| Price | Pinkoi |
| Release | February 22, 2024 |
| Compatibility | NS / PC |
| Dimensions | 12.2″ x 9.4″ x 2″ |
Overview
Meow! đ±
You may have caught a glimpse of the Cat Arcade Wasabi by Crab Craft at Evo Japan. If not, it’s a leverless controller in the shape of a cat’s head. You can also buy a version of this controller with a lever if you want.
In any case, the Wasabi has a modular top panel, so you can switch between lever and leverless layouts on the go. Also, you can order the controller preassembled (with screws and wiring) or in DIY format to save some bucks.
Even if you’re not experienced, you should be able to easily put together the DIY version of the Wasabi within just an hour. Just make sure you have a Philips screwdriver and some pliers on hand, alright?
Anyway, one way you can order the Wasabi is with 14 buttonsâthe jump button being bigger than the rest, making it easier to press with the side of either thumb.
That said, why does the Wasabi only have 10 attack buttons? It’s because it was made with Street Fighter tournament rules in mind. Of course, you can still use this controller with other games as well.
By the way, the main buttons are either Sanwa or Seimitsuâpretty durable stuff. It’s also worth mentioning that the Wasabi is wide enough to set on your lap.
There can even be a couple of fully sized Qanba or GamerFinger function buttons on the Wasabi’s top panel. Two more function buttons can be found in the back right. As for the USB-C port, it’s in the center back.
Install whatever PCB you need to make the Wasabi compatible with your favorite consoles. By default, your controller will likely arrive with a Raspberry Pi Pico board that runs on the open source GP2040-CE firmware, which is updateable online and practically lag-free. You can also request a Brook board compatible with the PlayStation 5.
Moving on, five to seven screws seem to hold the Wasabi together. The controller can be opened up from the top or bottomâwhichever you are more comfortable with.
Aesthetically speaking, pick and choose whether you would like your Wasabi in a see-through acrylic or matte black enclosure. If you decide on a color for the joystick and/or buttons, it might have to only be one color: black or white.
By the way, it’s been confirmed that the Wasabi can accept custom artwork. We hope you will consider our popular art service here at The Arcade Stick to make your controller as beautiful as it can be!
As Crab Craft is based in Japan, consider grabbing a Wasabi from Pinkoi if you need international shipping. This controller will likely turn some heads at the next tournamentâwhile still allowing you to perform at a high level.