Affordable Kids Toy Used to Create Functional Arcade Controller by Modder

Modder Dr. Thomas Tilley has repurposed a used toy from a thrift store, turning it into a fully functional arcade controller.

Upon first glance, the controller maintains the appearance of any other children’s toy that one might come across at a nearby store.

Despite the Paw Patrol-branded stickers covering the plastic steering wheel, the controller is fully functional and capable of playing the arcade classic Super Hang-On.

Dr. Thomas Tilley was responsible for the impressive engineering feat of integrating a Raspberry Pi mini computer with a plastic toy, transforming it into a highly advanced device.

The “Super Paw Patrol Hang-On”controller comes equipped with functioning brake, throttle, and start buttons, as well as fully operational steering, mirroring the controls of the actual Super Hang-On arcade game.

Image, provided by Thomas Tilley, of the inside of the Paw Patrol modded arcade controller. — Thomas Tilley

Nevertheless, upon arriving home, Dr. Tilley discovered that the toy was still functioning properly.

The individual shared that in order to be able to switch between playing the game and using the toy’s original functions, they added a socket and connector to the ribbon cable that connected the necessary buttons for accelerating and braking. This allowed them to easily unplug the buttons when playing the game and then reconnect them for the toy’s original features.

Despite the challenges, Dr. Tilley was able to preserve the toy functions of the steering wheels, but setting them up proved to be a more complicated task.

After locating a gap beneath the steering wheel, he inserted a miniature 3D-printed component. This component was responsible for controlling the movement of an analog joystick, similar to those found in older video game controllers, which would adjust the toy’s motorbike-style handles when turned left or right.

To complete the custom controller project, Dr. Tilley connected the buttons and joystick to a single-board computer using wiring.

The modder programmed it in a way that, when connected via USB, it would give the appearance of a simple joystick.

The controller can be transformed back to its original toy form by disconnecting the buttons and removing the Raspberry Pi Pico, showcasing a final burst of ingenuity.

Controller modder extraordinaire

Dr. Tilley is experienced in creating unique and innovative controllers.

The skilled modder has constructed a personalized controller for Super Monkey Ball, featuring a fully movable AiAi character from the beloved game franchise.

The modder and computer scientist has become well-known for his achievement of creating the largest playable Game & Watch handheld in October 2017, earning him a spot in the Guinness Book of Records.

Image, provided by Thomas Tilley, of the Paw Patrol modded arcade controller. — Thomas Tilley

Unfortunately, Dr. Tilley does not have the ‘Super Paw Patrol Hang-On’ controller available for purchase if you were interested in buying it for yourself.

Despite his previous statement, he has now informed us that the controller has been returned to a different op-shop. This means that a fortunate Paw Patrol enthusiast will probably receive a pleasant surprise in the form of a large arcade-sized controller.