Classics CP layout feedback request

[Dervacumen]

I've only got 23.75" side to side to work with here, so although I wanted to have my buttons in a straight row or a gentle arc, it just wasn't going to happen.  My question is, is it worthwhile to add a fourth button under buttons 4 - 5 and 8-9?  It's simple enough to do, but will I get much more mileage?  I guess it could be cool for vanguard.  My worry is that the CP is already pretty tight.

The top left joystick is a 4 way, the other two are 8 way.

Actually, any suggestions are welcome.

Thanks,
Derv

[JonnyBoy]

That's a tough one...

I would move the top button down just a tad bit on each side to reduce the arc a tad.

I don't know about a fourth button. Have you tried laying it out on cardboard?

[MinerAl]

If you rotate 2 and 3 90^o you'll gain some space to spread out your buttons a bit.

I have a similar situation on one control panel, and I find the 4-in-a-diamond button pattern very natural and useful.  We're pretty much all used to the arrow keys on a computer keyboard anyway, so that arrangement is familiar.

[JonnyBoy]

Yeah, I didn't even think about how the arrow keys on a keyboard are oriented.

Are you planning on putting start buttons?

[Dervacumen]

These are all good points.  I did intend to rotate the joysticks to squeeze a tad more room, and even thought of decreasing from 3/4" to 1/2" the wood for the sides and back...every bit will help.  I have not mocked this exact config up in cardboard, but will do so this evening once.
I think I'll put in the 4th button in diamond config.

I have a separate panel under the monitor that holds the P1, P2, Start, Pause, and Exit buttons.  The reason is this panel will be swappable with others I intend to build later.

Most Excellent!