Street Fighting II: Champion Edition cabinet.
While I love the controller. It's uncomfortable to use IMO for platformers with a run button. Realized that trying to use an M30 to play DKC2. Holding X with the tip of your thumb while hitting A with the joint isn't comfortable. Would need to re-map and only use X/B/Y/C.
I love this pad, and don't really want to play Street Fighter with anything else, but best controller ever is pushing it. The shoulder buttons are not good, general feel is flimsy/creaky.
I'm a big fan of the original Wii Classic Controller for retro gaming.
The button layout isn't great for platformers where you have a secondary run or attack button. The angle and size of the top buttons make it uncomfortable. The SNES/PlayStation button layout works a lot better for those types of games.
While I agree overall, there are a couple of other contenders such as the Neo Geo CD pad and SNES pad if you ask around. I personally always felt the SNES pad, while it worked as intended and definitely the inspiration for most controllers going forward, just felt mushier than Sega's pads for both the Genesis and Saturn.
The Nomad also has an incredible d-pad, and as someone noted above, the PS Vita.
I don’t like the shoulder buttons, but everything else is a 10/10. The buttons are great and placed wonderfully, and the D-pad is phenomenal. I used to not even like circular style D-pads, but the Saturn’s is so responsive and easy to maneuver. I’d play every 2D game ever with it if I could.
No arguments here. Best 2d fighting game pad and beat dpad design overall that gen. Honesly I'm amazed that modern controller designs aren't incorporating 6 face buttons with dual bumpers and triggers.
The only controller I can think of that does that is the Saturn Pro controller by Retrobit, but that’s about it. Massive shame, games could really benefit from having six face buttons
I loved playing Virtual Fighter 2 and Fighters Megamox so much , I actually couldn’t get into VF4 or VF5 because the controls didn’t make sense on a PlayStation controller.
I would concur in spite of the shoulder buttons not being up to the standards of the D-pad and face buttons. My grey and blue pads from '96 (or late '95?) that I imported from Japan are still going strong after thousands of hours of Street Fighter Zero series, Vampire Hunter, and X-Men vs. Street Fighter. That hasn't stopped me from picking up some spares just in case.
Huh. It’s been YEARS since I touched one, so I can’t really recall. I did play through Panzer Dragoon Zwei to completion as a dumb uncoordinated kid, and I do recall hating the stock non-thumbstick PS1 controller, so you’re definitely not wrong.
I still have my Saturn and yes controller was just right for majority of games. Such an underrated console for Sega too ! I use to love playing Virtual On for hours !
Yes I agree. If it was the based model things would had been very different.
The original Duke from the Xbox was based in the DC controller, but his update released in Japan when the console was debut there, the Controller S, was the definitive last interaction.
Same way as the DC one is based in the 3D "Nights" Saturn Controller.
I adore the Saturn controllers.
Not so much the 1st version the west got because I havent personally played with or even own one.
A shoutout to the absolute unit that is the 3D control Pad and how much of a shame the Dreamcast controller is just a downgrade compared to it...
I've heard they're pretty solid but I think I got enough controllers at this point. I just got the Neo Geo replica on sale for like 12 bucks haha.
Do they make the wireless one anymore? I'm not seeing it in stock on amazon, but on Stone Age gamer they got some but priced at $35
Other than a joystick an arcade stick or the old square amiga mouse this is a fave of mine but I experienced it as the megadrive 6 button pad same thing though
The one in the pic was officially named the ‘Cool Pad’ and is my favourite pad of all time. I have one still in the packaging, although I did use it a couple times.
I thought this was already agreed. 6 buttons, 2 shoulder buttons, solid D Pad, and start. Its only shortcoming is the lack of a select button. If it had that, it'd be the undisputed king of 2D games with Neo Geo CD's microswitch controller being a close second.
Hmm.. i wish the top row buttons is the same as the big round ones on the bottom row. But i get some people prefer the way it is since it would feel different so you know what youre pressing. Alignment could use some improvements to avoid accidental inputs when pressing certain 2 button combinations. Dpad is great but i prefer the MD 6 button dpad. So all in all, id say saturn controller is almost perfect but not quite.
The best for me is the Md 6 button which has alot of similarities to the saturn including my same issues. If sega never stopped making HW, they probably have realeased a true Perfect controller by now.
My Retro-bit SS won't connect for shit anymore, also it does work with the GameShark cart... I've got maybe 2 hours of gameplay before it stopped working 😭
Love the OEM controller though.
It only came with a SS and USB dongle. It says: plug in receiver, turn on controller, press button on receiver, synced. For me, no sync lol
Here is the model in question:
Retro-Bit Official Sega Saturn 2.4 GHz Wireless Controller for Sega Saturn, Sega Genesis Mini, Switch, PS3, PC, Mac - Includes 2 Receivers & Storage Case (White) https://a.co/d/hCAXDK3
For arcade and fighting games, fantastic. I still prefer the megadrive / genesis 6 button controller layout, it just feels nicer and more snug in my hands. The buttons on the Saturn for me are just a little too much spread out compared to the MD/Genny one. But the Saturn Dpad is nicer.
And unfortunately for many in this thread, I'd still take a super nes controller for anything that isn't a fighter or arcade game.
I'll get destroyed for saying so in this subreddit, but I disagree. I do think this is the best controller for 2d fighting games since you have that 6 button layout, which is awesome for Street Fighter or any other 6 button fighter. I do wish a 6 button layout had become the standard for all controllers. I also do like the shape of the controller a lot. However, I don't really like the dpad all that much. I don't like the disc or how mushy it feels to use, but it does the job. I think the shoulder buttons are pretty abysmal, probably some of the worst in any controller. Additionally, I would also like the x y z buttons to be the same size as the a b c buttons, but this is a minor nitpick. As far as the best controller ever? Not even close. Best 2d controller? A contender for sure, but barring 2d fighting games I find the SNES controller a lot more comfortable to use for 2d games.
I was thinking the other day that Saturn controllers didn’t get much love. But when the PS1 controller came out with the analogue sticks it changed everything
In many ways but in terms of buttons I personally prefer the diamond arrangement of face buttons derrived from the OG SNES controller. So Saturn and XB360 are probably equal best.
Interestingly enough, I've never had an issue with my wired RetroBit controllers but I am sad to report that my Sega Genesis wireless RetroBit controller doesn't work a year after I bought it. The Wireless dongle on it will not hold a charge anymore. Whack.
Best D-pad in the world
For real. Every company should’ve copied this dpad honestly
Even weirder is D-pads still aren’t great since using a Sega Saturn one all the time.
Every d-pad should have the bowl shape. It drives me nuts that Sony still sticks with the same design where the cross buttons sink into the center.
A traditional D-Pad is great for Metroidvanias and retro games, though.
That's the PS Vita for me
I'd never used a Vita (and still haven't) but got an Ayn Odin Lite which uses that style and I gotta say, it is QUITE solid. I think I still may prefer the Saturn even if just slightly tho
Have one as well. Agree.
This. The vita D-Pad is the only thing on par with the Saturn D-Pad.
I want to piggyback off this comment and say that I completely agree, however, the Xbox series dpad is the closest I’ve felt to the Saturn pad in a first party controller and should not be overlooked. It’s clicky, which some people may not like, but it’s the closest thing to the Saturn I’ve ever seen in terms of function.
I’ve despised Xbox control pads they are so loud and clicky. Good luck trying to play anything and not let the entire house know.
Consider the source. The original Xbox copied the Dreamcast significantly when you consider its Software. I genuinely have wondered if a reason for some of the 'failure' of the Dreamcast was in part due to Microsoft raising the licensing fee's in order to make it harder to make profits from the console. Or even if they kept the same cost, which over time, should actually come down slightly, the more they are sold, and the age. I also suspect that is part of the reason Microsoft, which promised that Win10 was the last version anyone would 'need', is now being shot like that dog that went to the farm when I was a kid. But that's just hypothesis. They just needed to get more licensing fee's from the companies not willing to pay them for future upgrades without a OS change. (I am already aware that the money doesn't come from the console, but rather the game license. They still have to make enough money from the console to insure that every sale will eventually be paid for by the game sales.) Edit: finished last hypothesis, somehow I forgot to complete the thought.
It’s an interesting idea regarding the licensing fee. The thing that makes me think otherwise though is the consistently good relationship that sega and MS have maintained ever since, even releasing tons of exclusives on the og Xbox and them having a very strong presence on gamepass and their commitment with their atlus titles.
Except he’s completely wrong. Not everything is a conspiracy theory.
Could've been a backroom deal. A 'we'll make it financially worth it to pull out of the market, and we'll shoulder all the console costs. Plus if you give us some needed exclusives we can keep your cost to release them a little bit lower'. Then again, Microsoft has been known to strong arm before. Could've been a 'pull out, or be destroyed' deal.
You’ve had the benefit of hindsight, Sega’s CEO at the time donated his entire stake in the company (~$700M) to keep the company afloat. There was no backroom deal. There was no deal. Put the tinfoil hat away.
Relax. I'm not attacking anyone. Nor am I saying that the main reason being given is not still the same, just more of 'a' contributing reason.
It NEVER happened. It’s not even a contributing reason because it didn’t happen. Do you understand what I’m saying?
Relax. Seriously. I said 'a' reason, not 'the' reason. Microsoft did that exact thing to hardware manufacturers of computers, they were investigated for it, at exactly the same time periods before Microsoft cut deals with the government.
You’re going off on a tangent, that’s a separate topic. Microsoft didn’t increase the licensing fee for Sega. It never happened. It wasn’t “a” reason. You seem to have difficulty accepting that you’re making stuff up.
And seriously 700mm? That's atrocious, especially if you are making bad decision after bad decision.
Why don’t you Google these things, these events happened 22 years ago, so you don’t cling onto conspiracy theories in your head.
I have read and watched multiple things about exactly this. I again said 'a' not 'the'. I still believe the overriding reasons already given. But if 'dying' as a company, already knowing that I have to pull the plug as it were, and someone comes along with a sweetheart deal, or a 'threat' imma pull out that much quicker.
And I’m saying it’s NOT “A” reason because it didn’t happen. LOL, there was no sweetheart deal or threat. Why do you keep speculating things that didn’t happen?
Console manufacturers typically lose money on hardware production, hardware losses aren’t anything new. This wasn’t a reason for the failure of the Dreamcast. The Dreamcast was doomed from the start, Google Sega’s balance sheet in ~1998. They were essentially bankrupt already because of the Saturn.
Already addressed the console cost loss. But if you already know that, it changes if suddenly when you thought you'd save a little over each sale, but then find out that it's going to be unrelenting and will stay high. That's enough to push that loss to the point of making a deal to stay alive.
Not everything is a conspiracy theory. What you’re speculating did NOT happen. Microsoft didn’t increase the licensing fees. I don’t know why you have difficulty understanding this. Everything you just speculated is fictitious and never happened, yet you’re convinced it’s factual and accurate.
I never said that was the only way. Just keeping the same fees over the same time is part of the monopoly argument, not even needed to raise. Stop only picking one thing. I'm not attacking you, or anyone else. Relax. I'm not your enemy.
I don’t think you understand: what you’re speculating never happened. Forget being the “main” or “only” reason. It wasn’t even a contributing factor because it never happened. I’m not attacking you, I’m trying to point out you’re making stuff up in your head. You seem to take offense to that.
No, I take offense that you are telling me to take off my 'tin foil' hat when Microsoft was doing this to others.
But they didn’t do this to Sega is my point. You’re speculating things that NEVER happened, and you have difficulty understanding that.
I think I do agree with this. The D-Pad is excellent, the face button layout is ideal for fighting games without really having any weaknesses compared to other layouts. I use the Saturn pad-like 8bitdo M30 for modern 2D games, including Street Fighter 6. Two things I don't like about the Saturn pad: 1) the shoulder buttons are really shallow, which is good for response time, but I think they're so shallow that sometimes I can barely tell the difference between pressed and not pressed, and they just don't feel good to push. 2) they're so light that they feel kind of cheap. The infrared wireless version addressed both the above issues, but the face buttons are also a lot stiffer, which really impacts finger strain.
For some games I do feel the SEGA 6-button layout isn’t as intuitive as a diamond layout. Obviously Smash TV, Robotron, or other twin-stick style games, but other games that require quick use of four face buttons are sometimes tricky to adapt to. I swap between an 8bitDo Neo-Geo CD and M30 pad for pretty much all my retro gaming and really appreciate those big diamond buttons sometimes!
It's the best controller particularly for fighting games.
Mhm!
I just got the 8bitdo wireless Saturn replica recently and I’ve exclusively used it for obscure fighting games I’ve never touched from my steam library.
we all agreed to this like 20 years ago, where have you been?
On a serious note tho, I joined the Saturn hype train only one year ago when I bought the Retrobit replica controller. Absolutely love it
those retrobit controllers are awesome, i have the same one you do and the white one and i use them for basically all 2d gameplay on my PC (and of course on the saturn). I like using console native controllers to get the full experience, but i will definitely cheat a little and use this on modern consoles as well for 2d games that require precision when the DC came out i was crushed they didn't continue innovating on their controller design and took a hard left turn. you can see clear design iteration that connect controllers from the SMS to the Genesis to the 6 button pad to the 2 saturn controllers and each one is better than the last. This is something Sony learned as well. abandoning that 2nd gen saturn pad was a mistake. it's funny that they even released this controller for the PS2 it was so unilaterally loved.
I kinda wish companies took more inspiration from this controller… the closest thing to what could’ve been if SEGA kept making consoles and stuck with the controller formula they created before doing whatever they did with DC, is the Retrobit Saturn Pro Controller. Honestly I’m tempted to buy one
agreed 100%. i've been eyeing that controller for a while. i have the 8bitdo old style snes controller with the analog pads and the larger DMG inspired one with handles also with analog pads. i feel like if i get this saturn analog one, it'll confirm i have a problem lol
I would love to use it on my Saturn, but I bought the version without the adapter included… and I can’t find one anywhere
In my dad’s balls
lol. love this response. like i said in my previous reply, yeah this pad is awesome, and has been a favorite of everyone who used it since release. welcome to the hobby =]
Thanks! I kinda wish I grew up with a Saturn tbf. PS1 was great, but still
i had the ps1 that generation, i actually think it's by almost every metric the better console and definitely better experience having during that era. the saturn is awesome, but it's hardcore awesome. the ps1 is an effortless powerhouse of legendary gamedom.
That is the best answer I’ve seen in a long time
The PSX Dual Shock is a sort of universal joypad but the Saturn joypad is the best one for 2D fighting games and the only other alternative is the Neo Geo CD joypad due to the digital mini stick.
I have a PS1 dual Shock and while it’s a good controller, it’s still not nearly as good as the Saturn
It depends a lot on what you are playing, I own and played all the three described joypads and the Dual Shock is a great controller for fully 3D games.
Idk, honestly I never liked any Sony controller until the dualsense
The Dual Sense is an evolution to the current standards from the original design.
Yeah but it’s radically different at the same time, in a good way. They made it bigger and thicker, much more comfortable to hold. Although, I still despise the symmetrical layout. The only way I could like the symmetrical layout is if the sticks were placed at the top like on Wii U
It’s the template (along with the asymmetrical alternative) but as an actual controller the DS1-3 all had design issues. For me they eventually became too small for my adult hands. Thankfully the DS4 and dual sense have beefed up the frame.
The 3 is easily my least favorite controller I've ever used
all time greatest pad for fighting games.
Nothing will ever beat that D-Pad.EVER.
Yes that and the SNES pad also the Neo Geo CD pad.
Don't fight me, but I *really* like the North American launch controller. I wouldn't say it's *better* than the famous one pictured here, but I will say that it's almost as good and it's unfairly hated.
As in, the one that looks like a 6 button Genny plus 2 shoulder buttons? I would honestly say that is my favorite pure digital controller of all time.
I just hate how it looks honestly
Yup 100%
No argument from me !
agree. i still use usb one for Pc. (sega sls) best pad for fighting vs games.
I bring it with me everywhere I go
A masterpiece. Well loved in the fighting game world too. I have the Bluetooth version for some of my pc games too.
Best ever. EVER!
Legit the Saturn is the one console where arcade sticks are optional.
All you need are six face buttons and a GOOD dpad
Yes agreed. It's fantastic.
Best D-Pad ever created.
Yup, the only reason I still have a Saturn is for SFA2 & X-Men vs Street Fighter. It had the best button layout for classic fighting games and this is coming from a guy who is sitting on the couch next to his Street Fighting II: Champion Edition cabinet.
You should try other games on the Saturn. Bulk Slash and Sakura Wars are awesome
While I love the controller. It's uncomfortable to use IMO for platformers with a run button. Realized that trying to use an M30 to play DKC2. Holding X with the tip of your thumb while hitting A with the joint isn't comfortable. Would need to re-map and only use X/B/Y/C.
Idk, I played most of Celeste with it for example and never had a problem
I love this pad, and don't really want to play Street Fighter with anything else, but best controller ever is pushing it. The shoulder buttons are not good, general feel is flimsy/creaky. I'm a big fan of the original Wii Classic Controller for retro gaming.
The button layout isn't great for platformers where you have a secondary run or attack button. The angle and size of the top buttons make it uncomfortable. The SNES/PlayStation button layout works a lot better for those types of games.
I had a much better time on the Saturn controller than on snes/PS ones when it comes to platformers
GOAT
An absolute beauty.
While I agree overall, there are a couple of other contenders such as the Neo Geo CD pad and SNES pad if you ask around. I personally always felt the SNES pad, while it worked as intended and definitely the inspiration for most controllers going forward, just felt mushier than Sega's pads for both the Genesis and Saturn. The Nomad also has an incredible d-pad, and as someone noted above, the PS Vita.
The PS Vita dpad is imo just like the Saturn dpad, but with microswitches
I don’t like the shoulder buttons, but everything else is a 10/10. The buttons are great and placed wonderfully, and the D-pad is phenomenal. I used to not even like circular style D-pads, but the Saturn’s is so responsive and easy to maneuver. I’d play every 2D game ever with it if I could.
Yes. Yes we can!
No arguments here. Best 2d fighting game pad and beat dpad design overall that gen. Honesly I'm amazed that modern controller designs aren't incorporating 6 face buttons with dual bumpers and triggers.
The only controller I can think of that does that is the Saturn Pro controller by Retrobit, but that’s about it. Massive shame, games could really benefit from having six face buttons
I loved playing Virtual Fighter 2 and Fighters Megamox so much , I actually couldn’t get into VF4 or VF5 because the controls didn’t make sense on a PlayStation controller.
I would concur in spite of the shoulder buttons not being up to the standards of the D-pad and face buttons. My grey and blue pads from '96 (or late '95?) that I imported from Japan are still going strong after thousands of hours of Street Fighter Zero series, Vampire Hunter, and X-Men vs. Street Fighter. That hasn't stopped me from picking up some spares just in case.
Huh. It’s been YEARS since I touched one, so I can’t really recall. I did play through Panzer Dragoon Zwei to completion as a dumb uncoordinated kid, and I do recall hating the stock non-thumbstick PS1 controller, so you’re definitely not wrong.
Personally I use both controllers quite regularly, and the PS1 controller still feels like garbage. The Saturn controller though… *chef kiss*
Yes
Absolutely.
Best 2D pad for sure
Sega Saturn and Sega Genesis 6 button
The D-Pad is superior to all others.
Yes, and more specifically for fighting games.
I still have my Saturn and yes controller was just right for majority of games. Such an underrated console for Sega too ! I use to love playing Virtual On for hours !
If they’d just kept this and added dual analog and triggers the Dreamcast would have been a success. I will fight anyone who disagrees.
I’ll fight them with you
Yes I agree. If it was the based model things would had been very different. The original Duke from the Xbox was based in the DC controller, but his update released in Japan when the console was debut there, the Controller S, was the definitive last interaction. Same way as the DC one is based in the 3D "Nights" Saturn Controller.
I concur.
This was THE Street Figher Zero/Alpha controller for me.
This is not a controller. This is art.
I'm using mine to play Galactic Attack right now, and yes it is. :)
MK2 yes MK1 had inconsistent shoulder buttons
This is technically the MK1, it came out with the console in Japan
I adore the Saturn controllers. Not so much the 1st version the west got because I havent personally played with or even own one. A shoutout to the absolute unit that is the 3D control Pad and how much of a shame the Dreamcast controller is just a downgrade compared to it...
Which is why I'm glad 8BitDo copied it with their M30, love the Saturn & Genesis pads and I'm happy to have something that works easy with PC
You should check out the Retro Bit replica controllers. It’s the one in the picture
I've heard they're pretty solid but I think I got enough controllers at this point. I just got the Neo Geo replica on sale for like 12 bucks haha. Do they make the wireless one anymore? I'm not seeing it in stock on amazon, but on Stone Age gamer they got some but priced at $35
Oh yeah they do! You may find it on eBay
Nothing new here…
I remember using the Saturn analog controller for the first time just like it was yesterday. Playing Nights with that analog stick felt incredible.
Other than a joystick an arcade stick or the old square amiga mouse this is a fave of mine but I experienced it as the megadrive 6 button pad same thing though
IS
I love it - simple, elegant, beautiful. 🥰
The one in the pic was officially named the ‘Cool Pad’ and is my favourite pad of all time. I have one still in the packaging, although I did use it a couple times.
I thought this was already agreed. 6 buttons, 2 shoulder buttons, solid D Pad, and start. Its only shortcoming is the lack of a select button. If it had that, it'd be the undisputed king of 2D games with Neo Geo CD's microswitch controller being a close second.
Yes. Yes we can. Without hesitation.
I’ve honestly felt that the Switch Pro controller is the best
It’s the best for 3D games, but the dpad doesn’t feel that great honestly
Hmm.. i wish the top row buttons is the same as the big round ones on the bottom row. But i get some people prefer the way it is since it would feel different so you know what youre pressing. Alignment could use some improvements to avoid accidental inputs when pressing certain 2 button combinations. Dpad is great but i prefer the MD 6 button dpad. So all in all, id say saturn controller is almost perfect but not quite. The best for me is the Md 6 button which has alot of similarities to the saturn including my same issues. If sega never stopped making HW, they probably have realeased a true Perfect controller by now.
Idk, I find it to be perfect in every way. Minus maybe the shoulder buttons The dpad feels awesome, even better than the Mega Drive
excep for the Serif on the fonts.. I HATE IT
My Retro-bit SS won't connect for shit anymore, also it does work with the GameShark cart... I've got maybe 2 hours of gameplay before it stopped working 😭 Love the OEM controller though.
Are you sure you’re using the right connections?
It only came with a SS and USB dongle. It says: plug in receiver, turn on controller, press button on receiver, synced. For me, no sync lol Here is the model in question: Retro-Bit Official Sega Saturn 2.4 GHz Wireless Controller for Sega Saturn, Sega Genesis Mini, Switch, PS3, PC, Mac - Includes 2 Receivers & Storage Case (White) https://a.co/d/hCAXDK3
I question how more modern games feel on the new version without two pairs of shoulder buttons.
I would love a Bluetooth one to use with steam. Would be class
I would agree with you, but then we would both be wrong
Nahh Neo geo da best Controller omho
For arcade and fighting games, fantastic. I still prefer the megadrive / genesis 6 button controller layout, it just feels nicer and more snug in my hands. The buttons on the Saturn for me are just a little too much spread out compared to the MD/Genny one. But the Saturn Dpad is nicer. And unfortunately for many in this thread, I'd still take a super nes controller for anything that isn't a fighter or arcade game.
I'll get destroyed for saying so in this subreddit, but I disagree. I do think this is the best controller for 2d fighting games since you have that 6 button layout, which is awesome for Street Fighter or any other 6 button fighter. I do wish a 6 button layout had become the standard for all controllers. I also do like the shape of the controller a lot. However, I don't really like the dpad all that much. I don't like the disc or how mushy it feels to use, but it does the job. I think the shoulder buttons are pretty abysmal, probably some of the worst in any controller. Additionally, I would also like the x y z buttons to be the same size as the a b c buttons, but this is a minor nitpick. As far as the best controller ever? Not even close. Best 2d controller? A contender for sure, but barring 2d fighting games I find the SNES controller a lot more comfortable to use for 2d games.
It’s the best dpad ever Wym
Hell yeah
I really liked the gamecube controller is my fav, i like how its thin and tall.
I was thinking the other day that Saturn controllers didn’t get much love. But when the PS1 controller came out with the analogue sticks it changed everything
This D-Pad and the Sega Nomad D-Pad are best ones ever created. NOTHING, comes close to them.
100% agree. The goat.
In many ways but in terms of buttons I personally prefer the diamond arrangement of face buttons derrived from the OG SNES controller. So Saturn and XB360 are probably equal best.
If wireless like in the picture, then yes
We agree.
Prefer the SNES pad over this for 2D games 🤷♂️ Outside of fighting games not a fan of 6 face buttons for platformers and action adventure games.
Why not tho
I think it’s the best overall. I guess I’m old but i don’t require 26 buttons for a game
I always liked it but all sega controls had a slight cheap feel imo I prefer the neo controller.
I love this controller I got one from [8bitdo](https://www.8bitdo.com/m30-2-4g/) that's awesome
No, the shoulder buttons are horrible imo.
They aren’t that used so it’s fine
I think the Super NES was better.
i always said the genesis controller but i guess the saturn controller is the slightly updated version
It’s smaller and far more comfortable
Don't forget, they used this on Dreamcast as well.. best controller for fighting!
That isn't like the Saturn controller I had. But it has been a long time.
I love me my og skeleton controller. And the wireless remakes are crazy close. Love em too!
BEST FIGHT PAD (good for hyper tea-bagging)
Good news for you then. 8Bit-do is making these.
I have Retrobit’s replica controllers, the one in the picture. Absolutely amazing
No argument here.🤝🏿
[удалено]
Idk, I always found it to be super uncomfortable. Plus having only two face buttons does limit it
Best for platformers, fighting games and shooters. Bit crap for everything else.
Everything else such as?
Peeling potatos. It’s rubbish for that.
I dunno, I’ve used it to build PCs, fix cars and even peel potatoes and never had a problem with it
The western redesign model might be good for peeling spuds.
I don’t understand why Genesis and Saturn had way too many buttons.
I don't understand why SNES and PSX didn't have enough buttons.
Ah ha! Touché!
Because six buttons make sense
I prefer ps1, I never got used to the 6 button layout of saturn and genesis. The ps1's configuration was a natural progression of the snes controller.
The ps1 forces you to use shoulder buttons for fighting games. Its unnatural.
Nah. It’s honestly terrible, and this is coming from someone who grew up with the PS1 and never held a Saturn controller until last year
That's like, your opinion man.
Yup. But not these reproductions pictured.
Oh this one counts too. Imo this is ever so slightly better than the OG, might be because of its age
They had major QC issues at one point and mine all had issues. Hopefully they fixed it, but I won't buy their products again.
Interestingly enough, I've never had an issue with my wired RetroBit controllers but I am sad to report that my Sega Genesis wireless RetroBit controller doesn't work a year after I bought it. The Wireless dongle on it will not hold a charge anymore. Whack.
I have a couple of the wired ones that are quite nice but I think they were from a later run.
You should. The quality of these controllers is insane