Our site is packed with Raspberry Pi tutorials. From portable systems to media centers and scientific calculators, the popular mini-computer has proven extremely flexible. However, there is also the possibility to enjoy a Raspberry Pi as an arcade platform without soldering or connecting internal wires. The Spanish company Talentec offers its RasPi Arcade Stick via Kickstarter, a solution that is "almost" plug-and-play and looks great.
If you already have access to a Raspberry Pi and still don't know what to do with it, the first entry on the list is retro-emulation. Gamepad, HDMI cable, power supply, the appropriate software, and that's all to get started. Then you can include a case, enable support for official controllers from other consoles, and more.
I admit you'll learn a lot that way, but here at NeoTeo we can't rule out "the other option": That you want to enjoy a Raspberry Pi while minimizing the "do-it-yourself" factor. That brings us to Talentec and its RasPi Arcade Stick.
Enjoy the Raspberry Pi with the RasPi Arcade Stick
At first glance, the RasPi Arcade Stick looks like many other arcade controllers on the market, but it already includes a Raspberry Pi 3 B+ in its configuration, a sort of "ready-to-wear hardware" if you'll allow the expression. Classic joystick with its irresistible red ball, eight buttons plus another two for Select and Start, WiFi, Bluetooth, USB input and output, HDMI, microSD slot, three available designs, several customization options (from the color of the controls to the stickers), and the inclusion of Sanwa components in the Pro version define this project.
Another very interesting aspect is the "daisy chain" support with the Talentec Arcade Stick controller. What is that? The standard version of the control without the Raspberry Pi, which can be used on PC, Raspberry Pi, PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 in legacy mode. The idea here is to connect the Talentec to the RasPi, and thus extend the platform for two players. The only DIY element on the RasPi Arcade Stick is that you'll need to handle the software installation and ROMs (the hardware supports multiple environments), but if you're looking for a reference, our RetroPie guide will be very useful
The RasPi Arcade Stick and its younger brother are in the middle of a crowdfunding campaign. There are still 15 days left, and they have already received half of the necessary funds. Prices range from 59 euros for the Talentec Arcade Stick, and 159 euros for the RasPi Arcade Stick Pro with Sanwa components. Want both at once? There's a very attractive option for 178 euros. First deliveries from July.
Official site: Click here
