(Work in Progress)
Reviews and Comments
I am extremely grateful to everyone that as ever purchased one of my controllers. I have been lucky enough to recieve some very nice comments over the years along with a few review from a customers.
I would like to use this page to share some of the comments and reviews and if anyone that as bought from me would like to add their comments or a review please let me know and I will add them to this page.
Review of Defender Plus by Adam Brussow
"As a proud member of Generation X, Defender was always the coolest arcade game to me. I recently bought a MiSTer FPGA unit in search of a true retro gaming experience. I don't have room for a full arcade cabinet, so I searched for a usb arcade panel with a button close enough to the left joystick t that could function as the reverse button on Defender. Luckily, I came across Mike's website with his custom built control panels.
Originally, I considered purchasing the mini version but I am 100% satisfied that I went with the Defender Plus full size panel. It has been the perfect solution! It captures the original layout perfectly - responsive joystick, smooth buttons, especially that classic reverse button. I really appreciate the quiet Ultimarc Gold Leaf buttons ... it just feels right! The extra 4/8-way joystick for other games is absolutely worth it. Being able to play a proper game of Pac-Man or Donkey Kong is a welcome bonus. It works well with a MiSTer FPGA. Just define buttons on the MISTer main menu, then, after loading a game core, press one of the Defender panel buttons first if using a gamepad to navigate the menus (so the panel maps controls for player one - figured that out setting up Track & Field), and for Defender, change the control setting to "Cabinet", the define buttons for the core.
Mike obviously puts care into his work and it shows. He is timely to respond to emails, shipping was quick and included tracking.
So, if you're into retro gaming but short on space, this will transport you right back to your childhood arcade!"
Review of my 4 way controller by Jon Stoodley
In the lead up to my perfect Pac Man attempt at the NERG event in Gateshead, I needed a decent joystick so I could have some practice time as my arcade cab is with the event organisers. A friend of mine suggested that I should see the joysticks that Mike makes here in the UK. I've played Pac Man since 1981, with a 20 year gap in between. I'm currently attempting the perfect game of Pac Man, something only half a dozen guys have achieved in 35 years since the game was introduced. Needless to say, I'm very picky when it comes to the quality and operation of the joystick that I use. These units are exceptional considering the price! They feel solid and well made, and the operation of the microswitches on both the joystick and buttons are spot on. There's even some rubber suckers on the base of the box so you can anchor it down on a smooth surface. Nice little touch! All in all, I'm very impressed with this custom joystick. From the build quality, price and functionality, you'd be hard pressed to find something better. What's more, Mike does more joysticks to suit the other classics like Defender. Amazing stuff and highly recommended!
Jon Stoodley
Perfect Pac Man contender. UK.
Current score - 3,333,270 Blackpool 2014
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Review of my Original Defender Controller by Shawn M.
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I own an earlier version of Mr. Hanson’s Defender/Stargate controller. If you have ever enjoyed either of the aforementioned games from way back in the early eighties, you know from experience that the buttons/joystick take a real beating during gameplay. The controller has stood the test of time, though, because I am into my third year with it, averaging at least 1 – 2 games a week, and it works as well now as it did on the day I received it. Quality hardware and a solid build. Also, I have used the controller in multiple OS environments… Windows 7, 10 and 11, with no issues at all. I’ll be purchasing the full-size Defender/Stargate controller in the future, without hesitation.
Shawn M.
USA