Rotary & Optical Joysticks

[Visitor Q]

http://www.happ.com/joysticks/rotary_optical_joy.htm

Are joysticks like this supported in Mame and if so, what one is prefered?

I would really look to play games like IKARI warrior etc...

Thanks.

[Paul Olson]

Do a search for rotary joystick; there have been a few good threads talking about this lately. Ikari Warriors used a mechanical rotary, so you would most likely prefer one of those for that game. You will need an encoder that can handle that type of stick. Both Ultimarc and GGG carry them. The optical rotaries (I am pretty sure) hook up like a spinner. For either, you still need to hook the joystick microswitches to an encoder as well.

If you are going to order either of these, check the BST forum. Some of our members sell them cheaper than Happ.

[Visitor Q]

For a few games, is it more trouble than its worth?

[Paul Olson]

It really depends how much you like the few games. If you are not making a modular or swappable panel, I would say no. Those probably are not the best general purpose sticks to use.

[Visitor Q]

Nah... I was going with two 360 sticks for player one and two. Now I have a free spot on my CP where the 4 way would have went so I am trying to decide on a rotary, top fire button or flight stick.

What do you think would get used most or be able to play the most games?

[Turnarcades]

I'm curious; as most sticks rotate in their housing to some extent, would it be possible to put a rotary sensor on the bottom (like a hacked mouse) and use them like that? Some sticks have a generous amount of stick protruding past the switches underneath, so would it be possible?

[Bluedeath]

Actually has been done already, google DIY rotary joystick