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The Sega Genesis 6 button controller quietly changed the arcade fun into the living room. It had two extra rows of buttons for the thumb to create a gaming pad with six buttons. This allowed for more complex moves in fighting games like Street Fighter 2: The World Warrior. Players could use combinations of hits, special moves, and dashes, all mapped to the six-button layout.
In the past, controllers usually only had Start, Select, and A, B, C buttons in one row. The six-button design gave players a competitive edge and made it easier to perform advanced maneuvers. It was made more popular in 1994 by a sports fighting game called Fatal Fury 3: Road to the Final Victory.
When the Sega Saturn was released, it came with a 3D controller that had only four buttons. The six-button arrangement provided a familiar scheme for players when transitioning to the Sega Saturn. It made games with multi-button attacks less frustrating and more accessible to a wider audience.
This Sega controller laid the groundwork for modern game pads with an ABXY or directional button set. Developers now expected six buttons so that they could create rich experiences that required complex inputs during gameplay. There are several types of six-button controllers:
The genesis 6 button controller from SEGA has various essential features that enhance its performance and gaming experience.
Increased Number of Buttons
The major difference between the 6-button controller and the 3-button one is the number of buttons. The 6-button controller has, as the name suggests, 6 buttons positioned on the front of the controller. These buttons are divided into two rows, each containing 3 buttons. The buttons are located under the letters A, B, C, X, Y, and Z. Hence, there are 6 buttons that a player can use during gameplay, as opposed to the 3-button controller, which has only A, B, and C buttons. The increase in the number of buttons allows the player to have more options and control different moves using different buttons.
Button Mapping
The design of the 6-button controller gives players the option to remap buttons according to their preferences. The button mapping feature allows customization of controls so that players can use buttons they feel comfortable with. The mapping feature is done by pressing the mapping button and then pressing the buttons that the player wants to assign to a specific function. The mapping options may differ depending on the game, allowing for customization features.
Turbo Function
Many games require button mashing or rapid button presses for specific sections or to perform certain moves. The turbo function allows players to hold down a button, and it will automatically execute rapid presses. This makes such sections much easier. The turbo function is beneficial for fighting games where combos require many consecutive presses. The turbo function shows how the controller enhances the gaming experience for players who like fast-paced action.
Improved Design
Compared to the original design, the 6-button design offers improved ergonomics for more comfortable usage. Features such as the turbo button and button layout make the design more comfortable to use. The placement of the buttons is ideal for easy access, and they do not cause hand strain, even after long hours of playing games.
Accessibility
Different games require different controllers, and having a 6-button option increases the number of controllers that players can use the controller on. The button layout makes it familiar for players who have used similar controllers, thus enhancing the experience. Accessibility options in gaming are important, and this controller gives players different options for accessibility and comfort.
The Sega Genesis 6 button controller is a classic gaming controller that is widely used to play retro games. However, there are other applications of the 6 button controller that are not related to gaming. They are as follows:
Arcade Emulator
The Sega 6-btn pad is the ideal controller for any arcade emulator. It's common knowledge that arcade games are hard to play with regular gamepads. However, the Sega 6-button controller makes it easy to play arcade emulators with gamepads. A popular emulator that works well with the Sega 6-button controller is the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) gamepad. The retro console has games that require players to use 4-button directional pads. Unfortunately, learning the 4-button layout can be difficult. But with the Sega's 6-button pad, arcade-style games can be played easily with gamepads that have more face buttons.
Music Production
There is a video game music tracker called ""Renaissance"" that works well with the Sega 6-button controller. The software allows music producers to create chiptune music in a tracker-style user interface. Music made with Renaissance has a retro video game sound. Using a 6-button controller to input button presses to make music is faster than using a mouse. It is more effective for producing chiptune music.
Homebrew Games
Homebrew games are video games that are self-published through unofficial channels. Typically, they are made as indie projects for retro consoles that don't allow indie game developers to make games for them. The Sega 6-button controller can be used to play homebrew games on the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive console. Some homebrew games can only be played with the 6-button controller.
Accessibility Controllers
Some accessibility controllers have layouts that are similar to the Sega 6-button controller. For example, the ""Elden Ring"" accessibility controller has 6 face buttons like the Sega controller. That makes it easier for players with special needs to remap control sticks and buttons similar to the Sega 6-button pad. So the game becomes easier to play.
When choosing the 6-button Sega controllers for purchase in bulk, it is important to think about the type of games that are mostly played by the customers. The reason Sega prepared the classic gamepads with only 3 buttons and start buttons was that there were gamers who preferred the simple and straightforward controllers for Sports and Puzzle Games. There are still Genesis and Mega Drive game enthusiasts who like to have the retro feel of gamepads, so ordering both Sega controllers for sale will satisfy every kind of gamer.
It is necessary to look for wired and wireless options because some users will like the responsiveness and latency of a wired controller, and they will use it for multiplayer sessions, while others will want the freedom and convenience of a wireless joystick. When ordering the wireless version, make sure to check the battery life of the joystick and the maximum distance from where it can work.
Those who want to use the Sega Genesis controllers with modern consoles and PCs should order controllers with compatible adapters and support for plug-and-play. To get updated features on the 6-button controller, which include turbo mode and multi-platform support, request Bluetooth-enabled controllers.
A controller which provides feedback to the user through vibrations is an excellent option for those who want to have more immersive gaming experiences. Gamers who prefer a textured grip on their controllers while playing games should be targeted for these special Sega controller packs. Always go for durable Sega controllers that are made from sturdy materials and possess long-lasting switches. Before placing an order, it is essential to test the buttons and ensure they have a good response to touch. Moreover, the controllers should have a comfortable layout.
Q1: Did the original Sega Genesis controller have six buttons?
A1: No, the original Sega Genesis controller had three buttons. Later controllers introduced some games to the need for more buttons, and the six-button controller became popular.
Q2: Why would someone use a six-button controller on a Sega Genesis?
A2: The six-button controller allows the player to have more control over the games. It makes it easier to execute moves and gives a better gaming experience, especially in fighting and sports games.
Q3: Can the six-button controller be used on a Sega Genesis/Mega Drive 2?
A3: Yes, the six-button controller can be used on the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive 2. It is fully compatible and will provide the six-button layout for any games that support it.
Q4: Are there games that do not work with the six-button controller?
A4: Most games support the six-button controller. However, some older games may not take advantage of the six buttons, but the controller will still work using the three buttons.