New Picade Max USB Controller from Pimoroni

Pimoroni has just released an exciting new product for arcade and gaming enthusiasts—the Picade Max USB Controller. This versatile, RP2040-powered board is designed to take your homebrew gaming projects to the next level. Whether you're building a custom controller for two-player games or exploring creative ways to integrate arcade-style controls, the Picade Max is here to help you bring your ideas to life.

The Picade Max USB Controller is a long, slim board that connects to your PC, Mac, or Linux machine using a standard USB-C cable. Once connected, it appears as a standard USB game controller, ready to accept inputs from your arcade buttons and joysticks. It's perfect for DIY enthusiasts looking to create their own custom arcade-style controller for retro gaming or modern projects.

This board is designed with flexibility in mind. You can connect joysticks and up to 30 arcade buttons, making it the ideal choice for those who want to build a truly custom, high-quality controller. Pimoroni also offers arcade parts like buttons and joysticks separately or as part of their Arcade Parts Kit to complement the Picade Max.

Key Features of the Picade Max USB Controller

RP2040-powered: The Picade Max is powered by the RP2040 microcontroller with a dual ARM Cortex M0+ processor, offering impressive performance for game controller applications.
Massive Button Support: With support for 30 arcade buttons, this controller is ideal for larger, more complex arcade setups. You can easily assign each button for different inputs in your games, from jumping and shooting to activating special powers!
Dual Joystick Inputs: The controller supports 2x 4-way joystick inputs, allowing you to create a two-player setup or expand your game controls with additional functionality.
Plasma Button Connector: Want to add some flair to your setup? The Picade Max includes a Plasma button connector for rainbow-illuminated buttons. You can add some vibrant visual appeal to your games with these dynamic, glowing buttons.
Easy Connectivity: The board comes with DuPont pin connectors for easy attachment of your buttons and joysticks. Plus, the Qwiic/STEMMA QT connector allows for further expansion with compatible sensors or peripherals.
Plug-and-play: No soldering required—this board is fully assembled and ready to go right out of the box. Just connect your components, and you’re ready to start gaming!
Powered via USB-C: The Picade Max connects via USB-C, ensuring fast data transmission and compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Additional Inputs and Outputs: In addition to joystick and button connections, the board offers 3x ADC inputs and supports 3V3 power and ground, making it versatile for various projects beyond just gaming.
Status LED and Boot Buttons: The inclusion of a status LED, along with BOOT and RESET buttons, provides convenient feedback and control during development and testing.

Ideal Use Cases for the Picade Max

Custom Arcade Machines: Build your own home arcade system with dual joysticks, up to 30 buttons, and all the necessary connections to create the ultimate DIY gaming experience.
Retro Gaming Projects: Pair the Picade Max with retro gaming software, such as RetroPie or other emulators, to control your classic arcade games just like the original.
Game Development: Use the Picade Max as a game controller for your development projects. Its support for multiple buttons and joysticks makes it great for testing and playing your own homebrew games.
Custom Gaming Controls: The Picade Max is perfect for anyone interested in creating unique, personalized controllers with more buttons and inputs than traditional gamepads.

Pricing and Availability

The Picade Max USB Controller is available for purchase directly from Pimoroni’s website for £99.50. You can find more details and purchase the product through their online store.

The Picade Max USB Controller is a game-changer for arcade and gaming enthusiasts. With its impressive button and joystick support, customizable features, and plug-and-play ease, it's a must-have for anyone interested in building their own arcade controller. Powered by the RP2040 microcontroller, this controller offers outstanding performance and flexibility, making it a perfect addition to any DIY gaming project.