FunFortress SLM-B5/IMPACTX Hitbox Overview/Review

 

Recently I've gotten my hands on the FunFortress SLM-B5 stickless controller (aka IMPACTX Hitbox). There is a lot of good to this controller, but one big flaw that actually might not be that much of an issue. This post is somewhat of a review, but mostly an overview.

Purchasing, Shipping Speed etc 

First thing is that I am not associated with the makers/sellers of this controller. If you have an issue with the order please message them and not me because I won't be much help. This controller can be found on AliExpress and Taobao. Hearing those two stores might put some fear into some, which I can understand. However from my experience you'll get the item albeit it'll take some time. This controller is actually made by MOSICX on Taobao and being resold by FunFortress (aka SQARCADE) on AliExpress. Basically think FunFortress more as a forwarder, you order the item from him, he'll order it from Taobao, he'll receive the item, test it for any issues and then ship it off to you. This process took around 22 days. 15 days was for the item to actually ship and then another 7 days to go from China to the USA. Shipping speeds may be different in the future (i.e he buys a bunch and keeps them in stock), but this is from what I experienced. There is an extra Gateron Red low profile switch (KS-33), button cap (24mm), and a USB-C to USB-A cable.

>If this is made by MOSICX then why is the title FunFortress SLM-B5?

Mainly so it's easier to search on google.

EDIT (10/07/2023)

There is a new version of this controller that has keyboard like layout (mix box) rather than the standard stickless layout. While there are some differences between that controller and the one I did an overview on, it should be pretty minor and the information in this overview should work with that controller too.

Specs

Measurements: 15cm x 22cm (6in x 8.7in) 

Thickness: 1.4cm (0.55in)

PCB: Raspberry Pi Pico w/ GP2040-CE firmware (v0.7.0)

Console Comparability: PC (X-Input/D-Input), Nintendo Switch, PS3, PS4 (Native)

Weight: Light (I don't have an exact number)

Material: Stacked acrylic with the top panel being a clear glossy panel and the bottom panel being in a matte finish.

USB-C

SLM-B5 Firmware

The nice thing about the SLM-B5 is the usage of readily available GP2040-CE firmware. You'd be surprised on how many of these AliExpress slim stickless controllers try to get creative and use their own version. The version this one uses is the "GP2040-CE_0.7.0_Pico.uf2 " (the big PS4 update). This is outdated, however if you do not have the files to make the PS4 functionality work then I don't recommend updating the firmware. As the stock firmware will work on PS4 with no timeout. I did a test with Dead Cells and Street Fighter V and the controller did not disconnect after 8 minutes (look up PS4 8 min timeout for more info). If you don't care for PS4 functionality or have the files needed then I do recommend upgrading to the latest firmware.

SLM-B5 Switch Compatibility

While there are hotswaps in this controller, the switch compatibility for the SLM-B5 is pretty limited. Mainly due to low profile switches not having the same standard as regular size MX switches (i.e pins being located in different positions). The list below is what you'll be able to use. The stock switches in the SLM-B5 are Gateron Red KS-33 Low Profile. 

Linear
Gateron Red Low Profile (KS-27/KS-33)
NuPhy Daisy Low Profile
NuPhy Aloe Low Profile

Tactical
Gateron Brown Low Profile (KS-27/KS-33)
Gateron Banana Low Profile (KS-33)
NuPhy Wisteria Low Profile 

Clicky
Gateron Blue Low Profile (KS-27/KS-33)

There is a steep $38 price tag (since you have to buy 100) for NuPhy's switches so unless you are very curious about them then I'd just stick with Gateron. I'll update this section if I ever get around to buying some NuPhy switches and think they're worth upgrading to. Looking at a couple listings for Gateron low profile switches I see that there is a "Silver" switch too. However I've never been able to order one of these switches, so I'm not sure if they released or not.

Button Cap Compatibility

The stock button caps are actually pretty good, I'd only recommend changing them if you want a different look or color. 

Punk Workshop button caps work well. They don't fully fit the circle, but it is close. You'll need 11 24mm and 1 30mm. 

And that is about it. GamerFinger's button caps are too long to fit and pretty much every other option only supports choc type switches. 3D printing your own could be an option too, but like I said before I do like the stock button caps quite a bit and hope the creator makes more color options for them. Of course you could try to dye them to a different color yourself, but you do run into the risk of ruining them.

  
>What about the top row?
All I know is that keycaps for regular sized MX switches won't work. They're too big. You'll need to get a keycap set that is meant for low profile switches. I don't have any recommendations at the the moment.

Screw Size etc

The stacked plexi is being held by size M3 Allen flathead screws. I don't know the exact length, it should be around 12mm. Flathead or countersunk should work well. The nut size is also M3, slimmer size. 2mm Allen Key to screw and unscrew the screws. 

Changing the option panel layout

In my opinion the option panel layout is a bit odd. It goes Home, Share, Turbo, Option, L3, R3. Personally I recommend changing Turbo to Option and moving L3 to Option, R3 to L3, and Turbo to R3. As well as turning the pin for Turbo into Touch Pad. If that sounds confusing then don't worry I have a screenshot of this change. Just change it in the Web config. 

 

(Note the screenshot is of the 0.7.3 firmware. The firmware that comes with the controller is 0.7.0. Not much of a difference, but if there is any confusion then that is why).  

So the new layout will be Home, Share, Option, L3, R3, Touch Pad. If you do plan on using Turbo then you don't need to change it to Touch Pad (or maybe even change out the layout at all).  

Artwork

The SLM-B5 does support custom artwork. There is kind of a template, but nothing that is "1:1" as of yet. Just know that the dimensions of the SLM-B5 are "15cm x 22cm". You can fit that in a 8x10 print, which is a size that isn't too expensive to print at a printing store. Cutting the artwork can be a bit tricky. All I can recommend is cutting it to size of the top plexi then using a pen to trace where the holes and squares need to be cut. As I said before the size isn't too expensive to print so be sure to get multiple as a safety net.

RGB Light

Just disable it, here is how to on the Web config. 

It is laughably bad, only helps with knowing if the controller is on or off, that's about it.  

Conclusion

Overall, I do like this controller quite a bit. I would recommend it. Even if you don't decide to do the minor adjustments I listed above then completely stock it is still solid. Really the biggest downside to this controller is the limited amount of keyboard switches you can use. However if you really don't care for that or the Gateron Reds are the best option for you then this downside isn't an issue. 

- globe

 

RGB MX Arcade Buttons Parts List

Finished Results -  https://www.instagram.com/p/CbA73Degs8C/

Here's the parts list and the written guide for these cool RGB MX buttons. 

Guide (By Daora) -  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qY4HESYdRyFT8OaB5leyHsWm4kfqoA74zqSLAdihuvo/edit

Parts

Brook Board (or really any PCB board if you know how to separate the two connections and how to give 5v and ground)

MX Buttons from AliExpress - https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003346456501.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.0.0.21ef1802u7NKlv

Raspberry Pi Pico - https://www.adafruit.com/product/4883

Adafruit NeoKey Socket Breakout - https://www.adafruit.com/product/4978

Cherry MX styled key switches (any will work, personally went with Gateron Yellows) 

PCB breadboard (this is to help solder the headers on the PCB boards)

Soldering Iron, solder, flux (you don't need an expensive one)

Jumper Cables Female to Female - https://www.amazon.com/40pcs-Female-2-54mm-Jumper-2x40pcs/dp/B00GSE2S98

That is about it in parts you'll need. Follow the guide linked above and it should come to working order. The only adjustment you'll need to make is for the MX buttons, you'll have to trim two of the sides since the PCB doesn't sit flush after you solder the headers to them. A rotary tool is recommend, but you can find other ways to trim it. 

Mad Catz Announced the TE3! Analysis before more info comes out.

Source: https://www.4gamer.net/games/097/G009735/20220107046/ 

Google Translate

"The new arcade stick "T.E. 3 Fightstick" is a product bearing the name of "Tournament Edition" used in the old Mad Catz arcade stick. Compatible with PC, PlayStation 5/4, and Xbox series. The buttons are made by Sanwa Denshi, which has a reputation for high durability. A shoulder strap can be attached, making it easy to carry."

Source: https://www.madcatz.com/en/News/Detail/25

"Finally, Mad Catz is proud to introduce the T.E. 3: the latest model in our celebrated Tournament Edition fight stick series. Portability and convenience are enhanced on the T.E. 3 with shoulder strap attachments and convenient in-unit storage. The classic Sanwa Denshi buttons deliver an authentic arcade experience with the legendary quality and durability of Sanwa components. T.E. 3 supports multi-platform connectivity including Xbox, PlayStation 4 & 5 over bridge, and PC. More macros, two turbo modes, PlayStation touchpad, and share buttons make the T.E. 3 better integrated with consoles for an upgraded arcade experience. For gamers who want to take their fight to the next level, the T.E. 3 delivers a knockout."

Analysis

Round 2 comes around for the new Mad Catz company, this time they've announced the next entry for the Tournament Edition line up being the TE3. We aren't given a lot info about this stick for now besides the information provided above and the one photo. So what info can we get out of this? Well actually quite a bit however it'll be all speculated and can't be confirmed until more info is released. 

First question to ask, "Is this another rebranded stick like the Mad Catz E.G.O?", and the answer to that is maybe? Doing a bit a searching on Alibaba, AliExpress, and some on TaoBao, I couldn't find a stick design similar to this one. So while I couldn't find any that doesn't 100% mean that it doesn't come from a generic design that any brand can license. There is a chance someone better at searching can find something, but for now it does seem to be an original design. Which is a good and bad thing. It's good that the current Mad Catz team is at least trying to make their own design rather than licensing one that is already pre made. Now the bad, the design isn't great. 

My main issues with the design is the top and bottom area. The bottom area doesn't need that piece sticking out, there's really no reason to have that. The control panel area is pretty ugly and the angles don't make it much better. This case is looking to be pretty chonky all things consider. The next criticism is a double edge sword, but it is pretty sad to see that there's no area for a different bezel or side panels. Those two parts being changeable is what the TE family is known for and unfortunately it does seem to be taken out with this stick. Now this can be a good thing since bezel and side panels will eventually stop being made and when that happens the prices for them on the used market will skyrocket. TE2/TE2+ is the best example for that.

Is there anything else that is good? Yes there is, while I did complain that the control panel area is pretty ugly, it does at least comes with a lot of options. The layout is Vewlix, but it is an extended Vewlix layout. Which is nice, I know some people main issue with the Vewlix layout is that everything is cramped so having the joystick a little bit away is actually nice. With a wide case there is a chance to have different layouts made for this stick. This will most likely be able to support custom artwork. The TE3 logo does look nice, but having "Arcade Stick" rather than "Fightstick" does show that Mad Catz is a different company now a days. There is also an area to put a strap so you can carry the stick on your side for example. The TE2 also did this. 

Sadly it was confirmed on Mad Catz website that the PCB is one of those """universal""" ones. Where you would have to plug in a controller in order for it to work on the PS4/PS5 and Xbox series. This is pretty disappointing, but not surprising. As for price I think this will be roughly around $200. Personally I wouldn't purchase it at that price, but if it's ever on sale for $150 or less then I might consider it.

Artwork Potential 

Since I do a little of graphic design (and if you're looking for some work done check out my service) I do have to look at the artwork potential this stick can offer. While the case has all the funky angles, the area for the artwork to be applied does look to just be a regular rectangle. Which is good! It's nice that the control panel doesn't interfere with the artwork. Also the case having a general black design it'll be easy to have any theme. The joystick placing does make the main image fit more comfortably in between the joystick and buttons. Other than that, making artwork for this stick should be fairly easy.

Parts Compatibility 

This section will be a lot of assuming, but it is already confirmed that it'll have Sanwa buttons. So with that we can kind of confirm that Seimitsu, Hori, Crown, Qanba and a pleathora of other Japanese styled arcade buttons can fit inside this case. With all the room it does seem that screw in buttons can be used without much issues. As for joysticks, it isn't said that it comes stock with a Sanwa JLF, but it is safe to assume that'll use some type of Japanese style joystick. We don't know how big the case is going to be so we can't comment on Korean joystick support. American styled parts will most likely not be able to fit inside this case. PCB upgradability might be simple or complex. This really depends on how the control panel is attached to the main PCB.

Conclusion

While it is one step forward for Mad Catz to make an original design (at least when writing this), it is two step backs with the design itself and the need for a control bypass to be needed for PS4/PS5 and Xbox support. Still depending on price (and if other features get announced) this can a successful return of Mad Catz to the arcade stick community. However overpricing and more questionable decisions can lead to the community looking at different options.  

If any more news comes out, then I do plan on updating or making a new post about it. Till next time.

- globe

Cool Aliexpress Stuff for Arcade Sticks/Fightsticks V1

Aliexpress is a pretty cool site, I often browse just to see what comes up. I know there's some worry about it due to scams/packages getting lost, but from my experience that chance is pretty low. It might take a while to get to you however. Aliexpress is also pretty helpful when getting a refund if the package is never sent or lost.

When browsing I usually look at arcade items so often I come across some cool products. I thought I would share some in this post. I'll limit myself to 10 just so this isn't too long/more in the future. I won't include enclosures since that can be for a future post. The titles and pictures formatting might be a bit odd. I'm too lazy to adjust it. The images are in webp and don't want to spend the time converting them.

I am NOT associated with any company/store mentioned. If something happens with any orders please message the store, not me. Links are NOT referral links.  

LED Joystick 5V Light Illuminated Glitter Fighters Stick Durable Copy SANWA Rocker With Clear Bat Top Ball Arcade Joystick

To be honest I'm really only putting this here because of how cool they look and how it looks like if a Sanwa and Seimitsu joystick had a baby. The joystick base is pretty unique with the translucent color. Not sure on how the switches are. If anything you could put in a regular Sanwa PCB and it'd probably still work. There's two connections so I think it's for digital and analog inputs. The description just says "fishing games". The LEDs are most likely just white and the use of translucent colors gives it the colorway. For under $10 I might pick one up to see how it is. If you really care about internals of your stick then this could be a cool way to color match it.

SJ@JX Arcade Controller 3D Analog Joystick Sensor Module Potentiometer Thumb Stick

 

Now for a joystick that is actually analog, we have one from SJ@JX. Pretty cool and on the cheaper side when comparing it to other analog solutions. I do plan on eventually picking one up, but the case need would most likely need to be pretty big. Or maybe it's similar size to a Korean joystick. Either way it's pretty cool. 

LED arcade joystick 5v luminous colorful led joystick Arcade stick joysticks for arcade doll machine Pandora box

Probably the last joystick I'm going to mention for now. This is basically a less cool version of the previous LED joystick. Simpler might be better for some. Looks similar to Qanba's LED joystick so you can probably use a Sanwa PCB rather than the PCB it comes with.

GX12 square base aviation connector flange socket 2 pin 3pin 4pin 5pin 6pin 7pin diam 12mm

 

GX12 ports are pretty cool. Arcade sticks like the TE2/TE2+ and Razer Atrox/Panthera use them. They are pretty easy to install to any arcade stick. However the flaw of adding one to your own arcade stick is the chance of the port twisting. It might not be a lot, but it does happen. This really doesn't matter to everyone and this could be fixed with some lock tight, but these mounting plates attached to the GX12 port are pretty cool and solve this issue. If you do plan on buying one of these then go for either the 5pin or 4pin version. I'd recommend the 5pin. They don't come with the mounting screw, but the size I think will fit it is M2 or M1. I recommend taking it to a hardware store to get the correct screws. Only thing to make this better is some type of gasket that goes around it. Kind of like the Neutrik ports.

Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder PC with 5V to Joystick Arcade Rocker Circuit Board Control Panel For MAME Gaming

Also known as the CY-2201/2202 this little PCB board has been pretty good for me. I won't go too in dept about it now (since I plan to do it some time in the future), but a very good cheap PCB board. The only issue is that the shop sends you the wrong type of connector to give this board power. You can find the actual cable on FocusAttack. Or if you know how to solder you can make your own connector.

Rocker Mixbox Keyboard Rocker Keyboard Direction Mixbox360 Instead Rocker Installation

 

 

Another way to add keyboard controls to your arcade stick. Not 100% sure on this. If you don't live in the United States then this could be a good option. However if you do live the United States then I think the options from OmniArcade or MyrzArcade are better. Still cool to see these here and there.

ELEWIND 22mm USB connector socket Economy cheaper plastic type USB2.0 socket Female B to Female A

 

Another connector port for the people who use USB-B cables. These are a similar bypass port to the ones FocusAttack and AdaFruit sell. However those are in black, these ones are in white which is the reason I'm sharing them. Easier to color match for those who have a case/build that is mainly white focused. The only issue I see is that these might just be spray painted so quality of this product can be questionable.

EG STARTS Arcade Spinner for Arcade1UP Machine Asteroids Games Controllers

 

Spinners aren't something a lot of people use, but if you do need one then they are often expensive. This spinner does seem like a good option (according to the reviews) and isn't super pricey. However I do think you can find this on Amazon so be sure to check there before Aliexpress if you need the item in a timely matter.

RAC-J300S Detachable Arcade Joystick Shaft Quick Release DIY PARTS Support Sanwa

Now time for a Phreakmods The Link knock off. If you are able to purchase the original one then please do. It really isn't that much more than the one I linked. If you aren't able to buy the original one or you have an extreme budget then this doesn't seem that bad of an option.

10pcs Built-in Small Micro Switch For DIY Arcade Controller Jamma Mame 24mm Factory Price Arcade Button Round Push Button

Lastly I'll show some buttons. Chinese generic buttons aren't too great, but I'm sharing these for a couple reasons. It's pretty uncommon to find generic metallic 24mm buttons. This is a screw on, but a pretty long one which might not be the best for slim cases. These are pretty cheap so the quality can be questionable. Regardless might be an item I check out. 

WIP #1 - Daiwa Scarlet/VLX Mishmash Mad Catz TE

 

EDIT (10/07/2023): I finished this build however it took a different direction, here's a link to the finished build. - https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccglu1Lu-KH/ 

To keep my blog active, I thought I would document the building of this stick. Since it actually does have more going into it than most of my other builds. My plan is to complete this build before 2022, I still have a couple months left (I still have a bunch of other builds left too, but uh I'll finish those eventually too). 

Anyways, lets start at things that are mostly finished. 

Finished/Decided

Artwork Design 

I've been wanting to do a design with Daiwa Scarlet since she's my 2nd favorite out of the Uma Mumuse series, but I've never really got a good idea on what to design. So playing around with a couple artworks and placing it behind a basic background, I eventually made something I liked. For some reason I had an idea to just put the VLX design in there too and I'd say it fits fairly well. Some might prefer it without the anime character, but this is my stick so she stays.

Buttons

These might look like regular Sanwa OBSC buttons, but they are mechanical switch buttons I found on AliExpress. They are pretty interesting, and cheaper than the other options. 

They originally came with MX-Blue style clones soldered onto a PCB. These were fine, but after messing around with one, I figured out that the switch mounts via the top so if I removed this PCB then I can put pretty much any MX styled switch in there. I'm not 100% sure on what switches to put in, but currently there's Novelkeys x Kailh Linear Cream switches. They kind of feel like a lighter Seimitsu button.

I'll talk more about connecting these to a PCB later in the post.

Case Choice

This I'm still not 100% sure on. I own quite a bit of arcade sticks so I can fit the artwork to any other stick I own. However I do own way too many Mad Catz TE (I want to say around 10), so I feel like I should get to customizing those first or just sell some of them. So I decided to go with the TE really for how the buttons are attached (which I'll talk about later) to a PCB. Ultimately this can change, but I think I'll go through with it mainly because I like the case design (I wouldn't own 10 if I didn't) and the bezel and side panels can add more customization. 

Non Finished/Undecided 

PCB

The stock PCB on early Mad Catz arcade sticks are pretty ass when it comes to PC (which is my main "console"). So there's a good possibility that I'll change the PCB to a Brook board. Which one? Still don't know. Not sure if I'm going to make this one of my main sticks or something that just stays around the house and is used casually or with friends. I was also considering a pad hack, but we'll see. The Mad Catz PCB also come with a daughter board when it comes to connecting their buttons. It's pretty cool and one of the reason why I chose this stick for this build. 

Basically the idea I had when it came to connecting the MX buttons to the board is to trim one side of the connection cable and solder that to a Kailh hotswap. Then I'll basically have a quick disconnect for the buttons and I can test out other switches, if I decide too. This should work, really the only issue comes if the kailh hotswaps will fall off the switch progs. Other than that everything else should be fine (in theory).

Joystick

I'll probably go with either a JLF or Seimitsu LS-32. As for balltop, I did like those Seimistu's marble ball tops, but they might be out of stock currently (and may never come back). ParadiseArcadeShop also has some cool ball tops so I might go with one of those too.  

Plexi or Adhesive?

Currently I'm using an adhesive print for the artwork. I've been testing adhesive printing mainly on sticks that don't have plexi pre available for them (i.e Hori EX2, Hori VX/V3, Mad Catz SE).  This has gone decent for the most part. Personally I go with Walgreens printing. Their prices are pretty good and discounts happen often. Shipping is quick or you can even do same day pick up. The only issues I've had is I'd like for the material to be a little thicker, adhesive seems good for the most part, but if you touch it a lot then it'll unstick to the surface pretty easily. Lastly is that you kind of have to indicate that the print is an adhesive order. I do this by having text on the print saying that it's an adhesive order. I was having issues where the person printing it either ignored it or didn't notice and sent me a regular poster. Then there's other issues of using adhesive, you have to cut it out yourself and worry about air bubbles which is really annoying. Plexi is another option, but my main issue with plexi is how it handles heat, mainly humidity. It just flexes and it can also ruin the cardstock. Also for the skinnier plexis they flex pretty easily. That's kind of the reasoning I've been going with adhesive, since it doesn't have those issues, but it still does bring in issue of it's own. Also $10 > $25, I'll probably get another print of the artwork to get a cleaner cut.

Cable

I like adding a detachable cable to my builds. Mainly because I feel like arcade stick (specifically higher priced ones) should already come with this. Having a detachable cable makes storage easier too. I usually like adding a GX-12 cable since they are pretty easy to make and the mounting doesn't take that much room in the case. Depending on the PCB I might have a GX-16 detachable aspect to have regular USB or Type C support. Really all I have to decide is what paracord to use. I usually don't add Tech Flex, but I might for these cables. I'll probably do a tutorial on how to add a GX-12 or GX-16 port to an arcade stick so look forward to that whenever that comes.

Bezel/Side Panels 

And last we have the Bezel and Side Panels. The Mad Catz TE is pretty cool for this aspect and does add a lot of customization options to the build. You can find different color bezels on eBay, but side panels (thicker ones) aren't as common. Although for the slim panels, Buttercade does have his service for printing new ones. I might go that route or if the regular black side panels look good in the end then stick with those. I have a cool idea for the bezel, but I'm not sure how I'll able to achieve it. 

 

That is about it currently. I might do another WIP in the future before the complete build. If you read all of this then thanks. I am not sponsored by anything I mentioned. If you'd like to help me with this build (or any future ones) then consider commissioning me for some Photoshop work. Until next time. 

- globe

My Custom Arcade Sticks Collection (Sept 2020)

    Decided to show some of the arcade sticks that I've customized over the last few years. It isn't all of them, since 3 got ruined by humidity over the summer so I can't show those. Although I do still have a plethora of other sticks to showcase. All these sticks were customized by me and I designed/resized the art on all of them. Sorry for the poor lighting, I decided to do this during the night and my lamp isn't too bright. Let's start with a group shot. 

Here's the 11 of them. I'll go over each of them and give a bit of backstory/parts being used.

Leona Heidern PDP Injustice BattleStick 

 

Non blurry pic - https://www.reddit.com/r/fightsticks/comments/g9f9pu/customized_injustice_battlestick_leona_heidern/

Case - PDP Injustice BattleStick

PCB - Stock PS3

Joystick - Sanwa JLF 

Buttons - Qanba LED Buttons with Sanwa Switches

 

    Sorry for the blurry pic, but I did link my reddit post about and it has a higher quality picture. Leona is one of my favorite KOF characters lore wise (probably next to K'), but actually not my favorite Ikari Warriors character to play as. That would have to go to Clark. I do plan on have a stick based on him. I picked Leona for this stick really due to the stock blue LEDs. I thought it matched her color way pretty well and looking at the finished results I would say it does. Nice thing about the Qanba buttons that came with this stick is they are Sanwa clones and support Sanwa switches. You do have to be careful taking off the LED pcb inside of them, but once you do that, they feel pretty nice. In the future I plan on writing about how awesome and underappreciated the PDP Injustice BattleStick is so I won't talk too much about the stick right now. 

Ai Miyashita PDP Injustice BattleStick

 

Case - PDP Injustice BattleStick

PCB - Stock Xbox 360

Joystick - Sanwa JLF

Buttons - Sanwa OBSF

    Another Injustice BattleStick because I actually like this stick quite a bit. Customized with the character Ai Miyashita from Love Live Nijigasaki. Probably my favorite character out of the bunch. She's super genki and actually kind of a mary sue. I love it. Her gyaru design is nice too, also her voice actor is a pretty great performer in the live shows. This stick isn't actually complete, I do plan on changing a couple things. However I couldn't help, but put this build together. If you actually look closely the plexi is broken. One of the top panel screws was pretty stripped and trying to loosen it, I broke the plexi in the corner. It isn't too noticeable however I will probably get a replacement in the future. So expect an update from this stick. There's also a story about the artwork printing, but I'll explain it when I get to the other stick that I ordered artwork for. 

Kaga (Kantai Collection) Razer Panthera

Case - Razer Panthera

PCB - Stock PS4

Joystick - Crown 303FK

Buttons - Sanwa OBSF

    The only arcade stick that I own that has a Korean lever. Nothing special, it was just a Crown 303FK that I got from one of the Qanba Q4RAFs. Character on here is Kaga from Kantai Collection, I really like her. The original art was only in black and white so I decided to color Kaga and I think I did a decent job. This stick will probably change a little bit in the future. Focus Attack plans on releasing a noir panel for the Razer Panthera. While vewlix is good, noir is just better in my opinion. I know Arcade Shock already offers these panels, but FocusAttack does make it simpler to submit your art. Also I don't think custom art is regularly available on Arcade Shock. I might do some modifications to the Crown 303FK. While I think it's okay, that might only be because it's the only Korean lever I've tried. I also have seen Korean lever experts call it trash, so maybe some modifications will be a good move. 

Kaga & Akagi (Kantai Collection) B15SDM Case

 

How the stick originally looked - http://www.joystickvault.com/showgallery.php?cat=903

Case - B15SDM Custom

PCB - Brook Zero Pi PCB (PS3/PS2/PSX/PC/Switch)

Joystick - Sanwa JLF

Buttons - Sanwa OBSN

    One of my holy grail (with arcade sticks) was to own a B15SDM. For people who just got into arcade stick, B15 is a legend in the custom arcade stick world. Just go look at what he's made with the link provided above or on his website. B15 isn't around anymore (retired), so when I had a chance to purchase this body, I sure as hell did. I do believe I'm either the 3rd or 4th owner of this case. Let me just say that it didn't come with the original art so don't get mad at me for putting something else on it. While the case is great, it isn't perfect. Besides the cosmetic issues, I would like to believe that this was one of the first cases B15 made, since he did some questionable stuff when it came to mounting buttons and the plexi not being flush. Either way I do love this case and it sure is going to be one of my main sticks going forward. I do plan on changing the PCB to the Brook Universal, but for right now I put in a Zero Pi. The artwork choice is art I always liked of Kaga and Akagi from Kantai Collection. Funny story about the art (thing I was talking about with the Ai Miyashita art), when I got my order from FocusAttack they actually sent me the wrong artwork. So instead of the prints I ordered I got two prints for the Razer Panthera EVO. I emailed FocusAttack about it and they were very professional and apologized and they even paid for one day shipping so the next day I got my artwork. They didn't tell me to do anything with the wrong artwork I received so I guess now I have two Razer Panthera EVO artworks that I don't know what to do with (honestly I kind of feel obligated to purchase a Panthera EVO). Artwork might change, while Kaga does fit the blue, Akagi doesn't really fit the green. Maybe I'll commission someone for hand drawn artwork of Kaga or maybe I'll do a Kaga & Zuikaku build. They are the best of buds. Either way that isn't until the distant future so right now it'll be this look and I think it looks pretty great. 

Labrys Eightarc Fusion Synthesis 

 

Featured on Mr. Sujano's Fightsticks of the Month - https://youtu.be/BH17QOJeXqA

Case - Eightarc Fusion Synthesis

PCB - Stock PS3/Xbox 360/PC

Joystick - Sanwa JLF

Buttons - Sanwa OBSC

    Pretty simple build here. Featuring one of my mains in Persona 4 Arena Ultimax. For anyone wondering Eightarc is the same thing as Qanba. For some reason when Qanba started to sell their arcade sticks in the United States they went by Eightarc. Not really sure why since later down the line they just went by Qanba. Either way this clear case is my personal favorite right next to the clear blue one. Which I do own, but still need to do some tinkering with. Like I said before, just a simple build featuring everyone's favorite New Jersey girl. 

 

Kanan Matsuura Mad Catz TE 

 

Case - Mad Catz TE

PCB - Brook PS3/PS4 Audio Board

Joystick - Sanwa JLF

Buttons - Sanwa OBSF

 

    Originally I used the Brook board for a Mad Catz V.S., but sadly the artwork got pretty destroyed by the humidity this summer so I had to scrap it. So that's where this TE comes from. Featuring my favorite girl from Aqours (and maybe all of Love Live), Kanan Matsuura. If you've only watched the Aqours anime then please read the phone game stories and manga, pretty much every character is better in those than the anime (mainly talking about Aqours). Especially my girl Kanan. The anime is still decent, but could've been better. A word of advice, if you have the option to use thicker plexi rather than thin go with the thicker plexi. Thin plexi has a real problem with flexing and won't protect the artwork as much as the thicker plexi. Thicker plexi can flex too, but it isn't as common. While thin plexi may look more "clean" you'll have less headaches using a thicker plexi. 

 

Victrix Pro FS

 

Case - Victrix Pro FS

PCB - Stock PS4 Board

Joystick - Sanwa JLF (The Link 2)

Buttons - Seimitsu PS-14 (First 6) / Sanwa OBSJ (Last 2)

    I got this stick at a pretty good deal (~$150) and even with that I'm kind of disappointed with it. While it looks great and the brush aluminum feels awesome, it's pretty limited all things consider. The PCB broke on me. Considering that this stick uses a ribbon cable for the control panel, adding a Brook board won't be the easiest thing in the world. I might contact Victrix about a replacement PCB. Although them sending one, might not happen considering I bought this stick second hand. They did make another version of this too with an actual touch pad so they might not even have the first PCB in their inventory anymore. If that's the case and no one plans on making an easy mod then I might just sell the case and someone else can have fun with it.   

Rinze Morino Qanba Q4RAF

Case - Qanba Q4RAF

PCB - Stock PS3/Xbox 360/PC

Joystick - Sanwa JLF  (Link)

Buttons - Sanwa OBSF 

    This was the stick where I got the Korean lever from. This is the Qanba Q4RAF looks quite similar to the Eightarc Fusion doesn't it. For anyone who wants to know the differences, the Q4RAF comes with the start button cut out on the original plexi. On the Fusion it doesn't have the start button cut out, but it's still there on the metal plate. The other thing is the Q4RAF has a handle while the Fusion doesn't. You probably can't see the handle on this Q4RAF and that's mainly because I took off. Not a fan of it. I guess I should explain what the "Link" is. You probably noticed with this stick and the last one that there isn't the shaft of the stick. That's because those two sticks have a detachable joystick. A very handy product when it comes to storage and traveling. Pretty great product and I recommend picking one up if you're interested. Artwork is of Rinze Morino from the iDOLM@STER Shiny Colors. She's pretty cute so I put her on a stick. 

Yukiko Amagi Mad Catz TES

 

Case - Mad Catz TES

PCB - Stock Xbox 360

Joystick - Sanwa JLF

Buttons - Sanwa OBSF

 

    The other character I main in Persona 4 Arena Ultimax is Yukiko. Another TE although this is the TES version with the slim sides. I vinyl wrapped the sides to be red. From a distant it looks okay, but if you look close then you can see that it isn't the best wrapping job in the world. I'll put most of the blame on me since it was my first time wrapping something, but I did use cheap material off eBay and some videos about vinyl wrapping say that sometimes the material can be the issue (the results were probably mostly due to my inexperience). I might order some 3D printed side panels from Buttercade or I might stick with the black sides since I did like that look too. 

 

Rabbit Hero Mirko Mad Catz TE

 

Case - Mad Catz TE

PCB - Akishop PS360+ (PS3/Xbox360/Bunch of Retro Consoles)

Joystick - Seimitsu LS-32

Buttons - Sanwa OBSF

    Rounding out the last TE that has been customized is this one featuring Mirko from Boku no Hero Academia. Currently the anime isn't up to the part where she is pretty awesome. If you've read the manga then you know what kind of power and guts she has. The PCB this arcade stick is using is an Akishop PS360+ and it's pretty awesome. Sadly this board isn't being made anymore, but if you are able to find one in the aftermarket for a good price (around the $40 range or less) then I definitely recommend picking one up. My only stick that has a Seimitsu joystick. This isn't because I dislike Seimitsu joysticks, it's more of the fact almost all these arcade sticks came with a JLF and I'm pretty cheap so I'd rather just use the JLF than pay $20 for a Seimitsu joystick. I do plan on changing a some things. Still not sure if I want the fat sides or the thin sides and I might attempt to make wooden side panels since I think it'd look pretty cool. Regardless one of my favorites and one that I use pretty often. 

Sachiko Koshimizu JYS Arcade Stick

 

My write up and how to mod - https://forums.shoryuken.com/t/jys-arcade-fightstick-nintendo-switch-pc-thread/589768

 

Case - JYS Arcade Stick

PCB - Stock Switch

Joystick - Generic joystick

Buttons - Seimitsu PS-14

    Last one to show and it's actually a bit different. This is the JYS arcade stick. A stick that you'd probably see floating around eBay or Aliexpress. Probably one of the better Chinese OEM arcade sticks. I won't talk too much about it since I did a write up and how to mod in the link above. So if you want to learn more then follow that link to the SRK forums. Honestly if you can get one for cheap (like $30-$40) it's a fun portable stick to play around with. You will need to know how to crimp wires if you do want to upgrade the parts. I'm still using the stock joystick since it isn't half bad. Not a JLF, but  pretty usable. Character is Sachiko from the iDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls. I find her to be pretty funny and is certainly the cutest idol in the world. 

 

Fightstick Artwork Comission Page

This is information if you want to commission me to do a fightstick artwork for you. I have done artwork for a vast range of arcade sticks and stickless controllers. As long as there is an artwork template for it, I can make some art. Please check it out! 

Yes I am still active - 10/29/2024

PRICES

$10 USD for an image resizing to template

$15 USD for a regular design artwork 

$20 USD for a manga panel design artwork

$30 USD for a manga collage artwork

NOTE: Manga designs are only for characters that come from a regularly available manga series. Comics are okay too! If you have panels you'd like to be used, please let me know. If you don't then that is okay too. 

EXTRAS

$10 USD for side and/or bottom panels 

$10 USD for a design for dustwashers*

$10 USD for a design for ArcadeShock's custom artwork button prints*

*5 dollars off if bundle with anything above 

(Paypal only, sorry for the inconvenience)

Tip are never required, but always appreciated!

Time for completion usually depends on the queue, but it should take 2 to 4 days. A week or two max. Manga panel designs take a lot longer to complete than regular design, thus the reasoning for costing more.

CONTACT ME

Reddit: /u/hugs_n_giggles

Twitter: @hugs_n_giggles

Instagram: /hugs_n_giggles 

BlueSky: @hugs-n-giggles.bsky.social

If you don't have an account to one of the sites listed above then leave a comment on here on some way to contact you (discord, email etc). I check Reddit and Twitter more frequently. So if I fail to respond on Instagram or BlueSky then please try to contact me on the other two sites. 

I live on the East Coast USA (EST) so take that into account if I don't respond immediately. I speak English, but I have no issue with using google translate.

TERMS OF SERVICE

I do not print or cut artwork

I do not draw

Payments are made via Paypal

Payment must be sent before files are uploaded

No refunds

Artwork should take 2 days to a week for completion

.psd / .jpg / .png  files will be provided (.pdf if requested)

Revisions are OK!

Files will be online for 2 weeks before deletion

 

 

Once the artwork is completed, I'll upload the files to a Google Doc folder and you'll be able to print using FocusAttack or any other printing store. 

EXAMPLES

 

 Here are a couple of examples of the regular, manga panel, and manga collage designs. All come from costumer request. 

REGULAR DESIGN

 

 

 

 

MANGA PANEL DESIGN

 

 

 

 

 

MANGA COLLAGE DESIGN

 

 

 

If you'd like to see more examples then feel free to message me and I can provide more.

If you have made it this far then thanks for checking out the page and consideration! I hope to see your message soon.

- globe (aka hugs_n_giggles)