DIY Nintendo Switch Fight Stick: Overcoming Challenges and a New Direction

In my last video, I introduced a project where I set out to build a Nintendo Switch fight stick using an ESP32 controller. My goal was to replace the standard controls with arcade-style buttons and a joystick. If you haven’t seen the video, check it out.

The original plan was to use software called “HOJA” to flash the ESP32 controller, allowing it to interface with the Nintendo Switch. This setup seemed promising during my initial tests on a breadboard, with all the buttons working. However, when I moved to actual use, I encountered a major issue—the dreaded “turbo” mode.

The Turbo Button Issue

For those unfamiliar, a turbo button causes the button to act as if it’s repeatedly being pressed and released, even when you’re just holding it down. This obviously wasn’t ideal for a fight stick, where precise, deliberate inputs are key. With this problem in mind, I decided to change my approach.

A Simple but Effective Solution

I thought about sourcing a regular controller locally and soldering onto its internal buttons instead of continuing to troubleshoot the ESP32 setup. Luckily, I found a great solution at a local store called Mighty Ape. They were selling a basic controller for just $15. I figured at worst, I’d have a decent controller to play with, and at best, I could use it for my fight stick project.

Once I got the controller and disassembled it, I was pleasantly surprised. The circuit board had test points for each button, making it incredibly easy to solder wires directly to them and connect them to my arcade controls.

A $15 Win

For just $15, I got a full controller that had everything I needed—buttons, analog sticks, a capture button, audio output, and even a battery. The controller also had LEDs to indicate player number, which was a nice touch. Compared to the ESP32 controller (which cost $19), this solution was not only cheaper but much simpler to implement.

The only downside was that I didn’t buy more than one, and now they’re sold out. It’s a white-label controller, so I’ll likely need to hunt for more on eBay or AliExpress, where they go for around $23. Despite the slight price increase, this is still an incredible deal for the functionality it offers.

Building the Fight Stick

To make the project more modular, I built a breakout box. This box houses the entire controller and provides screw terminals for easy connection to the arcade buttons. It’s a bit bulky, so it wouldn’t be suitable for a handheld controller, but for a fight stick with plenty of space, it works perfectly.

I broke out all the necessary buttons: the joystick, left and right triggers, select and start, and the basic face buttons. Since this setup is meant for games like Mortal Kombat, where you don’t need analog sticks, I focused on mapping out the most important digital inputs.

The board fits neatly in the back, and I left room for USB-C charging. I’ve also designed the layout so that the USB port is easily accessible for recharging the battery.

Personalizing the Design

To give the fight stick a more authentic arcade feel, I downloaded some artwork from the internet and had it printed at a local stationery shop. I plan to apply this artwork to the top panel and protect it with a layer of acrylic. This will help the fight stick resemble a classic arcade machine while keeping the artwork safe from wear and tear.

What’s Next?

The only things left are the final assembly steps: securing the artwork, adding acrylic for protection, and cutting a hole for the USB charging cable. I haven’t decided whether to complete a full build video for this project, as the initial response to my last one wasn’t great. But I’ll see how things go—maybe I’ll release a shorter video highlighting the key aspects.

Thank you for watching and following along with this project. Stay tuned for updates, and I hope this inspires your own DIY Nintendo Switch controller builds!