Valve tried trackballs with the Steam Controller but ditched them for trackpads that emulate trackball physics. They found small ones felt bad but big ones were too bulky and heavy. Clearly they like that idea, since every controller-like thing they’ve designed since includes pads.
In a stationary device like a desktop trackball or an arcade cabinet, they settle but a handheld device is moving very slightly while being held and more vigorously when picked up/put down, which can move the ball. Trackpads won’t do that.
ATARI is just a brand name at this point, trying to feed off of people’s nostalgia. There’s nothing left of the company that made this stuff in the 80s.
Despite including a numpad like the Intellivision controller, the GameStation Go doesn’t currently include any games from Atari’s recently purchased Intellivision library. But [YouTube reviewer who was hands-on at CES] GenXGrownUp says including those titles—alongside Atari Lynx and Jaguar games—is not “off the table yet” for the final release.
I only know of the Atari Lynx from reading about the history of Chip’s Challenge but I’d be interested in seeing that.
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I wish trackballs were utilized more. Near-mouse levels of accuracy at the thumb over a joystick is great.
Valve tried trackballs with the Steam Controller but ditched them for trackpads that emulate trackball physics. They found small ones felt bad but big ones were too bulky and heavy. Clearly they like that idea, since every controller-like thing they’ve designed since includes pads.
Also they can spin on their own in a handheld-
In a stationary device like a desktop trackball or an arcade cabinet, they settle but a handheld device is moving very slightly while being held and more vigorously when picked up/put down, which can move the ball. Trackpads won’t do that.
One of the top Deadlock players uses a trackball. We all stan our ergonomic king.
I’ve got a nice wireless optical one; absolutely love it.
Yep, I’m a thumb trackball guy. Love them.
ATARI is just a brand name at this point, trying to feed off of people’s nostalgia. There’s nothing left of the company that made this stuff in the 80s.
The spinner is pretty vital for a lot of old Atari content. Pong/Breakout/Warlords with a joystick is super hard.
I only know of the Atari Lynx from reading about the history of Chip’s Challenge but I’d be interested in seeing that.
There’s a bar in my town whose gimmick is all their original arcade and pinball machines. Including Missile Command. God that game is stressful.
as it should! long live spinners and paddles!