If you enjoy gaming, you've probably tried vertical arcade titles on your phone and found the experience lacking. One modder has introduced a new Tate mode mini controller aiming to solve this long-standing issue. But does it truly deliver?
Most controllers are built for landscape gaming, like on the Switch or Steam Deck. Yet classic vertical shooters and retro favorites require holding your phone upright, similar to browsing social media.
Enter modder Max Kern’s creative solution: a compact USB-C gamepad made specifically for portrait (Tate mode) gaming. It connects directly to your phone’s USB-C port, eliminating the need for Bluetooth pairing, charging, or batteries.
Max constructed the Tate Mode mini controller using a Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip, with the case and buttons 3D-printed via JLCPCB. You can build your own by following his detailed tutorial available on YouTube.
Check out Max Kern’s video demonstration of the Tate Mode mini controller here.
What Are Your Thoughts on This Tate Mode Mini Controller?
Running GP2040-CE firmware, it functions as a standard HID controller compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac. This makes it remarkably versatile despite its small footprint.
That said, the design appears to exert some pressure on the USB-C port, as the controller bears part of the phone’s weight. To prevent long-term connector damage, it’s important to support both the phone and controller while in use.
Reactions on Reddit range from admiration to concerns about ergonomics. While some users find it potentially uncomfortable, others are more open to the concept.
Calling it a commercial product might be a stretch—it’s more of a DIY endeavor. Max has shared all firmware and printing files on Thingiverse and GitHub. What’s your take on this tiny gamepad? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Before you go, check out our coverage of the zombie survival RPG Darkest Days on Android.
Latest Downloads
Downlaod
Top News
