Thinking about building a cab with ps2 pad hacks and console converters

[sharpfork]

So I'm finding myself putting more and more consoles in my cabinets and I'm looking for a way to more easily switch between xBox 1, xBox 360, Wii (gamecube), and maybe Dreamcast.  It seems like doing a pad hack on a Playstation or ps2 controller then using converters to the other consoles makes the most sense.  
Question #1 - are the PS2 -> XXXX console adapters generally good and lag free or would I have to look for very specific versions?  I know that 360 connectors are problematic and the cheepo ones require a wired controller be plugged in for the security stuff.

If this idea is generally workable, I could take care of the easy switching by putting two 9 wire ps controllers thorough a single db25 (serial connector) and use a switch box to point them to the correct console.  I have a 4 port component/ s-video/ composite AV switch that handles the other parts well.

Question #2 has this been done before?  Can you point me to a build example?


I should point out that I even looked into the x arcade solution but it says it will blow up if plugged into more than one console at a time so that is out of the question.  Check out the exploding PS2 pic: http://www.xgaming.com/downloads/5in1.pdf  

Thanks in advance. 

[SNAAKE]

thats how I always had it

there are lag free ps to xbox/xbox360/ps3/dreamcast converters

I got mine from www.etokki.com

[ark_ader]

Actually you will eventually have to go the other way around.  I did the same as you and wanted all my consoles in my cabinet, and it just didn't work.

There has to be separation.  Consoles are one thing, the arcade cabinet another.  Yes it works with emulators, but if you are wanting the real deal you will need a different experience.

I have all my consoles in a converted CD shelf with my 5-1 and 3-1 X-Arcade or console controller.  Hooked up to the projector I can get my game on much faster than having to swap cables, inside a cramped cabinet, plop a disc in etc.

Both the PS2 and DC is the most played on console, but even with its miniature size it has its own operating environment. I must have about 400 games that need access to the disk unit, and unless you create a custom cabinet, access is quite difficult in a traditional arcade cabinet.

Eventually you will find that this solution is the optimum one.

Enjoy the expense of adding more custom controllers while it lasts.   

p.s. I just added the CDi from storage on the spare shelf, worked first time after 10 years or so. 

[sharpfork]

thats how I always had it

there are lag free ps to xbox/xbox360/ps3/dreamcast converters
I got mine from www.etokki.com

Hey Snaake- can you post or PM me a few pics?  I'm not gonna give you a hard time if it isn't all pretty.

[sharpfork]

Actually you will eventually have to go the other way around.  I did the same as you and wanted all my consoles in my cabinet, and it just didn't work.

I'm not sure what you mean.  I'd like to see a few pics of your setup and a bit more explanation when you have time.

I have physical space to put all the consoles in my cabinets and currently have to switch out my CP to hook up to a different pad hack for each.  I have this and physical access working for everything but the dreamcast which I still don't have from my dad.  As far as pluggin into a projector or other TV, I do have the ability to plug a long ass HDMI cable into the 360 that runs through the wall up a floor so I can play games on my living room TV with wireless controllers.  Otherwise, the decease 27" TV in my horizontal cab is perfect for older consoles and arcade ports.

I looked at the xArcade stuff and the warning of dammage on the cover of the 5 in 1 manual seems like I'd have to be carful to only have one console on at a time.  It also looks like I'd have to buy extension cables and be ready to plug/ unplug a few items from the PS2 connector to get something like the 360 working.
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[ark_ader]

I'd like to see a few pics of your setup and a bit more explanation when you have time.

I'm in the process of redecorating but I will click some off when I have it all cleared off.

The X Arcade (which I'm tied to) is a local solution, and has a switch box for everything except for the PS2 which you are right, is required for the 360.  I have two 5-1 for that and a 3-1 for the PS3 and PC all on the switch.

The Weecade project was going to house the DC and PC2 on the back, but now it is just for Xbox and PC.

It all makes sense when I post a picture.  My setup looks like mission control. 

[emphatic]

Putting consoles in a cabinet is great for playing arcade ports and using PS2->console adapters is the best way for sure as just about every console is supported.

Sure changing games might be inconvenient, but to really enjoy a game you need to put more time into it than just 5 minutes then jumping to the next one at first sign of resistance, i.e. "casual play". The less switching between games on a whim, the better, truer arcade experience will be there. Also, less is more. 

I have a 360 in one cabinet and only play arcade ports, but also have a Dreamcast in there. I use a VGA switcher to switch the video feed to the monitor, keep both consoles' audio hooked up at the same time (as only one is on at a time) with a Y-cable and use PS2->DC adapters along with PSX->JAMMA padhacks for DC (and for the odd PSX/2 hookup).

I'm gonna switch out the 360 padhack I'm using now for etokki PS2->360's like suggested by SNAAKE to streamline the console switching even though I very rarely play anything but my 360.

[sharpfork]

less is more. 

I like your attitude.

[csnow]

Does anyone happen to have a list of PS2/PS3 games that work well with arcade controls (excluding fighting games)?

[apfelanni]

i d say all ps1+2 shootemups are worth a try . list here .. http://www.triggerzone.de/gamesdb/index.php


among the maybe 5k playstation 1+2 titles are a lot of arcade games well playable with joystick .