Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum
Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: dmish82 on August 24, 2004, 05:26:46 pm
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Hi,
I still have a bit of confusion as to which joysticks are typically used in which games. I know that there is a big personal preference involved, but generally which type of games typically use leaf switch joysticks and which games typically use micro switch? I generally play side scrolling action games like X-Men, Ninja Turtles, Captain America & the Avengers and so forth and I want to pick a joystick that would work best for these games. I would play some fighting games also, but primarily the side scrollers. Also, what would be the difference that I would notice if I chose a leaf-switch VS a micro for these types of games? I'm not quite sure what is meant when the words "throw" and "reach" are used. Any input would be greatly appreciated. THANKS!!!!
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Throw is just the distance from center that you have to move the joystick in order to activate a switch.
As far as performance goes, both microswitch joysticks and leaf switch joysticks should perform equally (or at least they will both get the job done). Some folks prefer the leaf switches because they were more common in the 70s and early 80s, and they don't make a clicking noise when a switch is activated. They do have to be adjusted every now and again, but it's easy to do. Microswitch joysticks (Happ Supers) are what I use, and they have proven to be quite durable and work very well.
I believe the games you mentioned mostly used microswitch joys because those are newer games.
I'm sure someone like PaigeOliver can chime in with even more info. Best of luck to you. :)
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The biggest difference between leaf joys and micros is that you can feel the corners on most micro sticks.
Wico 8-ways have a round actuator on the bottom that contacts the long leaf springs; and, more importantly, a round guide hole inside the stick base.
This produces a completely round feel to the stick, where you can't feel yourself going from one switch only to two switches in the "corner" of the stick.
If you move the stick in circles on them, it feels like it is going in a circle.
Most micros use a square actuator, and most of those that don't still have a squarish guide hole on them, so you can feel the corner on the stick.
If you move the stick in circles on these, it feels like it is tracing a square.
Some games require that you be able to quickly hit the diagonal to pull off moves, other require that you "sweep" a range from say up-up right-right to pull off the move.
For games that you NEED to feel the corners on, the micros are probably the better choice.
For games that you need sweeping moves, the leafs will probably work better for you.
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Or, there's the Perfect 360, which feels round like the leaf sticks, but has no leaves to adjust/wear, as they use optical switches instead. Plus, they're still making them. :) Pricey, though. :'(