Nine years of hunting for a superior N64 joystick alternative, and I've stumbled upon a controller modification that warrants my attention
Upgrading Your N64 Controller: A Guide to the Hyperkin Hall-Effect Joystick
The world of retro gaming has seen a resurgence in recent years, and with it, the need for reliable controllers that can stand the test of time. One such controller is the N64, and a popular upgrade for its joystick comes from Hyperkin.
Hyperkin's Hall-Effect Joystick for N64
Hyperkin's Hall-Effect Joystick for N64 is a straightforward upgrade that adds a Gamecube-style thumbstick to the N64 gamepad. The joystick, manufactured by 8BitDo, slots straight into an original N64 controller with no soldering required. This makes the project super approachable for both beginners and experienced modders alike.
The Joystick's Benefits
The hall-effect stick feels almost the same as the original for games like Goldeneye 007, providing a familiar gaming experience. Additionally, it can fix the stick drift issue that often plagues the original N64 stick. Hall-effect joysticks, like the one offered by Hyperkin, offer similar benchmarks to the original N64 stick, making them a popular choice among retro gamers.
Taking Care of Your N64 Controller
When it comes to maintaining your N64 controller, it's essential to handle it with care. Avoid using tools harder than the plastic itself, as it may result in introducing new scratches and damage. Wooden toothpicks can be used to remove anything stuck in grooves and indents of the controller, while a soft toothbrush and water can help shift dirt from the controller. It's also recommended to let everything air dry for at least 24 hours after rinsing and patting dry to prevent corrosion.
Teardown and Modding
The N64 controller teardown requires disassembling the old '90s gamepad. The controller has seven screws on the back and two smaller screws inside the back expansion port. The thumbstick module is secured to the front shell using three smaller Phillips screws. The author continues to fix the original parts to the best of their ability and experiments with different methods, including 3D printing.
Alternatives and Pricing
Hyperkin's hall-effect replacement is recommended, even for player 2 pad. However, there are other N64 controller remedies available, such as those by Kitsch-Bent and SteelSticks64. Retro Fighters Brawler64, 8Bitdo 64 Bluetooth Controller, and Hyperkin Fleet Admiral are other N64 controllers available on Amazon. The Hyperkin Hall Effect Joystick for N64 is priced at $14.99 in the US and £15 in the UK on Amazon.
A Word of Caution
Over time, the plastic parts of the N64 stick's design wear down, causing the stick to wiggle and the joystick bowl to get deeper. This wear and tear leads to old N64 joysticks developing stick drift. It's essential to be mindful of this wear and tear and take care of your controller to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
Sabrina Carpenter's Advice
Sabrina Carpenter, a popular singer and retro gaming enthusiast, advises giving controller parts plenty of time to dry before reassembling to prevent corrosion. By following these tips and upgrading with Hyperkin's Hall-Effect Joystick for N64, you can ensure your N64 controller remains in top shape for years to come.
