Raspberry Pi Pico converts Paw Patrol toy into arcade controller

When it comes to retro gaming, using original first-party controllers is always a thrill. However, the maker community loves transforming unconventional items into functional controllers, and Dr. Tom Tilley has taken this concept to a new level with his latest project. He’s managed to turn a Paw Patrol toy with steerable handlebars into a working controller for Sega’s classic motorcycle racing game, Super Hang-On. This inventive project exemplifies how creativity and technology can merge to enhance the gaming experience.

Dr. Tilley’s goal was to create a controller that could interface with Sega’s Super Hang-On, making it perfect for a racing game. The toy, which was recycled from a thrift store for just $5, was repurposed without destroying the original product. Remarkably, he designed the controller so that its original functionality could be restored, allowing for a seamless transition between gaming and playtime.

The heart of the controller is a Raspberry Pi Pico, although the newer Raspberry Pi Pico 2 could also work. The Pico serves as a USB controller interface for a laptop running an emulator. A minor modification was needed—a hole was drilled to provide power to the Pi—but otherwise, the transformation was minimal. While other Raspberry Pi models could be used, the Pi Zero form factor is recommended due to its affordability, compact size, and availability.

Dr. Tilley has shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) demonstrating the Paw Patrol controller in action, showcasing how the handlebars control the in-game racer in real-time. While this demonstration is specific to Super Hang-On, the controller could potentially be adapted for other similar games. This project highlights the creative potential of repurposing toys for gaming, following in the footsteps of other innovative makers like Circuitbeard, who converted a Tomy Turnin’ Turbo Dashboard into a controller for Outrun using a Raspberry Pi 3B.

Read more: Raspberry Pi Pico converts Paw Patrol toy into arcade controller