Meet the Hattori Hanzo of videogames – Roberto Duran, one of the world’s most sought-after makers of high-end arcade-style controllers. He sells his custom “stikz” for as much as $500 apiece, mostly to industry insiders and tournament players.
Duran started building controllers when his Soul Calibur exploits outpaced off-the-shelf models. His most elaborate work combines hardwoods like oak and poplar with arcade-grade microswitches imported from Japan. They each take 12 hours to construct, but the resulting stick operates with phenomenal finesse, speed, and durability. He can tweak stiffness to a client’s preference, and finishes each pad with a lavish illustration – either an original piece or artwork from a popular anime or game title.
Of course, not every screen warrior has the cash for such a precision instrument. Luckily, Duran is willing to consider trades. The best barter yet? An authentic samurai sword. “It cuts better than the blades you find at the knife shop in the mall,” he says. He must make killer sushi.
– Brian Lam
credit Ethan Pines
Roberto Duran with some of his high-end controllers.
credit Ethan Pines
Duran’s Ninja Scroll joystick is durable, fast, and won’t slip on your lap.
credit Ethan Pines
Duran’s Bamboo Ryu joystick.
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Choose Your Own Adventure Returns
Control Freak
