If you’re a gamer, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of playing vertical arcade games on your phone. Enter Max Kern, a modder who has developed a solution to this issue with his innovative Tate mode mini controller. But the burning question remains: does it truly address the problem?

Traditional controllers are designed for landscape mode gaming, much like those used on a Switch or Steam Deck. Yet, classic vertical shooters and retro games require you to hold your phone in portrait mode, akin to scrolling through Instagram.

Max Kern's solution is a compact USB-C gamepad tailored specifically for portrait-mode gaming, also known as Tate mode. This nifty device plugs directly into your phone’s USB-C port, eliminating the need for Bluetooth, charging, or additional batteries.

Max crafted the Tate Mode mini controller using a Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip and 3D-printed the case and buttons through JLCPCB. If you're feeling adventurous, you can follow his detailed tutorial on his YouTube channel.

Watch Max Kern’s YouTube video on the Tate Mode mini controller here.

The controller uses the versatile GP2040-CE firmware, functioning as a standard HID controller compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, making it highly adaptable for its size.

However, there's a potential downside: the setup may strain the USB-C port, as the gamepad supports part of the phone’s weight. This means you'll need to carefully manage the positioning of both the phone and the controller to avoid damaging the connector over time.

On Reddit, opinions are split. Some users admire the creativity but express concerns about potential hand cramps and comfort issues, while others are more open to giving it a try.

It’s important to note that calling this a product might be a stretch, as it's more of a DIY project. Max has generously shared all the firmware and print files on Thingiverse and Github, making it accessible for anyone interested in building their own.

What are your thoughts on this innovative tiny gamepad? Leave a comment and let us know!

Before you go, don’t miss our latest news on the Zombie Survival Shooting RPG Darkest Days, now available on Android.