Make spruces up Agetec arcade stick with two Raspberry Pi Picos

Originally published on tomshardware.com by Ash Hill on 2 November 2024

Developer ZeroShifter has revamped an Agetec arcade stick, originally designed for the Sega Dreamcast, by integrating two Raspberry Pi Pico microcontrollers to make it compatible with a wide array of modern consoles and platforms. This upgrade allows the modified controller, once limited to the Dreamcast, to now work with PlayStations, Xboxes, PCs, and the Nintendo Switch. ZeroShifter’s project maintains the classic feel of the Agetec “Green Goblin” arcade stick while adding new capabilities like VMU save support for Dreamcast games.

ZeroShifter replaced the original PCB with MaplePad, an open-source Dreamcast modification that runs on the Pico and enables VMU support, which allows users to save games and access minigames on the controller. An additional Raspberry Pi Pico was installed with GP2040-CE firmware, broadening compatibility to multiple platforms and ensuring smooth performance across them. An upgraded OLED display on the front adds a modern touch, displaying system compatibility and connection status for user convenience.

Both MaplePad and GP2040-CE are open-source, with all project details available on GitHub for those interested in replicating or modifying the setup. With this upgrade, ZeroShifter brings retro gaming into the modern era while preserving the arcade stick’s original aesthetic and feel, making it a versatile tool for any retro gaming enthusiast.

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