Using a USB controller on PS2?

Tech Talk
1

Is there any way to do that at all??

For most controllers of course, it’s the other way around that’s interesting: more arcade joysticks available for the PS2, a better gamepad selection on the PS2, etc…

But there are exceptions. For flight joysticks, you’re much better off with the PC USB selection. Also, call me crazy, but my favorite (by faaaaaaar) D-pad gamepad ever made is the CH Products Gamepad USB, which was only made for PC, and only for a short time at that*. I would love to use the one I got on the PS2 for games that don’t require analog sticks.

Is there any way to make or find an adapter to use one of these controllers on the PS2? I’ve Googled it like crazy, but as you can imagine, Google only ever finds adapters and conversion discussions for PS2 Controller on USB, not USB controller on PS2.

Thanks in advance for any help.

  • I know it lacks the Saturn pad’s 6-button layout, but the D-pad on the CH is soooo smooth and so precise, I can’t get enough. I’d love to know if I’m the only one who loves this thing so much…
2

Nope, regular USB controllers do not work on the PS2 and I do not know of anyone ever releasing any USB controllers for the system. I know of controllers that used the USB as a power source though, all of my Air-Flow controllers have a USB plug on them to get power to the fans.

3

I wonder how that CH Products Gamepad USB of yours is on the inside.
Maybe you could cut the chips and rewire it to another PCB.
I have done that with several others.

I do have noticed that there are quite some USB controllers out there for the PlayStation 2.
It seems that the software (video-game) needs to support the specific controller to make it work.

The Seaman 2 controller is USB.

The SEGA Typing of the Death keyboard is USB.

Hori Flight Stick 2R is USB.
http://www.hori.jp/products/ps2/controller/fst2_r/index.html
I wonder what is inside that thing to make it work.
PC Flight Sticks are indeed better.

4

^that’s cool. I have never seen those USB controllers. And I never knew Typing of the Dead came out on PS2, I have only ever played it on PC and Dreamcast.

5

Good suggestion. That is what I am going to try next. As for USB controllers, you’re right. They only work with the game for which they are intended. I tried to plug in several USB controllers with random games, and they’re not recognized.