The Sega Control Stick (1987)

The Sega Control Stick for the Master System offered an alternative input method to the standard directional pad, aiming to replicate the feel of arcade controls. Technologically, it functioned using a digital mechanism, registering movement in eight directions through a physical joystick that activated microswitches beneath. These switches corresponded to the cardinal and diagonal directions, sending signals to the console to translate into on-screen character movement. Two action buttons, typically labelled 1 and 2, mirrored the functionality of the buttons on the standard Master System controller, providing the means for in-game actions like jumping or attacking.
The design of the Sega Control Stick featured a sturdy base intended for tabletop use, with the joystick positioned on the right-hand side and the two action buttons located on the left. This layout, while aiming for an arcade-like experience, was considered unconventional by some as it reversed the typical placement of joystick and buttons found in most arcade setups and on later console controllers. The joystick itself often had a large, bulbous top, and the overall construction prioritized durability to withstand enthusiastic gameplay. While offering a different feel, its responsiveness could vary between games, with some titles benefiting from the direct digital input while others requiring more nuanced control being better suited to the standard D-pad.

Complete

Name/Variant	Sega Control Stick
Price	£15.99