This project was successfully funded on October 16th, 2024 with 1,780 backers.
The kickstarter page can be found here
Introducing the GC Ultimate
My name is Mitch, and I have been working at Hand Held Legend for the last 3 years. Since I joined the HHL team, I have developed the ProGCC line of competitive controller conversion kits. These kits are used by top players world wide and renowned for their analog stick accuracy as well as compatibility with GameCube.
This Emerald Blue color is the base option. If we reach stretch goals to unlock more color options, we will send out backer surveys after the campaign ends to allow each backer to select a color.
Development History
GC Ultimate runs on a controller firmware we call Hoja. This firmware is designed to work on the Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040), and I've designed it to be versatile and give competitive and casual players a high degree of customization and usability across many playstyles. We've recently expanded this functionality to include Bluetooth support by integrating an ESP32 microcontroller.
It's been our goal to produce an entirely original controller which combines everything we've learned. We are nearing the finish line and it's time to open this project to everyone.
Production Ready
Everything you see here is production ready. We've tested the board, firmware, 3d shell, injection molded buttons, etc... We only need the appropriate funds to move forward with production.
This design process has spanned a little over two years. We developed a competitive option for Smash players which is known as the ProGCC, a drop-in conversion kit for the Pro Controller. This kit reduces input latency and offers an edge in tournaments to players who need more out of their gear.
We've taken everything we've learned and implemented it into a GameCube style form-factor. This controller is absolutely jam-packed with features and we can't wait to get it into your hands.
Note that these are all features which are working now, not features that are promised for further down the line. Everything you see exists and is functional now.
Why GC Ultimate Stands Out
Input Accuracy
The latest Gulikit TMR technology is included to provide you with high-precision joysticks that never drift because of a pesky bit of dust.
Snapback filtering is built in to our software, ensuring you never have a misinput.
Our non-proprietary and totally open-source Split-D-pad design is yours to enjoy. We include this with every kit. Never fight your D-pad again. Platformers feel incredible with this design.
Our hardware features dual IMU. This reduces noise for increased accuracy with motion controls.
Hardware Customization
Our swappable gateplate allows you to create your perfect controller. Octagon and round shapes are included with each kit.
Modern Connectivity
Simple-Yet-Powerful Configuration App
Our Configuration app is programmed using WebUSB. This app works offline on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android devices.
Calibrate your sticks, remap buttons, and more.
Made For Retro-Enthusiasts
Compatible with N64, GameCube, SNES, and NES with appropriate passthrough cables.
Comprehensive Features
- 1:1 footprint with the original GameCube controller
- Open source firmware and 3D models (Available on GitHub)
- Compatible with OEM triggers and buttons
- Hall effect joysticks (Gulikit TMR with stick-click buttons)
- HD Rumble (The best in its class for aftermarket controllers)
- Bluetooth support (Switch/PC/Android)
- Configuration app (Android/PC/Mac/Linux)
- RGB stick underlighting
- Split D-pad design
- Dual motion control sensors for improved gyro accuracy (Switch/Steam supported)
- Dual Z buttons
- Built-in support for mechanical triggers OR analog triggers (for all of you Melee and Sunshine enthusiasts)
- Swappable gate-plate (Octagon and Circular included)
- USB-C connectivity and recharging
- Support for NES, SNES, N64, and GameCube
- XInput support for PC/Android (1000hz input rate)
- Native Slippi support (1000hz input rate)
- Ergonomic trigger shape
- Injection Molded buttons
- 100gf tactile Z buttons
Included With Each Kit
- Injection Molded Shell (Emerald Blue is the default)
- Peripheral buttons (Light Gray Color)
- Trigger bracket
- Screw and spring hardware kit
- Ergonomic triggers and dual Z buttons (Light Gray Color)
- Analog stick caps (Light Gray Rubber Color)
- One Main Stick
- One C-Stick
- Button set (Bald ABXY)
- Split D-pad set
- Li-Po battery
- Main PCB
- C-Stick PCB
- T6 screwdriver
- T8 screwdriver
Stretch Goals
$212,000 - Base Goal - This is the minimum required to fulfill the base kits to every backer. This will also allow us to complete required FCC certification for wireless functionality.
$250,000 - Flame Red Colorway
$300,000 - Spice Orange Colorway
$350,000 - Indigo Colorway
$400,000 - Platinum Colorway
$450,000 - Symphonic Green (Color Swatch used for example)
Risks and challenges
If the demand is too high, we may need to batch out production, leading to delays for the latter end of backers. We have already performed a production run of 100 prototype units to examine the process for an earlier version of this kit. Our software has been thoroughly tested by thousands of gamers to ensure a bug-free experience on a competitive level.
Learn about accountability on KickstarterEnvironmental commitments
Visit our Environmental Resources Center to learn how Kickstarter encourages sustainable practices.Long-lasting design
Parts are designed to be open-source and repaired. If something on the controller needs repair or maintenance, we provide all of the documentation required for anyone to repair and re-use this controller!