tldr:
- Created mobile game controller that sticks to phones for fresh gaming experience
- Got positive response, founded Mcon, faced challenges
- Improved design with CEO, added features, ready for Kickstarter and CES
Revitalizing Mobile Gaming: The Development of a Phone-Attached Game Controller
The gaming industry, renowned for its rapid evolution, occasionally faces periods where innovation seems stagnant. Such a lull gave rise to the development of a new, portable gaming controller designed to enhance the mobile gaming experience by attaching directly to smartphones.
Prototype Development
Determined to inject new life into mobile gaming, I utilized a 3D printer to create the first prototype of this innovative controller. The design philosophy focused on seamless attachment to smartphones, ensuring an intuitive and enjoyable gaming experience on the go. The initial feedback from online gaming communities was overwhelmingly positive, which laid the groundwork for the establishment of Mcon, a company dedicated to bringing this concept to life.
Collaborations and Challenges
With the foundation of Mcon, we secured investors and formed a partnership with an engineering firm to further refine and produce the controller at scale. However, the journey was not without its challenges. Prototypes encountered technical setbacks, and financial resources became strained, putting the project’s momentum at risk.
Expert Guidance and Design Enhancements
In light of these challenges, I sought guidance from Dale Bakus, the CEO of Osnap, known for his expertise in successful product launches. His insights were instrumental in overcoming obstacles, leading to significant enhancements in the controller’s design:
- Auto-Sliding Mechanism: Facilitates smooth adjustment to fit various smartphone sizes.
- Quick-Launch Buttons: Offers instantaneous access to favorite games.
- Foldout Grips: Provides improved ergonomics for extended use.
- Hall Effect Joysticks: Ensures precise and responsive control.
- Silent Buttons: Reduces noise during gameplay, maintaining a sleek gaming environment.
- Magnetic Adapter Puck: Ensures broad device compatibility, enhancing user convenience.
Emphasizing sustainability, the controller was designed for repairability and customization. It can be easily disassembled using torque screws, allowing users to replace parts or customize their devices according to personal preferences.
Upcoming Launch and Community Engagement
We are poised to launch the controller on Kickstarter in early January, with plans to showcase the refined product at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The support and insights from the gaming community have been invaluable throughout this journey, and we remain open to further feedback and ideas to enhance the controller’s capabilities.
This endeavor has underscored the significance of innovation and collaboration, ultimately transforming gaming into a genuinely portable experience.
