5200 Controller
» PLATFORM: ATARI 5200 » RELEASED: 1982
» COST: $50 (LAUNCH), £30+ (TODAY, BOXED), £10+ (TODAY, UNBOXED)
TheAtari 5200 controller was a bold move away from the simplicity of the Atari 2600 joystick, which featured just one button and an eight direction digital joystick. The new controller featured an analogue joystick for full 360 degree movement, as well as two fire buttons on each side of the joystick to allow both left-handed and right-handed players to use it equally well. A numerical keypad was provided to allow for easier selection of options and provide additional game design opportunities, and the introduction of start, pause and reset buttons were a big step towards making the gaming experience that little bit more streamlined.