If you're a gamer, you've likely encountered the frustration of playing vertical arcade games on your phone in landscape mode. Enter Max Kern, a modder who's crafted a solution with his innovative Tate Mode mini controller, designed specifically for portrait-mode gaming. But does it truly address the issue?
Traditional controllers are optimized for landscape play, similar to what you'd find on a Switch or Steam Deck. Yet, classic vertical shooters and retro games often require you to hold your phone vertically, much like scrolling through Instagram.
Max Kern's solution is a compact USB-C gamepad, tailored for Tate mode gaming. This tiny controller connects directly to your phone's USB-C port, eliminating the need for Bluetooth, charging, or additional batteries. It's powered by a Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip, with the case and buttons 3D-printed via JLCPCB. If you're interested in building your own, Max provides a detailed tutorial on his YouTube channel.
Watch Max Kern's YouTube video on the Tate Mode mini controller here.
The controller utilizes the GP2040-CE firmware, functioning as a standard HID controller, making it compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac. This versatility is impressive for such a small device.
However, there are concerns about the strain it might put on the USB-C port, as the gamepad partially supports the phone's weight. Users would need to hold both the phone and the controller to prevent potential damage to the connector over time.
On Reddit, opinions are mixed. Some users admire the ingenuity but worry about hand cramps and comfort, while others are more open to the concept. It's important to note that this isn't a commercial product but a DIY project. Max has generously shared all the necessary firmware and print files on Thingiverse and Github.
What are your thoughts on this innovative Tate Mode mini controller? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Before you go, don't miss our coverage on the Zombie Survival Shooting RPG Darkest Days, now available on Android.
LATEST ARTICLES 15
2025-12
Weird Johnny Studio, creators of Hero Tale, has revealed their latest project - the dark fantasy bullet-heaven roguelite Last Mage. This intense survival game casts you as the final magic-wielder in a world where arcane arts have been banned, forcing
Author: ScarlettReading:0
14
2025-12
Amazon has temporarily revived one of its most sought-after power bank promotions. The Anker Zolo 10,000mAh 30W USB Power Bank is now just $12.93 with a 50% instant discount—an exceptional value for a fast-charging Anker device. This compact power ba
Author: ScarlettReading:0
14
2025-12
We're Back! Ranking All Four John Wick FilmsWith Ana de Armas making waves in the upcoming spinoff Ballerina and John Wick 5 officially greenlit, now's the perfect time to assess the entire high-octane saga. While every installment delivers incredibl
Author: ScarlettReading:1
13
2025-12
Mythical Champions represent the latest and most powerful rarity level in RAID: Shadow Legends, featuring dual skill sets, transformative abilities, and the potential to reshape the game's meta. These champions are not just incremental stat improveme
Author: ScarlettReading:0
