The GameCube Controller
Originally introduced in 2001, The GameCube controller has maintained its iconic status among gamers, particularly within the Super Smash Bros. community. Its enduring popularity has spurred the development of several innovative modifications and customizations, enhancing its functionality and adaptability for modern gaming.
GoomWave: Developed by GoomySmash, the GoomWave was the first motherboard designed to enhance the performance of the GameCube controller, particularly for high-level Super Smash Bros. Melee play. It features a Raspberry Pi 2040, hot-swappable stickbox potentiometers, notch calibration, PODE emulation, and various other customizable settings. At its peak, many top Melee players utilized GoomWave controllers, though its closed-source nature limited widespread availability.
PHOB (Printed Homebrew Open Board): The PHOB essentially took the custom motherboard concept and made it open-source. Utilizing the same RP2040, This custom motherboard offers advanced precision and functionality using small magnets and Hall Effect Sensors instead of potentiometers. This allows players to enhance their controllers with custom firmware and performance tweaks, while also maintaining consistent 1.0 Cardinals. It has become a cornerstone for enthusiasts seeking a competitive edge or greater reliability.
NaxGCC: This modern iteration of the PHOB motherboard features a durable design incorporating the same advanced features like remappable buttons while adding a new input consistency mode. Notably, it includes a USB-C connector, providing enhanced convenience for users.
Cardosi Customs CardBoard 1.3.1: This innovative motherboard revitalizes aging GameCube controllers with a wealth of features, including remappable buttons, support for multiple stick boxes, built-in DACs for arcade-style controllers, and reduced snapback for analog sticks. Its compatibility with tactile buttons, mouse-click switches, and fight-stick conversions offers unparalleled customization.
PhoZL: This motherboard is a PHOB motherboard modified by @sean44104 to include a second Z button on the left side of the controller. This modification truly brings the Gamecube Controller format into the new age. Combined with the Removable Gate Controller Shells, This is the most suitable for newer games that utilize a left and right bumper. Its compatibility with the ProGCC Firmware makes it HOJA-friendly and a great Xinput controller on PC.
These advancements have ensured the GameCube controller's enduring relevance, transforming it into a versatile and mod-friendly tool that continues to captivate players and modders alike. Whether through precision engineering or grassroots ingenuity, the GameCube controller’s legacy remains alive and thriving.
