Wii U Pro Controller
this post was submitted on 21 Jun 2025
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Linux Gaming
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It’s a damn good controller too.
The only downside to using one today is that it charges via mini USB. Not USB C like a PS5 controller, or even micro USB like a PS4 controller. It uses mini USB like a PS3 controller.
Yeah, mini USB is a plague.
The good side is mini is far more robust than micro
Was legit my favorite controller at the time
This is the only pad that comes to mind with the sticks in that position.
I may recall a Sega Saturn controller that had two analog sticks at the top, but those things were huge (and very likely no USB model).
Dang, this is definitely the winner. I'm a fan of Nintendo's controllers, but never had a WiiU so didn't realize they were in that configuration. Thanks!
I think it's your best bet.
I am disappointed that this particular Wii U controller lacks motion controls, though. Seems strange for a console that treats them as a primary feature.
iirc, be aware that the triggers(L1/R1) are buttons
Yeah I saw that. Not ideal, but there aren't a ton of games I play that really need that throttle.
I'm in the same boat tbh I really like the layout of the Wii u pro, it ruined me. I just wish it had analog triggers. I opted for an analog keyboard instead, with a racing profile.
Not quite what you're describing, but worth mentioning: You might enjoy the Steam Controller for the same reasons you like right-stick-on-top controllers. It uses track pads instead of sticks. They've been discontinued for years, though, so I don't know how tough it will be to find one.
Someone already mentioned the Wii U Pro Controller, so I'll throw this one in just for fun:
I've never seen one in person, but it looks capable of the layout you're after.
That looks super cool, but unfortunately I can't spare CAD$483 for it :(
I have high hopes for the Steam Controller 2. All it needs to be is a Steam Deck with the middle removed.
Totally. The steam deck controller is top notch
So basically this: https://youtu.be/ycMgIToLav8
Note: I didn't watch it, but it popped up in my feed recently, and was easy enough to find again.
maybe you can find one by HORI or some 3rdp that has good USB compat
Probably not what you're looking for, but you could make one yourself.
Oh dang, I'm actually totally into that. Thanks!
Thrustmaster makes the Eswap controller which are modular. You can change the positions of the sticks and buttons on both sides I believe. I dont know how they work wirh linux though.
https://www.thrustmaster.com/products/eswap-s-pro-controller/
That's a porn name for a company.
Weirdly, it seems like the only non-modular part are the buttons on the right side. You can swap out the right stick for other things (like additional buttons), but you can't put a stick up top. A bit above my price range, but a super cool idea.
My friend had one (maybe an older version) and it wasn't very good quality, kinda felt like crap out the box and broke within a month.
I wish modular controllers caught on as I also never liked the Xbox layout, which has only gotten more common even on 3rd party Playstation pads.
8bitDo 2c Ultimate is pretty great, for very cheap on Amazon. Its a hall effect joystick so its more precise and durable. It has bluetooth and 2.4ghz so generally works in Linux I've found.
8bitdo controllers are great, I have the SN30 Pro. But the 2C Ultimate doesn't have that right joystick in the position I'm looking for.
Just out of curiosity, how do you use it? Like you use your index fingers on the joysticks while your thumbs hit the buttons?
Nope, thumbs on the joysticks and fingers on the triggers, with the thumbs leaving the joysticks if the buttons are needed. Same way I use any other controller, but I find the upper positioning of the joystick to be more comfortable and intuitive for FPS games.