Turn Your Phone Into a Game Boy With a Pocket Taco
â–Ľ Summary
– The GameSir Pocket Taco is a $35 controller that attaches to a smartphone, turning it into a Game Boy-inspired handheld ideal for retro games without thumbsticks.
– It uses a hinged mechanism that clamps onto the bottom half of a phone, with silicone pads for a secure, non-damaging grip that works even with bulky cases.
– A key design flaw is that its front panel only opens about 45 degrees, blocking the lower screen and requiring removal for full phone access, unlike 8BitDo’s upcoming FlipPad.
– It connects via Bluetooth with its own rechargeable battery, can power on/off automatically with the phone, and also functions as a standalone wireless controller.
– The controller is best suited for 16-bit and earlier retro games, as it lacks thumbsticks, and users may need to adjust app layouts to avoid screen blockage.
For retro gaming enthusiasts, the GameSir Pocket Taco offers a clever and affordable way to transform a modern smartphone into a classic handheld console. This uniquely named controller provides a nostalgic Game Boy-inspired experience without breaking the bank, focusing on simplicity and comfort for playing older titles.
The design is straightforward. Instead of using magnets or a split design, the Pocket Taco employs a hinged clamp that securely grips the lower portion of your phone. Soft silicone pads inside ensure a firm hold that won’t scratch your device, even if it’s in a bulky case. The grip feels reassuringly solid; while my iPhone had a slight wiggle room, it never felt like it was in danger of slipping out. The hinge opens wide enough to accommodate larger devices like an iPad Mini, though the ergonomics for such a setup remain untested.
A notable design choice becomes apparent during use. The controller’s front panel only hinges out about 45 degrees, which unfortunately blocks the lower section of the phone’s screen. This means you’ll need to detach the Pocket Taco to switch apps or even unlock your device. This limitation highlights the appeal of a competing product, the 8BitDo FlipPad, which features a panel that flips down completely for full screen access. A passthrough charging port on the bottom allows for power cables, provided your phone’s port is centered. It comes with a hard case, but the controller’s thickness makes it less than ideal for actual pockets.
Connectivity is handled via Bluetooth, and the built-in 600mAh battery means it won’t drain your phone’s power. It turns on automatically when opened and pairs quickly with the last connected device. While GameSir officially lists only Android support, it connected seamlessly to my iPhone, which recognized it as a DualShock 4 controller. It also functions as a standalone wireless gamepad, easily pairing with other devices like a Nintendo Switch.
The controls are where the nostalgia truly shines. The four face buttons and D-pad deliver a satisfying, clicky feel reminiscent of the original Game Boy. Two sets of shoulder buttons on the back are easily accessible, and the rounded edges prevent discomfort during long play sessions. Despite being narrower than an actual Game Boy, it remained comfortable even for my larger hands.
There are some important considerations for gameplay. The Pocket Taco deliberately omits thumbsticks, making it best suited for 16-bit era and earlier retro games that don’t require dual-stick camera control. When attached, the controller will obscure part of the screen, so you’ll need to use apps or emulators that allow you to reposition the game display toward the top. During my tests with Delta and RetroArch emulators on iOS, I had to adjust the layout to prevent the game from being covered. Remember, this controller is designed for vertical orientation only.
With a price point of just $35, the GameSir Pocket Taco delivers excellent value. It offers quality controls, reliable ergonomics, broad device compatibility, and the versatility of a standalone Bluetooth gamepad. While the screen access limitation is a drawback, it remains a compelling and fun accessory for anyone looking to revisit classic games on their phone.
(Source: The Verge)
