The topic Someone made an ESP32 controller where the game lives on the pad itself is currently the subject of lively discussion — readers and analysts are keeping a close eye on developments.
This is taking place in a dynamic environment: companies’ decisions and competitors’ reactions can quickly change the picture.
We’ve seen plenty of retro consoles built using a Raspberry Pi or an ESP32 chip, but they often require an external controller to play. However, what if you could have a handheld console with the screen built into the controller itself? Or, better yet, if you had an ESP32 device that could act as a handheld or a controller? Well, someone has made just that, and you can help fund it right now.
As spotted by Hackster.io, this cool ESP32 controller comes with a little screen in the middle where you can see what you’re controlling. The controller itself is reminiscent of PlayStation’s DualShock accessories, with the advantage that you’ll likely be able to fix it if something breaks.
Of course, because it’s based on an ESP32, you don’t need to use it to game on a little screen. for example, you could wire it up to a console and play your game on a big screen, and perhaps code something up so you get statistics on the controller’s screen. Or you can take the device out of the gaming world entirely and use it to drive robotics or drones. A little first-person camera feed from a drone on the little screen sounds really handy, personally.
If you’d like to secure one for yourself, there’s a Kickstarter campaign aimed at raising funds to sell the controller. Early-bird pledgers can score one for $55, while the going rate is $59. Just remember that pledging to a campaign does not guarantee a product, and there’s always the chance you won’t get anything at all. Never crowdfund a project with money you’re afraid of losing.
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