Joysticks
Joypads
Paddles
Trackballs
Keypads
Specialty Controllers
Auto-Fire Modules
Accessories

Joysticks

Released in Australia.

Released in Australia.

Released in Australia.  Standard controller for Action Hi-Tech's Hi-Score-MK3 system.  Knockoff of Atari's Pro-Line controller and identical to Kingsway Video Computer Console controller and Funvision's Home Computer Game controller.  The sticks can be unscrewed.

A somewhat rare version of the more-popular PC analog version.  An 8-position joystick with centering tension control and 3 independent fire buttons, as well as a one-year warranty. Retailed for $39.95. Made in both black and clear cases.  It seems the clear version was made specifically for Sega systems, although both apparently work the same.

Designed for the Amiga and Atari ST computers. Can be used as either a joystick or a mouse.

At least 3 different versions exist.

A ball-top joystick that uses leafswitches for the directions, and a micro contact switch for the fire button, which is on the front side of the base.

Originally called The Pro-Stick, this tiny controller fits in your palm and has a stick you can maneuver easily with two fingers.  According to company literature, this was first shown at the Atlanta Toy Fair in 1983. Featuring a 1.5" handle and dual fire buttons (for either left or right-handed players) and offering a "completely new precision switching technology", the company's director of marketing, Don Reisinger, claimed it provided true 8-way response, unlike typical controllers that only use 4 switches. Surprise - the new switching technology is the same used in Atari's 5200 controllers (using a carbon dot membrane against copper traces). Advertised for $9.95 each or $19.95 for a pair.

One of at least 7 controllers in Amiga's "Power-Stick" series. This was designed especially for the Commodore VIC-20 and C-64 computers and is identical except for its colors.

Specially designed for the Intellivision and Colecovision. The photo on the left is from a company press kit.

Designed for the Sinclair Spectrum +2, +2A and 3 computers (SJS stands for Sinclair Joystick System). These computers came with joysticks ports which were rewired so as not be compatible with the Atari CX-40 standard forcing owners to purchase Amstrad's joysticks.  Released in 1987.

A rewired, physical clone/relabel of Bit Corp. Joystick/Gemini Rapid Fire/Gemini Turbo Gemstik.  Designed for the Sinclair Spectrum +2, +2A and 3 computers (SJS stands for Sinclair Joystick System). These computers came with joysticks ports which were rewired so as not be compatible with the Atari CX-40 standard forcing owners to purchase Amstrad's joysticks.

A 2-button controller with a base similar to a Spectravideo QuickShot II 318-102.

Sturdy microswitch controller made in Greece.

Sturdy 2-button microswitch controller in a plastic shell made in Greece.

Sturdy microswitch controller in a plastic shell made in Greece that features auto-fire.  Identical to the Superstick 2000 except for having a larger fire button.

Sturdy microswitch controller in a plastic shell made in Greece that features auto-fire.  Identical to the Starfighter SF 2000.

Sturdy microswitch controller in a plastic shell made in Greece that's identical to the Superstick 2000 except for having a square fire button and an LED next to the auto-fire switch.

Sturdy microswitch controller in a plastic shell made in Greece.

The base looks identical to Atari's standard joystick, except it's red (with a black button), and has "Anitech" in raised letters at the top. The stick itself is similar to a Quick-Shot and others, with a square fire button on top.  The rubber boot around the base of the stick is actually part of the plastic shell.

Standard controller for the Apple Vision Video Game system.

Identical to the Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot.  This was sold in Radio Shack.

Identical to Kraft's Maze Master joystick.

Uses microswitches and has auto-fire capability. Came in 2 different boxes.

Identical to Bondwell's Quickshot Python 1 Turbo III and Python 1M (inside and out), with 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, a 4-position operating mode selector, and suction cups on the base).  Bottom of case notes it was manufactured in China for Intertan.

Identical to Spectravision/Spectravideo's Quick-Shot joystick.

Standard controller for the 2600+.  Remake of the standard CX40 joystick.  While it looks similar externally, internally it uses the same conductive membrane switches that were pioneered with the 5200 controllers.  The fire button is the only mechanical switch.  The top half of the shell is comprised of 2 parts that are hot-glued together.

Remakes usually involve an attempt to correct previous flaws and weak points, not a chance to introduce new ones.  While the switch contacts are an improvement, the stick itself is made to be detached (unscrewed), as if they wanted players to lose or break them.  But why?  To save a few pennies with shipping?  The stick itself is comprised of 2 pieces.  The stick can be separated from its base, and once you lose either part, you might as well thrown the whole thing out.  Even worse, guess where these sticks typically break?  If the top of the stick doesn't detach from the base, it will (very) likely break off at the base.  And since its release in 2005, a great many gamers have reported them breaking at the controller's "Achilles' heel".  Another problem with these is the plug fits too tightly in the controller ports on real VCS systems - so much that there's a good chance you'll crack the solder joints for the port from connecting/disconnecting them.  This is what happened when someone who wasn't a gamer or an engineer tried to design products for gamers.

Not much difference between this and the Flashback 2 model.  The Atari logo on the top and bottom is now the original version, the threaded parts where the handle screws into the base are now red, the pcb is slightly different where the wires are soldered, and the button membrane is now white instead of gray.  The joystick handle also has a looser movement to it, but otherwise it's the same, flawed controller.

Originally one of Atari's "Pro-Line" Advanced Controllers.  A company flyer notes it was coming in July 1983, with a photo showing "Atari Series 2000 Pro-Line Joystick" molded into the top of the plastic base (LINK).  However, this version was never released; they were released with a slight variant of it - in place of the molded plastic was a metal plate on the base with "Atari" on it, and with packaging similar to that used for the XL computers.  When the 7800 was first released in 1984, each button worked independently for games that required 2 fire buttons.

One of Atari's "Pro-Line" Advanced Controllers, but not made by Atari. These are identical to the Game Mate 2 controllers sold by Cynex. A company flyer notes they would be available April 1st, 1983. Similar in style to the standard CX40 joysticks but with a huge base, and each one requires a 9v transistor battery. Antennas encased in plastic transmit a signal to a black box which hooks into the system's joystick ports. Maximum range is approx. 20 feet. First announced in the January 1983 issue of Electronic Games with a suggested retail price of $100. Later featured in Atari's 1983 "2nd Half" press kit. Advertised in the V2N4 issue of Atari Age for $69.95.

One of Atari's "Pro-Line" Advanced Controllers. A compact stick resembling the handle of a pistol with a small knob-like stick at the top. There's only 1 fire button (the red top on the joystick is not a button). This stick looks identical to Milton Bradley's proposed HD2000 joystick. It's possible that Atari got the stick as part of their dealings regarding the unreleased Voice Commander Module. A company flyer notes it was available July 1983.

This is the type of controller most familiar to people, featuring one (and only one) red fire button. A brilliantly-designed controller by Steve Bristow (patent 4,124,787). The original version, which was only made for the 2600's debut year (1977) uses heavy springs with all the contact switches, giving it a much looser feel than the more-common CX40 sticks. They also don't say "TOP" in the dotted outline around the stick, and the top of the stick is recessed to hold a small "ATARI" hex-shaped plate (there was also a "SEARS" button for the Tele-Games system).

This is the far more common version, featuring a more cost-effective (ie cheap) design by James C. Asher (patent 4,349,708). This was sold separately in several different box styles. A 3rd version of this venerable controller was also made for the Atari XE version which is molded in gray plastic, though the boot (stick handle) is still black.  Original retail price $9.95; later $10.95/pair.

A 3rd version of this venerable controller was also made for the Atari XE version which is molded in gray plastic, though the boot (stick handle) is still black.

Features 2 fire buttons and auto-fire.

Similar to an Atari standard joystick but with 3 fire buttons.

A 4-button joystick that comes in black, pink, dark blue, light blue, green, and yellow and features auto-fire. The base looks similar to a QuickShot II.

A yoke-styled controller with 2 fire buttons (marked A and B), with each having its own variable auto-fire.  There's also a switch for 7800 compatibility.

Features 2 pairs of buttons (marked A and B) and a variable auto-fire.

A yoke-styled controller with 2 fire buttons (marked A and B) and a variable auto-fire.

Identical to Telegames' Super Deluxe joystick and features auto-fire.

Similar to the Bebek joystick but having 2 fire buttons on the base and a ball-top handle.

Similar to BP's joystick but with a larger handle that includes another fire button. Features "sure fire control", which might be in reference to it having 3 fire buttons.

Identical to the Gemini Turbo Gemstik Joystick.  Standard controller for the Amigo system.

A unique Cobra head-like controller with 2 fire buttons, a start button, and a turbo (auto-fire) button.

Has a cable that plugs into both controller jacks and a player 1 or 2 select switch. An aircraft control-style yoke with altitude/level indicator, 4 fire buttons, and 2 dual-speed turbo (auto-fire) select switches. Micro-switches are used.

Same as the Aviator 1 with the addition of a slow motion switch (for Sega Genesis games).

A unique Cobra head-like controller with 2 fire buttons, a start button, and a turbo (auto-fire) button.

Features auto-fire.

Features 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, and 4-position operating mode selector.

A joypad controller that resembles a handle bar.

Similar to the QS-130F except the fire button is round, and it lacks auto-fire.

Joystick that plugged in to both ports and allowed 2 players to use the same controller.

Identical to Archer's 270-7003.  Features "BioGrip control and deluxe digital response" (um, ok), with 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, a 4-position operating mode selector, and suction cups on the base.  It use silicone dome switches with conductive carbon pads.  A switch on the bottom determines what system it's configured for (A - Atari/Commodore, B - MSX, C - Amstrad, D - Sega).

Identical in appearance to Bondwell's Python 1 Turbo III and Archer's 270-7003, except for using bare microswitches.  Features 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, a 4-position operating mode selector, and suction cups on the base.  The "M" in the name denotes it's compatible with multiple systems.  A switch on the bottom determines what system it's configured for (A - Atari/Commodore, B - MSX, C - Amstrad, D - Sega).

Similar to the Python 1 except for having more thumb buttons.  Designed specifically for the Sega Genesis.

Standard controller for the Brasvision system. It's a copy of Spectravision/Spectravideo's Quick-Shot 318-101 except for being white.

Looks similar to a QuickShot.

Wireless joystick that was also compatible with the NES and SMS.

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer. This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

Nearly identical to the Commodore VG-115 joystick but without auto-fire.

Standard controller bundled with the Supergame VG 3000 system. Similar to the Coleco Dual Command and Gemini controllers except w/o the paddle.

Similar to the Super Champ.  Designed for gamers with small hands, featuring 3 fire buttons (2 on the base and 1 on the stick) and a 4-1/2 foot retractable cord. Made specifically to be used in conjunction with the Champ Keypad Adapter (CA-340) for use with the Colecovision.   Originally sold for $12.95.

A variant exists with a red base and yellow fire buttons.

Features 2 fire buttons, a swivel base with suction cups, and a 10' retractable cord.  The company sponsored the Electronic Olympiad Decathlon contest (Electronic Games, January 1984 (pg. 83).  Retail price $16.95.

Wireless version of the SuperChamp controller, renamed the Freedom Fighter.  Note the base of both are red.  The company claims it's the first remote control joystick with instant response.  Retail price $69.95.

An Annihilator variant with "ALIEN 3" in raised silver lettering at the top and a stick in the shape of H.R. Giger's Alien.  Released in 1990.

A Cheetah 125 variant with "ALIEN 3" in raised silver lettering at the top and a stick in the shape of H.R. Giger's Alien.  There's also 2 switches, with one possibly being for auto-fire.  Released in 1990.

This 3-button joystick was bundled with the C-64GS console (which was only released in the UK, in 1990). Base looks very similar to a Gemini Gemstik.

An Annihilator variant except with a blue base, a yellow fire button, and a joystick handle in the shape of Bart Simpson.  Released in 1990.

A Cheetah 125 variant with a blue base, yellow fire buttons, and a joystick handle in the shape of Bart Simpson.  There's also 2 switches, with one possibly being for auto-fire.  Released in 1990.

An Annihilator variant with "BATMAN" in raised red lettering at the top and a stick in the shape of Batman.  Released in 1990.

A Cheetah 125 variant with "BATMAN" in raised red lettering at the top and a stick in the shape of Batman.  There's also 2 switches, with one possibly being for auto-fire.  Released in 1990.

Designed to be held in your palm and has a turbo switch. Came in at least 2 different colors.

Cheetah Marketing was a UK-based company that later changed their name to Cheetah International Ltd.

Similar to the 125 except it has a rotating stick and an extra button that's programmable.

Another in their long line of uncomfortable joysticks.  Similar to the Cheetah 125 except with a silver base and a joystick handle in the shape of the Terminator's head (with a fire button in its forehead).  Also features auto-fire.  Released in 1990.

Copy of the Atari Standard joystick controller, but according to online reviews, the quality of them is quite poor.

A very high-quality controller that features a ball top joystick and 2 large fire buttons, and uses leafswitches.

Features a wide fire button, which is idea for either left or right-handed players. The internals utilize a heavy coil for the contact mechanism, instead of traditional leaf or microswitches.

Similar to the 200X, except having a red fire button.

Similar to the 1000 but with a larger handle that has 2 additional fire buttons.

Identical to the original except that it uses microswitches. Several variations of this joystick exist, with different-colored sticks and bases.  Coin Control, Inc. also made these for both the 5200 and Colecovision.

Another variation.

Identical to the 5000, except it has a chrome ball top joystick and chrome fire buttons. It also features a 3-position switch for auto-fire and "slow down" and 2 additional fire buttons. Several variations of this joystick exist, with different-colored sticks and bases.

Identical to the 5000, except it has a clear base and a 3-position switch for auto-fire and "slow down".  Several variations of this joystick exist, with different-colored sticks and bases.  A variant of the clear version has a clear internal ring for the joystick instead of red.

Identical to the Competition Pro Extra (with auto-fire and "slow down"), except it is green and possibly glows in the dark?

These have "COMPETITION PRO JOYSTICK molded into the base.   It features 2 fire buttons and a 3-position switch for auto-fire and "slow down".  As with the other models, several variations exist.  This one has a camouflage

A smaller version of the Competition Pro, with microswitches soldered onto a circuit board, making it less-durable.  Available in differently-colored versions as well.  The green version has silver buttons and 2 LEDs internally that light up when pressed.

Standard controller for the Adam.

Standard controller for the Colecovision.

Combination joystick+paddle. Description: "Advanced Controller Set with Built-in Joystick & Paddle. Now your customers can play all Atari 2600 VCS compatible games requiring joystick or paddle with one set of controllers. The DUAL COMMAND controllers were designed with a responsive, omni-directional joystick and side-mounted fire buttons, plus a rotary paddle control. These inexpensive high-quality controllers plug right into the control ports of the Atari 2600 VCS, or ColecoVision Expansion Module #1. They're also original equipment replacements for Coleco's Gemini Video Game System. To switch from joystick to paddle, just use the included Wye connector. The DUAL COMMAND controllers offer improved control at a price that's right!"  Using the Y cable doesn't switch between joystick and paddle, but simply allows 2 or more players to play paddle games using these controllers.  You also can't use it as a joystick with the Y cable, since it's missing the left, right, and fire button lines.

Same as Dual Command.

Designed for the Colecovision, for use with their Super Action sports games.

Combination joystick+paddle, identical to the Coleco Gemini's.

Standard 1-button joystick with a triangular-shaped joystick that's guaranteed to give one blisters.

Black pistol grip handle-shaped joystick with a single, rectangular fire button on top..

White joystick that is covered in fire buttons (at least 5).

Blatant ripoff of Atari's standard joystick, with a white top casing and raised "Commodore" lettering in silver paint.  According to an article in the November 29th, 1982 issue of InfoWorld (pg. 5), Atari filed a lawsuit against Commodore on October 11th, 1982, and won an injunction to halt the sale of them.

One of the last joysticks released under the Commodore label.

A 4-button joystick known for being very fragile. Has a base similar to a Spectravideo QuickShot II 318-102.  Features auto-fire.

Features auto-fire.

Features auto-fire. Identical to the VG-250 except for being white (instead of black) and having a different label.

Sturdy microswitch controller that features auto-fire and the option to use either a stick or ball (both were included in the box and could be screwed/unscrewed to change).  This is the same company as Micro Technica / John Micro System.

A 2-button controller in a plastic shell that came with a 1-year warranty. Models with 1, 2, 4, or 6 buttons were made, with most meant for use with a PC.

CMS started using plastic shells because of an issue with the Amstrad CPC computer. The metal casing created static electricity, which damaged the AY-3-8912 Amstrad chip, and legal action was brought against CMS.

Standard controllers included with the Computec Video Game System clone.  The controllers resemble Gemini Gemstiks but with the bases in white plastic.

Similar to the Wico Boss with 2 fire buttons and "TURBO" in raised letters on the base, and a slightly-different handle. Features auto-fire.

2 different versions exist - one with a small knob stick and the other with the same stick as the original Turbo model.  Both features auto-fire.

Similar to the Wico Boss with 2 fire buttons and "TURBO" in raised letters on the base, and a slightly-different handle. Features auto-fire.  Available in either black and red, or all gray.

Designed for left or right-handed use, the stick is able to move in 360 degrees and uses microswitches. Retail price $19.95.

Retail price $14.95.

Same as Atari's CX42 joysticks. Retail price $99.95!

A 1-button joystick with a lifetime warranty that features microswitchs for the joystick and a leafswitch for the fire button.  A version was also designed specifically for the Colecovision with 2 buttons and a keypad.  Retail price $39.95.

Standard controller for the Dactar Video Game system.  Same as the Milmar joystick.  The handle is identical to the Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot 318-101.

A microswitch controller similar to Suzo's The Arcade.

Packaged with Dar Yar's Television Computer System VCS pirate console.  Similar to Atari's standard VCS joystick and likely using a very cheap leafswitch setup, with wires going to screws for the bottom contacts.

Tilt switch joystick. Uses mercury switches to sense movement of the stick in mid-air. When did giving a controller full of mercury to kids seem like a good idea?  Retail price $39.95.

Bundled with the Digivision console.  Looks identical to the original Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot.

Has a rectangular-shaped fire button on the top of the joystick. Retail price $16.95.

Similar to the original PointMaster joystick except this has an auto-fire mode and suction-cupped feet. Retail price $27.95.

Identical to the Crack Shot Super Joystick.

Standard controller for the Dynavision I system.  It's a copy of Spectravision/Spectravideo's Quick-Shot 318-101, except the handle is white and the base is gray.  There are 4 suction cups on the bottom.  A variant exists that is grey and white with red lettering.

Known more for making controls for arcade games (LINK), it's unknown if they designed this or simply had their name put on someone else's controller.

The Atari 5200 Masterplay guys briefly sold this clunky joystick controller. The name "TRIGA-COMMAND" (hyphenated) is in raised lettering across the top, it's not with their packaging, plus the photo in their ad doesn't show any raised lettering.  Retail price $19.95.

Not sure what makes this different from the original version, but it certainly didn't warrant a sequel.  Retail price $10.95.

Features a "continuous-fire" bar.  According to a blurb in the June 1984 issue of Antic (pg. 79), only this model could be used with the Atari XL computers.  Retail price $23.95.

A 3-button joystick made in either black+white, or gray.

A 3-button joystick with the buttons in a different configuration.

The joystick uses microswitches. There are 2 small knobs which function as paddles, and a switch selects between using the joystick or paddles.  There's a switch that controls auto-fire, which is variable with a 3rd knob. Each button has a red LED indicator above it.

Similar to the original Joy Board Multifunction (JB-1?) controller, except instead of a auto-fire speed variable knob, there's a 4-way green LED direction indicator.

A 2-button controller that features arcade-style buttons and auto-fire.

A 2-button controller that features arcade-style buttons and variable auto-fire.  It also features 2 paddle controls.

Released in 1984 for the European market, with some success in France and Germany, despite its high price of £30 (approximately 74 DM or 4,708 Francs, which equates to about 40 Euros or $43 US).  It was also released as the Euromax Arcade Professional in the UK.  The controller measures 36cm X 20cm and features an arcade-style ball-top handle.  The joystick can be adjusted for 2, 4, or 8-way movement and also features two fire buttons - one of which is dedicated auto-fire. The photo was taken from a German website.

Same as Konix's SpeedKing.

Includes an auto-fire switch.

Dual fire buttons but only Button A is used with Atari 2600 games. A switch chooses between either free-form analog control or a spring-loaded "return-to-center" digital control.

Dual fire buttons but only Button A is used with Atari 2600 games. Auto-fire is activated by sliding the switch into position and holding the A fire button.

Identical to Zip Stik's Competition Joystick.

Variant with a long handle with a fire button on top.

All-in-1 combination joystick+paddle controller. It features a metal case, 2 fire buttons, and 2 small paddle controls. A small switch selects between the joystick and paddles. The 3rd dial adjusts the auto-fire. It also has suction cups on the bottom. Retail price is £24.95.

Same as Coin Control's Competition Pro.

Has 2 square buttons and what appears to be an auto-fire switch.  The joystick handle is similar to a Wico grip handle.  There's also a version with a clear plastic base.

Features 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, and a rounded base somewhat similar to some Championship Electronics joysticks.

Features 2 triangular-shaped fire buttons and suction cups on the bottom. The box states there's an optional auto-fire function which is complete marketing b.s. since there's no auto-fire circuitry inside. There's 2 holes underneath the "Challenger" sticker, so perhaps there was another model (or plans for one) with extra buttons or switches. The box also shows a different model without the sticker or the holes. Manufactured by Framer Assoc. Inc, P.O. Box 201, Sharon, MA 02067..

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer.  This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

Another 3-button Atari standard variant.  The stick itself is similar to a Quick-Shot and others.  The rubber boot has more ridges.

Standard controller for Funvision's Home Computer Game system.  Knockoff of Atari's Pro-Line controller and identical to Action Hi-Tech's Hi-Score-MK3 and Kingsway Video Computer Console controller.  The sticks can be unscrewed.

Identical to Newport Controls' Prostick I.  Came with a 1-year warranty. Retail price $29.95.

Mentioned in the 1982 #8 issue of A.N.A.L.O.G. as a new product.

Same as Newport Controls' Prostick I.  Retail price $29.95.

Advertised at the Summer 1982 CES show, to be available in October. Featured 2 fire buttons and the ability to use with one hand, with a patent pending on the internal switch mechanism. Retail price $14.95.

Standard joystick controller identifiable by its yellow fire button.

Similar to the Gemstik except for having 2 fire buttons.

A unique 2-button joystick with a contoured joystick button and a wider base.  The pcb is stamped September 1983.

Identical to Kraft's Ace joystick except for having "JOYSTICK" in raised, yellow lettering on the top of the case, instead of "ACE".

Identical to Atari's standard joystick except it has "GEMINI" in raised letters on the top above the stick and "VG-170" in raised letters below it.

Designed for the Colecovision.  Looks identical to Amiga's The Power-Stick.

Looks identical to Amiga's The Power-Stick.

The base is identical to the Gemstik, but the handle is larger and includes a fire button (identical to the Gemini Turbo Gemstik).  2 variants of the label exist.

The base is identical to the Gemstik, but the handle is larger and includes a fire button.  A variant also exists with red buttons instead of yellow (identical to the Gemini Rapid Fire).

Heavy-duty micro-switch controller that works quite well but is a little stiff. It has a fire button on either side of the stick and weighs a whopping four pounds!  It's an extremely rare stick (only a few have currently been confirmed to exist).  The ad mentions Ultra Tech Distributors but not GIM Electronics Corp.  Retail price $39.95.

GIM Electronics Fire Command II - VC-2001

Identical to the Fire Command, except for having a base-mounted switch to allow both buttons to work separately for Colecovision systems.

Identical to the Fire Command, except for having 4 fire buttons; designed for use with the Colecovision.  The ad mentions Ultra Tech Distributors but not GIM Electronics Corp.  Retail price $44.95.

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer. This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

Clone of the Discwasher PointMaster Competition Joystick.

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer.  This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

Mentioned in the April 1983 issue of Creative Computing (pg. 30).  Retail price $7.95.

Standard controller bundled with the Retron77 console.

Upgraded version of the Retron77.  Also sold separately.

Premium version of the Retron77, with the only difference being the striped graphics.  Also sold separately.

Unlicensed copy of Atari's Standard Joystick CX40.

Latest reproduction of Suzo's Competition Pro joystick, but of lower quality.

A large, free-standing controller made of hardwood and formica, and designed to be used while sitting. Available in 4 different colors. Retail price $89.95, with a 2-player option for an additional $29.95.

Identical to Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot 318-101.

Looks similar to CBS Games' Booster Grip, but is a full-fledged, baseless controller.

Sturdy microswitch controller that features auto-fire with an LED.

Same as Coin Control's Competition Pro but with different colors.

Same as Suncom's TAC-3 but with different colors.

Standard controller for Kingsway's Video Computer Console system.  Knockoff of Atari's Pro-Line controller and identical to Action Hi-Tech's Hi-Score-MK3 and Funvision Home Computer Game system controller.  The sticks can be unscrewed.

Shown in a 1983 Konami catalog.

Two variants have been found - one with retangular fire buttons, and one with square fire buttons.

A microswitch controller featuring auto-fire.  2 variations exist - one with a black shell and one with a red shell.  An early variation with a gray shell was shown in a Konix promotional video.

Has a base similar to Knoix's Navigator with the addition of an auto-fire switch, and a 2-button stick similar to Beeshu's Hot Stuff.

The video game market had already crashed when this palm-held joystick controller was introduced. It was likely intended for use on home computers.  It uses microswitches.

Variant that is labeled for 2 fire buttons (but only appears to have 1) and an auto-fire switch.

Identical to the Switch Hitter except for having 1 fire button.  Has a small switch on the bottom to select between 4-way and 8-way mode.  Retail price $16.95 - $19.95.

Identical to the black version except for having a light beige case and a black fire button.  Originally shown as having 2 buttons and red lettering.  Retail price $16.95 - $19.95.

A black and red stick with white buttons on the stick and base and suction cups on the bottom. The handle is identical to a Quick-Shot.  Retail price $16.95 - $19.95.

Identical to the Maze Master except for having 2 fire buttons.  Has a small switch on the bottom to select between 4-way and 8-way mode.  Retail price $16.95 - $19.95.

Identical to the black version except for having a light beige case.  Originally shown as having red lettering.  Retail price $16.95 - $19.95.

Controller designed for the disabled.  Includes controls for Select and Reset.  Retail price $65.

Controller designed for the disabled.  Same as model 103 except it includes paddle controller.  Retail price $75.

Controller designed for the disabled.  Retail price $25.

Controller designed for the disabled.  Same as model 106 except has controls for Select and Reset.  Retail price $35.

Includes some half-dozen fire buttons! Where's the logic in that?

Palm-shaped joystick that features 2 fire buttons and auto-fire.

Smaller version of Logic 3's Quatro..

Smaller version of Logic 3's Quatro GT but w/o auto-fire and slow-motion.

Similar to Coin Control's Competition Pro Deluxe, but with fake additional buttons and no auto-fire.

Same as Coin Control's Competition Pro Deluxe but with a slow-motion feature.

Blue pistol grip handle-shaped joystick that features 2 fire buttons and auto-fire.

Blatant ripoff of Atari's standard joystick that includes a Pusher Grabber Ball-like accessory.

This is a favorite among collectors. It was first available for free in a Special Pack that included Adventures of TRON and TRON Deadly Discs.  It was later available via an offer inside copies of those games for $24.95. Replicating the arcade game's stick, this large controller has a wide round base and is easily distinguishable by its bright blue plastic shell. This was made by Championship Electronics and is similar to their Champ Reel-Up controllers, except for the translucent blue casing and similar TRON arcade coin-op joystick.

Another variant of the Milton Bradley MBX design.

Made in Poland.

Featuring... well... one of the most radical designs for a controller. Made in Poland.

Sturdy microswitch controller made in Greece and released in 1985.  It features auto-fire with an LED, and a second pass-thru joystick port on the backside, so that Amstrad CPC (who had only one joystick port) users could connect a second joystick to their computer.  A.S.C. stands for Amstrad / Spectrum / Commodore.  Identical to the JMS Professional Joysitck.  Micro Technica is the same company as John Micro System.  The company was renamed when his son joined the company.

Sturdy microswitch controller made in Greece that features speed and auto-fire switches.

Standard controller for the Onyx Junior system.  A variant exists that is black.

Standard controller for the TV Computer System.  Same as the Dactar joystick. The handle is identical to the Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot 318-101.

Same as Mindscape's Power Player Controller.  Was made with either an all-black or all-red case.

A black trigger-stick with red button and handle. A sticker with the controller's name lines the outer edge.  Sold in Europe as the Phasor One.

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer.  This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

A huge, 2-player controller that came in a storage bag. Can be configured for several different systems.

A variant of the Atari standard joystick, but with "JOYSTICK" in raised letters on top of the base.  There's also a small, rectangular area on the top of the base in the lower-right corner that appears to have been for a plate or sticker.  The pcb has connections for a 2nd fire button, which was on New America Corp's CJ-8352 model, so it appears they used the same pcb for both.

Similar to their standard CX-40 knockoff but with "JOYSTICK" in raised letters on top of the base and a thicker handle that has a 2nd fire button on top of it.  There's also a small, rectangular area on the top of the base in the lower-right corner that was for a sticker, judging from the box photos.

There's also a variant that doesn't have the raised lettering on the top of the base.  The pcb didn't have extra connections for the 2nd fire button.

Rare joystick only available through mail order.  Uses leafswitches.  Some bases are half-red.

Features 2 fire buttons and the ability to switch between 4-way and 8-way. Included a 5-year warranty. Retail price $24.95.

A variant exists that has a single fire button, different joystick base, and a different type font on the base.

Features the ability to switch between 4-way and 8-way, and a 'Tri-Fire Bar' that offers 2 independent fire buttons.  Also comes with a 'Y' adapter cord for use on Colecovision. Included a 5-year warranty. Retail price $29.95.

Designed for the TI-99/4 and TI-99/4a computers and features a switchable gateplate. Included a 5-year warranty. Retail price $29.95.

Marketed for use with the MSX computer.

Used infrared instead of RF.  Retail price $49.95.

A microswitch joystick featuring 2 fire buttoms and auto-fire.

A red-handled joystick with a button on top of the stick.  Model J1020 is a set of joysticks wired together and designed for use with the TI-99/4a computer.

Features a 3-level tension adjustment, 2 fire buttons, and microswitches. Besides black, it was also available in several different color styles, including clear.

Features auto-fire.

Nearly identical to the Commodore VG-115 joystick.  There were also models for Sega (#2), Nintendo (#3), and Dynavision II (#4).

Identical to the Gemini Gemstik VG170.

Identical to the SG Fighter and Spectravideo's SG Fighter A-Storm.

A 3-button controller with a clear plastic shell.

Similar to the SV-121 except for having a fire button on the base was removed and lacking a 'trigger' button on the joystick handle.

Similar to the SV-119 except the fire button the base was removed and is now a 'trigger' button on the joystick handle.

Features a large, over-sized fire button on the top of the joystick, and auto-fire.  2 different boxes exist.

Came out in Europe at the same time with QJ I Turbo, QJ II Turbo, and QJ V, which were all also marketed here under Quickjoy label.

Features the same joystick as the QJ II Turbo along with auto-fire, but with a multitude of buttons and switches and a built-in stop watch/timer.

Similar to the QuickJoy 120 except that it's wireless (infrared).

Identical to Spectravideo's SG Fighter A-Storm.  Unique 2-button joystick with LEDs and extra controls on the stick. Top of the joystick is marked PAT 1054353.

Features 8-way leafswitch joystick with 2 fire buttons.

Features 8-way leafswitch joystick with 2 sets of fire buttons. Designed for use with the Colecovision. Retail price $42.95.

Features 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, and a 12' cord.

Features 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, and 4 suction cups on the bottom.

An arcade style joystick made in very limited quantities by Fred Rubatino of Rubatino Engineering Inc. This stick is fairly heavy, being made out of a wooden base with arcade components. Advertised in a magazine in 1984-85 and priced at $35. REI originally had 100-200 vacuum-formed shells made, but only sold about 20-25 controllers at that time, and years later (in 2003) sold off his remaining stock at $100 each, for a total of 30-50 controllers. The star pattern used on the overlay is a composite of 2 constellations. The 2600 version used the same case but only had a joystick and 1 button.

A microswitch controller with a steel shaft and auto-fire.  Compumart had the exclusive rights to distribute this in the UK where it sold for £12.95 and was guaranteed for 12 months.

Identical to Atari's Standard Joystick CX-40.  Retail price $16.99.

Sold in pairs. Each joystick has 2 buttons and each is marked Right or Left. The box states the controllers feature "trigger action" but there's no button on the joystick for your index (trigger) finger. There's one on the base and one on top of the joystick. The handle is similar to a Quick-Shot.

A 2-button controller with a handle identical to a Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot and a small, gray base.  It has a compartment on the bottom that holds a 9 volt battery, but oddly enough there's no wires to connect the battery, so this might be the same joystick used with the RGA-118 remote controllers.

The handle is identical to a Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot, with a small 'pedestal' base and a four foot cord.

A 3-button controller with a handle identical to a Spectravision/Spectravideo Quick-Shot and a black base similar to RGA's 1160 but with 2 buttons.  It has a compartment on the bottom that holds a 9 volt battery, but oddly enough there's no wires to connect the battery, so this might be the same joystick used with the RGA-118 remote controllers.

Similar to the Video Controller but with a shorter and square shaped joystick handle.

Made in 1992, Grip-It is a one-handed controller similar in design to the Game Handler. It's designed for both the Nintendo NES and any system that uses a standard D-sub 9 pin connector (Sega Genesis, Atari, etc) by way of a special double-ended connector. It features a directional pad, 4 buttons, and an auto-fire switch. There are also 2 LED lights on the top. Patent #91300070-1

Another 2-button Atari standard variant.  Standard controller for the Rinco Television Computer System 128-in-1 system.  The base looks identical to Dar Yar's joystick, with rubber boot around the base of the stick is actually part of the plastic shell. Likely uses a very cheap leafswitch setup, with wires going to screws for the bottom contacts. The stick itself is similar to a Quick-Shot and others, but with an elongated fire button on top.

Marketed for use with the Sanyo MPC-200 computer.  This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

Marketed for use with the Sanyo MPC-200 computer.  This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

A joystick with an Asteroids-style button layout.

Made by Atari for the Sears Tele-Games Video Arcade system.  Identical to Atari's CX10 joystick, except for having a "Sears" hex-shaped plate.

Made by Atari for the Sears Video Arcade II system.  They sold them with their 2800 system.  Sold as a pair and featuring combination joystick+paddle controls.

Right-handed controller. Replaced the SJ-300/300M. Retailed for $20-$25.  Also available packaged with the SMS cart OutRun (sold together for $45 to $65) or the Rapid Fire Unit.

Designed for driving/flying games. Only released in Europe.

Same as 1650 except with a blue start button.

Only released in Europe.  It's basically the same as the original Sega pad except it has two switches which can enable auto-fire for each button.

Standard controller bundled with SG-1000 II consoles. It replaced the SJ-200, and copied its design from the Nintendo Famicom, sporting a D-Pad and two face buttons. The direction pad has a removable thumb stick.

Rare controller and almost identical to the SJ-150 but features round buttons made of hard plastic, as opposed to the SJ-150's oval-shaped rubber buttons. The direction pad has a removable thumb stick. This was released for a short time before the SJ-152.

Standard controller for the Sega Mark III console. Features a rounded square pad instead of a circle, as well as a removable thumb stick.  Precursor to the Sega Master System controller.

Came with the SG-1000 console and also sold separately for the SC-3000. Has 2 fire buttons, one on either side.

Made for the SG-1000 console.

Identical to the SJ-300 except it has blue buttons instead of red.

Features two sets of fire buttons for left or right-handed players.

Marketed for the MXS computer.  Similar to Sega's Control Stick.  Features 3 fire buttons.  Made in Japan and released in 1985.

Identical to the JS-55 except having gray-brown buttons and a b&w label on the top case.  Also no "Made in Japan" sticker on top.

Marketed for use with the MSX computer.  Has a switch for auto-fire.

Identical to the Spectravideo QuickShot II controller except it has a gray-colored base and a red auto-fire switch.

Similar to the SV1, and functions like Roklan's Unroller Controller. Has a switch for auto-fire and a switch for either left or right-handed players.

Another track-ball look-alike joystick controller.

Original model that features a grip-type joystick with a fire button on top, and another in the upper-left.  This was the world's first ergonomic joystick. It was developed by Harry Fox and Peter Law, and patented in 1982 (U.S. Patent D271220).  The pcb is marked SP318-101.  Made in Hong Kong.  A white version was also made for the MSX computers. Retail price  $14.95.

Identical to the Quick-Shot SV-318-101 except for having QuickShot in raised letters on the top of the case, and different writing on the bottom of the case.  The internals are also different.  The pcb inside uses a leafswitch design and is marked SV 101 MSX Version 4.7 and dated 1985.  Made in Hong Kong.  Retail price  $14.95.

Features a single, large thumb firing button, larger joystick handle and an auto-fire switch on the base with on/off positions.  Retail price $14.95.  A white version was also made, for the MSX computers (under the Spectravideo name).  Released in June 1983.  Identical to the SVI Spectravideo QuickShot II controller with the same model number except it says "Spectravideo" in raised letters on the top of the case, and "Spectravideo" on the bottom. Made in Hong Kong.

Identical to the Spectravideo QuickShot II controller with the same model number except it says "QuickShot" in raised letters on the top of the case, and "SVI (R) Spectravideo" on the bottom. Made in Hong Kong.

The difference between the II and II Plus models is that the Plus version used microswitches instead of leafswitches.

Has a switch on the base with 3 settings: auto-fire, manual fire, and CPC 464.  A sticker on the bottom states it was made in Hong Kong.  The internal pcb is marked model SV111A V3 and dated 1987.

Designed for the Colecovision.

Similar to the Quick-Shot except for a larger ball-topped joystick.

Similar to the QuickShot III except instead of the keypad, there's a huge fire button.

Similar to the QS-116 and functions like Roklan's Unroller Controller. Has a switch for either left or right-handed players.

Identical to QJ (QuickJoy) Quality Joystick's SG Fighter. Unique 2-button joystick with LEDs and extra controls on the stick. Bottom of the case is marked PATENT NO. 1054353.

Reviewed in the April 1983 issue of Antic.  Described as being similar to Atari's Standard joystick but having 4 suction cups on the bottom and having 2 fire buttons (with one on top of the stick, which is a molded handgrip). This very likely was renamed the original Quick-Shot.

This (red) joystick was designed as an interface between most standard stationary exercise bicycles and an ATARI 2600 or the computers. The joystick can be installed in ten minutes and works best with Activision's Enduro road race game. Retail price was $39.95.

Identical to the Slik Stick with a different decal.

Similar to Atari's standard VCS joystick but with only 2 dissimilar ridges on the rubber base.

Small and simple joystick featuring a small red ball on the top of the joystick. Unlike most joysticks, this one features an internal metal shaft, making it very durable.  Came with a 90-day warranty. Retail price $9.95.

Subtitled "The Ultimate Joystick". Similar to the Slik Stik but features a bullet-shaped joystick and a 2-year warranty. Retail price $16.95.

Features 2 fire buttons and the joystick uses a metal ball on base design, making it extremely durable. TAC stands for Totally Accurate Controller. A variant also exists with a white casing.  Retail price $19.95.

Features leafswitches and 3 fire buttons - one on top of the stick and 2 on the base.

Uses micro-switches and features a handle that rotated slightly.

A 4-button joystick that uses micro-switches and featured auto-fire.

A very unique controller in that it looks like a grenade!  Made in Denmark.

The original version used leafswitches and had a black stick.  The case was marked "STC Rotterdam" (for Suzo Trading Company).  The company is located in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Although they claim controllers sold in the UK were made in the Netherlands, the original Competition Pro leafswitch joysticks sold there have "Made in the U.S.A. molded in the bottom of the case, with a "Made in the U.K." sticker on top of it.

Same as the original, leafswitch model except it uses microswitches (noted by a sticker on the box) and has a red stick.  This was later known as the Competition Pro 5000, and produced (under license?) by Coin Controls, Inc.

A single-button joystick, created in Holland by Netherlands-based Suzo, that was popular with MSX owners.  There was also a beige one for the C-64.

Similar to the original except for having 2 fire buttons.

Nearly identical to the Competition Pro joystick, except for having a slightly-different stick.

Same as the Prof Competition except for having redesigned fire buttons.

Similar to the Prof Competition except for having an extra fire button on the stick, auto-fire, and suction cups on the base.

Features auto-fire.

Offers "squeeze action firing" and a 15-day trial period with a 1-year warranty. Judging from the photo in the ad, it appears to either use mercury switches for the directions or a movable top, much like the Zircon Video Command. Retail price $29.95.

Boasts of "high-speed conductive elastomer switches with 24K gold contacts" and a patended velcro/elastic leg belt. Retail price $27.95.

They also advertised a High Speed Switch Kit with all the same parts, I'm guessing to convert a standard Atari joystick, for $9.95.

Designed for use by handicap persons.  Also sold by Turning Point, and in the U.K. by Tech Cess.

Identical to Bondwell's Quickshot Python 1 Turbo III and Python 1M (inside and out), with 2 fire buttons, auto-fire, a 4-position operating mode selector, and suction cups on the base).

Identical to Zip Stick's Super Pro.  Features auto-fire.

Similar to the Atari Pro-Line joystick, except for an auto-fire switch on the nameplate.

A self-centered joystick, similar to the Odyssey 2, that features a fire button that can be swapped for either left or right-handed players.  Retail price $34.95.

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer.  This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

Released in 1987 and only in Germany. The controller's shell appears to have space designed for turbo features, but this feature was scrapped after the Taiwanese manufacturer struggled to understand the circuitry behind it.

Was to be the standard controller for the Ultravision Computer Video System (LINK).

A Genesis controller clone that's wireless.

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer.  This was designed by several different manufacturers under different names, model numbers, and colors (Canon, Fujitsu, Gradiente, Panasonic, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Sanyo, Toshiba, Victor).

Another blatant rip-off of Atari's CX-40 joystick.  This one has a red base with 2 fire buttons and "TOP" in large, raised letters on the top.  Retail price $29.95.

Strange joystick+joypad hybrid that offers auto-fire and is configured for either right or left-handed players.

Appears to be the same as the HS-15 model.  Retail price $39.95.

The first of Wico's 'Command Control' series of controllers. It features an extra-long arcade-style bat handle grip, and a switch for using either the base or handle fire button. Came with 1-year limited warranty.  Retail price $29.95.

A rare variant with an all-black base.

One of their 'Command Control' series of controllers. Similar to the Power Grip, except it has a different base and lacks the Base/Stick switch.  A variation exists with a yellow button.  Retail price $19.95.

Similar to Wico's Bat Handle joystick except that it features an extra-long arcade-style bat handle grip and a deluxe oversize heavy duty plastic base that slopes toward the player.  Retail price $39.95.

Same as Konix's SpeedKing, except it has a rubber shell over the plastic shell.

One of their 'Command Control' series of controllers. Arcade type red ball handle for the tip of a standard joystick.  Retail price $29.95.

A rare variant with an all-red base.

One of their 'Command Control' series of controllers.  This is actually a stripped-down version of the Super Three-Way. It is exactly the same stick with the gate lock and all but comes with just the grip handle (you can fit extra ones from both Three-Way sets on it).

Designed for the Colecovision.

One of their 'Command Control' series of controllers.  Retail price $29.95.

A cheaply-made controller that apparently was only released in France.

One of their 'Command Control' series of controllers.  The appeal with this joystick is the trio of interchangeable handles (the grip, the ball, and the bat) complete with their individual fire buttons.  It comes with bat, ball and grip handles.  It was also available as a "bat only" product at one time.  It has a gate lock and the button selector is "1" and "2" (note the difference to "Base" and "Stick" in regular Wicos).  Retail price  $44.95.

One of their 'Command Control' series of controllers.  The appeal with this joystick is the trio of interchangeable handles (the grip, the ball, and the bat) complete with their individual fire buttons.  It was also available as a "bat only" product at one time. The ball handle has been replaced with another handle that looks a bit like a car shifter knob. It doesn't have gate lock and the button selector is "F1" and "F1/F2" (= both at once).  Retail price  $44.95.

It's called a joystick on the box, but it's a joypad. Features a left thumb directional pad and 2 fire buttons - one marked "Turbo" and the other "A". Produced in at least 2 different colors schemes.

Same as the UFO except it's wireless.

Identical to Euromax's Pro Ace.

Identical to Euromax's Pro Ace.

Features auto-fire.

Very similar to the Fairchild Channel F grip-style controller, with a triangular-headed stub at the top. Pushing down on the stub serves as the fire button. Retail price $14.95.

A variant. Instead of pushing down on the stub to fire, a small red button near the index finger serves as the fire button. Retail price  $14.95. Box states the controller offers a "new rapid fire button" and the controller had a full 1-year limited warranty.  Retail price $14.95.

Another variant with a red case and a round, chrome handle.  Retail price $14.95.

Similar to the Video Command controller but is chrome-colored and offers 2 methods of control - the Maze Control allows for only 4-way control, and the Speed Control allows players to slow down their movements by 50%. It also offers auto-fire. Retail price $29.95.

Similar to Atari's standard VCS joystick except it's red with a gray joystick and fire button.  Packaged with the Diablo 128 pirate system clone.  The rubber boot and joystick are identical to Rinco's joystick.  The internal switches are a very cheap leafswitch setup, with wires going to screws for the bottom contacts.

Another 2-button Atari standard variant, packaged with pirate system clones such as Rambo TV Game and TV Game 2600.  The base looks similar to Atari's standard joystick except the top of the base doesn't have the raised dashes and instead has a raised, smooth area. The rubber boot and joystick are identical to Rinco's joystick.  The internal switches are a very cheap leafswitch setup, with wires going to screws for the bottom contacts.

Similar to the Bebek joystick except the top-half of the joystick is red, and the trim design around the base of the joystick is different.

A hexagon-shaped joystick with 2 square fire buttons (both on the base).

Features a retractable cord, similar to Championship Electronics controllers.

A Taiwan variant of the Commodore 1311 joystick.

Features triangular-shaped firing buttons on the base, similar to some Commodore controllers.

Here's what appears to be an unknown Wico variant, but there's enough differences with it to make me think it's some knockoff:

It has a bat handle, but the button is black, not white.

The "arrows" around the base of the joystick look similar to those from the Grip Handle and Super Three-Way models.

The raise base around the joystick is square not round like most Wico controllers, although The Boss has a similar square base.

The auto-fire switch is on the bottom, not the top like every other Wico controller with one.

There's no name or text on the bottom of the base, unlike every other Wico controller.

Wico controllers say "WICO" in raised letters on the controller plug. That one has a circle (3rd picture), similar to a Suncom controller plug.

The raised stress-relief area on the controller wire at the base is squared, not round like most Wico controllers. The location on most Wico controllers is closer to the corner.

There are 2 fire buttons on the base. The only Wico controller I know of that has that is the Q Stick, which doesn't even resemble any other Wico controllers (and was probably something that Wico either sub-contracted for, or licensed and put their name on it. Similar to what they did with the Ergostick).
 

The joystick uses 4 microswitches instead of leafswitches.  Also, the 2 fire buttons on the base use 'dome' contact switches.

A single button controller that looks vaguely similar to a 5200 controller.

A 2- button controller that looks like a Wico variant.

Sold from Spain on Ebay as a Competition Pro replica, but it's identical to a Euromax controller (except the name isn't on the bottom).  Has 2 square buttons and what appears to be an auto-fire switch.  There are 4 suction cups on the bottom.

Sometimes packaged with the Edu Games 2600 and Artkaris clones from Argentina.

Nearly identical to the Commodore VG-115 joystick but without auto-fire.  Sometimes packaged with the Edu Games 2600 clone from Argentina.

Sometimes packaged with the Video Computer 2600 clone from Argentina.

It's unknown if this is a compatible joystick.

Contoured base designed to fit in your hand, with 3 fire buttons and what might be an auto-fire switch.

Nearly identical to the Commodore VG-115 joystick with auto-fire.  The bottom of the case is marked PATENTED NO:9391.  The pcb is marked VG-125-06 AQ TL.

Made in Yugoslavia (now Slovenia). The joystick handle is the same type that was used on skiing poles! The "switches were simply pieces of aluminum that were pushed together, making reliability quite poor.

Similar to some of Suzo's controllers, and could possibly be made by them.  Features what appears to be an auto-fire switch.

Huge ball-top joystick with fire buttons on either side of the ball, and 2 more on the base.  Features micro-switches and auto-fire.  One slide switch is marked "Auto Off" and the other is for the speed of the auto fire ("1", "2", and "3").  The sticker at the top of the base is in German.  The box has a photo of a red model with black fire buttons and switches.

Has 2 buttons and auto-fire. There are 4 suction cups on the bottom.

Nearly identical to the Commodore VG-115 joystick but without auto-fire.  The pcb is marked VG-125-01 AQ TL.

Identical to the Bondwell Quickshot Python 3.

Identical to the Dismarc Superstick.

A microswitch controller featuring 2 fire buttons, with a large one on top of the joystick. Included an adaptor for Spectrum Plus 2/Plus 3 computers.

Unique controller with a round base.  Made in Chile.

Made in Hong Kong, this stick looks a little like the Video Command Joystick by Zircon but isn't marked with a manufacturer.

Another blatant ripoff of Atari's standard joystick, which looks identical to the Commodore VIC-20 joystick except for having a sticker that says "JOY STICK".

Sometimes packaged with the Edu Games 2600 clone from Argentina.

Features carbon contacts on the stick and suction cups on the base.  Compatible with a Mega Drive stick (the blue button is Start and the other 3 are A, B, and C).

Marketed for use with the MSX computer.

Another large ball-top joystick controller with micro-switches and auto-fire that features 6 fire buttons (half marked "Quick" and the other half "Normal".  The name on the box is Quick Gun Joyball but the name on the top of the case says Datex Joy Ball.

A baseless joystick that has a suction cup on the bottom. It uses mercury switches.

Knockoff of Coin Control's Competition Pro joystick, except for having black base, buttons, and joystick handle, and red top case.

Basically a clone of Spectravision's Quickshot II Plus joystick, with the addition of 2 extra buttons on the base.

Similar in style to the Commodore VG-115 joystick.

Joypads

Clear the runway, the Flying Wing is about to take off!  Not sure why someone would design a controller that keeps your hands shoulder-width apart.

2-button "joypad", each with its own auto-fire switch.

Also known as the Joypad. The direction pad has a removable thumb stick. This was originally to be released with the 7800 in an attempt to capitalize on the rising popularity of the Nintendo NES and its controllers, but only saw release overseas.

Standard controller for the BIT-7000 (red) and Creator 30 (blue) systems. Although it's called a joystick, it's a joypad.

Shaped like a handlebar and featuring an 8-way directional thumb-pad and auto-fire.

Joypad controller that features auto-fire. Identical to the TechnoPlus Swift.

Wireless joypad controller that features auto-fire.

The direction pad has a removable thumb stick. The center section is interchangeable with one that allows NES compatibility.

Copy of the Sega Genesis controller.

Copy of the Sega Genesis controller. There's a switch on the bottom marked 'A' and 'B'.

Copy of the Sega Genesis controller, with more buttons.

A Genesis controller clone with 6 buttons and a removable stick attachment.

A Genesis controller clone with 6 buttons and a removable stick attachment.

2-button "joypad", each with its own auto-fire switch.

Features four fire buttons - two of which are dedicated auto-fire.

Designed for the Sega Mega Drive.  It's a 6-button controller with turbo and auto-fire, and is a simplified version of the Pro Control 6. There are two versions of this controller - one has the MODE button on the front panel and the other has 2 MODE buttons on the top side.  Made in Taiwan.

Designed for use with the CD32 console.

Standard "joypad" controller for the Memory Game system.

Optional gamepad controller for the Retron77 console.

Versions designd for both the Sega Mega Drive and Super Nintendo.  Simplfied versions exist as the Fighter Control by Naki and a similar pad by Dragon.

Odd joypad controller that's designed to be used while holding the controller vertically!

2-button joypad designed for Atari.  ATAK stands for Accelerated Touch Advanced Kit.

2-button joypad designed for Sega.  ATAK stands for Accelerated Touch Advanced Kit.

Bizarre little controller that looks like a trackball but functions as any digital joystick would (and doesn't output true analog signals). Pressing the top side of the "ball" is up, pressing the right side is right, etc.

Standard controller for the Sega Master System.

A joypad-type controller.

6-button joypad controller that features turbo and auto-fire switches.

Joypad controller that features auto-fire. Identical to the Quickshot game pad.

From Argentina.

Paddles

Knockoff of Atari's standard paddle controller.

Standard paddle controller that used a potentiometer and a microswitch for the fire button. These were manufactured in pairs, with both controllers being connected to a single plug. The controllers are durable, but the pots require periodic cleaning. 2 different versions exist. The original version released in 1977 has a different label with the Atari name and logo next to large tennis rackets. The product number is also different (CX30-04).  Retail price $21.95.

Released in 1978, this is identical to the original version except the label has "paddle" in place of the Atari name and logo, with slightly smaller tennis rackets. The model is also shorter (CX30).  Retail price $21.95.

Combination joystick+paddle. Description: "Advanced Controller Set with Built-in Joystick & Paddle. Now your customers can play all Atari 2600 VCS compatible games requiring joystick or paddle with one set of controllers. The DUAL COMMAND controllers were designed with a responsive, omni-directional joystick and side-mounted fire buttons, plus a rotary paddle control. These inexpensive high-quality controllers plug right into the control ports of the Atari 2600 VCS, or ColecoVision Expansion Module #1. They're also original equipment replacements for Coleco's Gemini Video Game System. To switch from joystick to paddle, just use the included Wye connector. The DUAL COMMAND controllers offer improved control at a price that's right!" Using the Y cable doesn't switch between joystick and paddle, but simply allows 2 or more players to play paddle games using these controllers. You also can't use it as a joystick with the Y cable, since it's missing the left, right, and fire button lines.

Combination joystick+paddle.

Identical to Atari's paddles except the top-half of the controller shell is white and there's no sticker below the knob (or an indentation for it); instead, "Commodore" appears in raised silver lettering above the knob. The potentiometer inside the VIC-20's paddle controllers uses a 470k-Ohm resistor while that of the Atari is 1000-Ohm. This gives the VIC-20 paddles a slightly wider "sweep" range. Although no model number was printed on the packaging for Commodore paddles, the Atari style white paddles were give the designation VIC-1312 in some product lists. The name on the box is "Paddle" (singular) although these are a set.

A unique paddle with a dark gray, angled shell and a large, rectangular fire button above the knob. The knob is similar to Atari's paddle, except it's light gray. This was possibly done to match either the C16 or the C64, although the box still has the same VIC-20 styling, but the name is corrrectly plural ("Paddles").

Bundled with the Dactar Video Game II (case) system.

Bundled with the Digivision console.

Packaged with Dismac's VCS/2600 clone.  From the photo it appears the paddle controller uses the same shell as a standard joystick, but with a pot+knob in place of the joystick.

Rare paddle controller that featured suction cups on the base. It was only available in Brazil. Description from ad: "The control of strong emotions. The Dynacom Paddle Controller is the only unique rotary controller for video games that allows precise and highly reliable shots. The Paddle Controller can be used in Dynavision and other games compatible with the Atari system. To ensure strong emotions with your Paddle Controller, the following games are already available."

Identical to Atari's paddles, except there's no sticker below the knob (or an indentation for it); instead, "GEMINI" appears in raised lettering above the knob. "MADE IN TAIWAN" is molded in raised letters on the bottom.

Made by Atari for the Sears Tele-Games Video Arcade system.  Identical to Atari's paddles except for the packaging and label.

Made by Atari for the Sears Tele-Games Video Arcade II system.  They sold them with their 2800 system.  Sold as a pair and featuring combination joystick+paddle controls.

Nearly-identical to Atari's paddles, except there's no sticker below the knob (or an indentation for it); instead, "PADDLE" appears above the knob in raised lettering.

Nearly-identical to Atari's paddles, except there's a gold sticker with black lettering with "PADDLE" across the top.

Nearly-identical to Atari's paddles, except with a white case and a sticker with "Vecor" across the top.  Another set has been found with simply "PADDLE" on the sticker.

Nothing more than a hacked set of paddles that use the shells from Atari's CX24 Pro-Line joysticks. Retail price $39.95.

Sold in Germany and probably manufactured in China.

Sold in Germany and probably manufactured in China.

Nearly-identical to Atari's paddles, except instead of where the sticker would be (below the knob), "PADDLE" appears in large, raised lettering.

White with gray knobs, with what appears to be a right-handed fire button.

Trackballs

Rather uncommon trak-ball controller.

One of Atari's "Pro-Line" Advanced Controllers. This was announced in the Jan/Feb '83 issue of the Atari Age as due out by that summer, and a company flyer notes it was "coming in June '83"; the May/June '83 issue of the Atari Age noted it would be available in July for $44.95. The original version has a white ball, round fire buttons, and an all-black case and includes "Pro-Line" in the name on the top. Although the case has a hole and markings on the left side for a Trak-Ball/joystick mode switch, the pcb design doesn't support it (and the hole is covered up). The 2nd version has a white base (and no "Pro-Line" text on top) and the pcb has the mode switch. Since Atari never released a VCS game that actually supported a true Trak-Ball (i.e. analog) mode, the controller simulates analog movement by pulsing the digital signals.  Designed by Dan Kramer and Levon Mitchell.  Early case designs were done by Tom Palecki.  The switchless variants were made in El Paso, TX while the switched variants were made in Mexico. Known serial numbers would indicate there were less than 15,000 of the switchless variants made. Both variants might have been released at the same time, and the El Paso, TX plant was closed sometime between April - September 1983, which would explain the low number of the switchless variants, whereas at least close to 200,000 of the switched variant were made.

Redesigned "XL-style" model (black ball, triangular fire buttons). The mode switch is now on the back and is marked "JS" (for joystick) and "TB" (for Trak-Ball). Note that there are 2 different (internal) versions of this model as well - the 1st is compatible with the CX-22 (and offers simulated Trak-Ball movement); the 2nd is compatible with the Atari ST mouse (some jumpers were added to the board inside). The only way to tell which version you have is to either try it, or open it up and look for the jumpers. Since Atari never released a VCS game that actually supported a true Trak-Ball (i.e. analog) mode, the controller operates the same as a joystick. Designed by Dan Kramer, Levon Mitchell, and Barry Marshall. The case was designed by Tom Palecki.

Marketed for use with the MSX HX-10 computer.  Included a cassette program, "Eddy".  Whether or not this is compatible with the Atari systems is unknown.

Looks nearly-identical to the Wico Trackball, except for the lack of raised lettering and higher edging around the fire button.

2 versions exist.  One has a switch for selecting between Sega Sports Pad mode and joystick mode.  When in joystick mode, it works with Atari games in place of standard joystick.  When in Sports Pad mode, if offers simulated analog control.

Announced at the Winter 1983 CES and shown at the Summer 1983 CES, but apparently never released. According to company literature, their trackball controller was modeled after the $1,200 trackballs used to train U.S. astronauts.  Ted Gilliam, founder and president of TG Products, said his company planned to market many other new products during 1983 (InfoWorld, February 14th, 1983, pg. 28); one, he said, will be "a totally revolutionary joystick" designed to fit Atari joystick-compatible computers and video game systems.  The April 11th, 1983 issue of InfoWorld (pg. 26) has an article and a review of the prototype track ball controller, which only had 1 button.  The October 1983 issue of Electronic Games is the only publication that stated a different product number (TTB-800) and said it has a pair of action buttons. It also mentioned TG made a version for the Apple II and IBM PC with 3 fire buttons.  The April 1984 issue of Computer Games (pg. 9) mentioned TG Products shelved their plans to release Atari-compatible trackball controllers but had released the Apple II and IBM PC models.  Retail price $64.95.

One of their 'Command Control' series of controllers. This doesn't output true analog signals, only simulated analog controls, which are inferior to Atari's CX22.  Retail price $69.95.

A red-cased controller that offers dual fire buttons (for both right and left-handed players) and variable auto-fire. A prototype was shown in the November 1983 issue of Electronic Fun (pg. 6). The October 1983 issue of Video Games (pg. 36) mentioned it was the lowest-priced trackball controller at the Summer CES show at $29.95. The April 1984 issue of Computer Games (pg. 9) mentioned Zircon shelved their plans to release Atari-compatible trackball controllers.

Keypads

For use with the BASIC Programming cartridge and a few others.

An oversized keypad controller similar in function to the Keyboard Controller and Video Touch Pad. Designed for use with the Children's Television Workshop (CCW) games. It seems someone in Atari's marketing department forgot a basic rule of grammar in regards to plural possessive - specifically on using an apostrophe correctly in plural nouns. Early marketing had the name spelled correctly (Kids') but the released version doesn't (Kid's). 

Redesigned keyboard controller that was included with Star Raiders. This is the only game with an overlay specifically designed for this controller.  Retail price $21.95.

Identical to Atari's Keyboard Controller.

Identical to Atari's Video Touch Pad.

Specialty Controllers

Mentioned in the October 1982 issue of Creative Computing (pg. 209).  Retail price $29.95.

The full name for this was The Joyboard Power Body Controller. It's a large, flat, black board with red lettering that you stand on to control your games. By rocking back and forth and side-to-side, you simulate the joystick motions. An additional port in the Joyboard allows you to plug in a stick for use with games that need a button. Packaged with Mogul Maniac.

Identical to the XE Light gun, other than being red with black. This variation was meant for the 2600 and 7800 systems, but it never went into production, and only a handful of prototypes exist.

Packaged with the game Indy 500/Race, which was the only game to officially support it, although a few homebrew games do as well (Stell-A-Sketch, Stella's Stocking, and Thrust Plus: Driving Controller Edition).  2 different versions exist.  The original version released in 1977 has a label with the Atari name and logo next a large Indy car.  A few homebrew games also support it (Stell-A-Sketch, Stella's Stocking, and Thrust Plus: Driving Controller Edition).  Retail price $21.95/pair.

Released in 1978, this is identical to the original version except the label has "driving" in place of the Atari name and logo, with a slightly smaller Indy car.  Retail price $21.95/pair.

Designed by Wico. Packaged with the Track & Field cartridge. Also works well with Activision's Decathlon, as well as any "slide and shoot" games like Space Invaders.

Packaged with the XE Game System along with the Bug Hunt cartridge. This gun is also compatible with a handful of games on the Atari 7800 and a single game on the 2600 (Sentinel). The box has photos of a red-colored gun, which was originally intended for the 2600/7800 version. Atari simply repurposed the boxes for overseas releases!.

An all-button controller with an Asteroids-style layout and "Super Rapid-Fire". Advertised in magazines for $29.95.

Packaged with Omega Race, this attachment adds an additional fire button to a standard Atari 2600 joystick. It fits over the joystick and has a cable with an inline connector on it; you plug the joystick into one end, and the other end plugs into the system. The trigger button is wired up to the Paddle A line (pin 5) and the +5v (pin 7). This becomes your fire button. The other 2 buttons are for thrust.

An adaptive device that allows the user to perform the functions of a VCS console using the controls of a DU-IT, DLT, DLT-X, or MCB wheelchair-based control system. Retail price $620.

Packaged with the games Video Jogger and Video Reflex.

A specially-designed joystick controller for use while exercising, and included a list of recommended games to use. The controller has a switch for either single or double fire. The company was based in Berwyn, IL, and had a patent pending for this. From a brochure: "Put real meaning into the time you spend video-gaming. And put your computer/video game equipment to the best use yet: your personal fitness and health. Video Fitness System lets your body "talk" to computers to control the action on the screen. Your body will reward you by getting into the shape you've always wanted. You can use VFS with almost any game cartridge that gives you a thrill." Suggested retail price was $79.90.

Packaged with the game Survival Run.  It's nothing more than a glorified joystick controller, and not a very good one. Difficult to find, especially in working condition.

Packaged with the game Spitfire Attack.  It's nothing more than a glorified joystick controller, and not a very good one. Difficult to find, especially in working condition.

Similar to the Starplex but more cheaply built. Came with a 2-year warranty. Retail price $19.95. A Colecovision model was also made, and retailed for $22.95.

Controller designed for the disabled.  Same as the FingerTip Controller.  Retail price $20.

Controller designed for the disabled.  Similar to the FingerTip Controller except that it includes paddle, Select, and Reset controls.  A left-handed model was also available.  Retail price $45.

Controller designed for the disabled.  Retail price $30.

Connects between the system and the joystick/joypad. You select which joystick movements (up to 3) are made by the pedal by configuring the appropriate switches on the pedal.

Features leafswitch button controller with an Asteroids-style layout. Retail price $34.95.

An all-button controller that features auto-fire and "burst-fire".  Retail price £18.85.

Made by Atari for the Sears Tele-Games Video Arcade system and packaged with the Race game.  Identical to Atari's paddles except for the packaging and label.

An all-button controller with an Asteroids-style layout. The controller is very responsive and works great for Asteroids and Space Invaders (like they are in the arcade).  It also has a switch which selects between Normal and Astroblast (auto-fire).  On the back there is a panel to insert a AA battery, which is needed for auto-fire (why it doesn't simply use the +5v controller pin from the console, we don't know).  Some boxes show a silver overlay (with the name "Starplex Controller") which does exist, but the wood grain version (with the name "Video Game Controller") is more common. Retail price  $29.95.

This controller somewhat resembles an Intellivision controller, but there isn't actually a disc at the bottom. Instead, a sensor "reads" your finger and responds accordingly onscreen. 2 different versions exist, but the differences appear cosmetic. Suncom revived this design in the 16-bit era with the "Turbo Touch 360" controller. Retail price $34.95.

Large button controller in the shape of a D-pad.  Designed for use by handicap persons.  Also sold by Turning Point, and in the U.K. by Tech Cess.

Button controller in the shape of a wing.  Designed for use by handicap persons.  Also sold by Turning Point, and in the U.K. by Tech Cess.

An unusual keypad-type controller with 5 buttons (shield, thrust, left, right, and fire-replay).  Sold for less than $15.

A rare 5-button controller.

Auto-Fire Modules

Rapid-fire module that connects between the joystick and the console and operates at a pre-set rate.  Retail price $9.94.

Rapid-fire module that connects between the joystick and the console and operates at a pre-set rate.

Allows variable rates of rapid fire by adjusting a potentiometer.

Allows variable rates of rapid fire by adjusting a potentiometer. Looks like a knock-off of Questar's Blaster module.  These were selling for $2.99 at Kay-Bee Toys.

Allows variable rates of rapid fire by adjusting a potentiometer.

Same as Quest Star Blaster, just in a redesigned case. Retail price $12.95.

Allows variable rates of rapid fire by adjusting a potentiometer. Advertised for 14.95.

Also known as the Rapid Fire in Brazil.  The switches control the 2 fire buttons found on Sega controllers.  In North America this unit was offered by Sega via their early "Team Sega" newsletters.  Buying three games would get you a rapid fire unit, though it was also available to purchase separately in stores.  It was also packaged with Sega's Control Stick under the name "Rapid Fire Control Stick".

Allows variable rates of rapid fire by adjusting a potentiometer.

Allows variable rates of rapid fire by adjusting a potentiometer.

Recent 'homebrew' effort.  Currently sold on Ebay.

Rapid-fire module that connects between the joystick and the console and operates at a pre-set rate. Looks like a knock-off of Discwasher's PointMaster Fire Control module. Back of it says "Made in Hong Kong".

Accessories

Originally sold as a pair. This slid over a standard Atari joystick and featured a fire button on top which pressed the existing fire button. Retail price $9.95

Originally packaged in a large box that opened to reveal a built-in controller holder that held 2 joysticks together in an attempt to simulate the arcade experience.

Same as those made by Pusher. Retail price $3.75.

10' joystick extension cable. Retail price $14.95.

Allows 2 joysticks to be connected to 1 controller port.

Sold as a pair. Same as those made by Pusher.

Since the system only has 2 controller ports, a set of Y adapters were included to allow 2 of the combo controllers to share one port (for paddle games with 2 or more players). The CBS system (which is a relabeled Gemini) also used these.  Note that you can't use a joystick with these since they're missing the left, right, and fire button lines.

Sold as a pair. Same as those made by Pusher. Retail Price $3.95.

Look identical to those made by Pusher (and probably made by them). This was an advertising item for a video game store in Brazil called Electronic GAMES.

Similar to Kay Enterprises' Stick Stand, but the base is different. Also includes a red joystick knob.

Sold as a pair. Same as those made by Pusher.

20' extension cable.

Advertised as a "joystick stabilizer support and score enhancer".  Made of walnut.  Controllers had to be screwed to the base.  Retail price $34.95 each or 2 for $64.95.

Replacement plastic insert for Atari standard joystick controllers. Retail price $4.35.

An attachment for Atari Standard joysticks that provides a wider base. Retail price $6.99 or $12 for 2.

For standard Atari joystick controllers. Includes Fastball Easy-Grip Control Knob.

Not as unpleasant as the name suggests - this accessory merely attaches to the top of a standard stick and turns it into an "arcade"-like controller. The company went by the trademarked name Push-A-Matic in their ads.

A reverse 'Y' cable that allows 1 joystick to be connected to 2 controller ports.

A plastic holder that you insert an Atari standard controller or similarly-sized controller into. It has flaps that you sit on, which holds the device in place.  Retail price $14.95.

The 10" model (V127) retailed for $8.99.  The 20" model (V128) retailed for $11.99.

Cliff Blake of Screensonics was based in St. Louis, MO. He apparently was the first to offer extension cords for controllers, and sold these for under $15.

Packaged with the game Spy Hunter to allow both joysticks to snap into one unit.

Basically a plank of wood with a hole in the center that holds a standard-size Atari joystick.  A version was also sold that holds several different Wico joysticks that use the same base (Bat Handle, Boss, The Grip, etc).  Sold for $14.95 and available in both poplar or walnut finish.

Ok, so what's the REAL purpose of this?  How does converting a handheld controller into an arcade control panel help your scores?  It's not going to eliminate hand cramps and wrist fatigue, it's only going to exacerbate it.  Plus, having a 3 pound board in your lap can't be all that comfortable.  And I'm sure parents loved it when their little gamer used it to swat a sibling, friend, or family pet.  Besides, as anyone who's been called to the principal's office will tell you, the last thing a kid wants to see is a board, especially one that's been customized to reduce airflow.  Yeah, this has bad idea written all over it... or at least it should have.  And if the preceding reasons weren't enough, consider paying $15 for a piece of wood with a hole in it.

Similar to the Stick Station except it's plastic.  The shell can be opened for possible storage use.

A 22" high plastic pedestal on which you Velcro your controller. Retail price $29.95 for a set of 2.

Converts joysticks to left-handed use. Retail price $6.95.

Suncom 5' Joystick extension cable

Retail price $5.95.

Allows Atari-compatible joysticks to be used with TI computers.  Retail price $12.95.

Similar to the Stick Station, except it has a larger hole for different controllers. Retail price originally $12.95 and later $9.95.

Retail price $3.95.

Ultra Tech Distributors Lefty Joystick Adapter - 1009

Converts joysticks to left-handed use. Retail price $3.95.

A weighted base that holds Atari or Colecovision joysticks. Model HS 2 holds 2 controllers. Retail price $6.95.

Wico 12' Video System Extension Cord - #15-1756

Allows Atari-compatible joysticks to be used with TI computers.

Joystick extension cable.