In the world of mobile gaming accessories, innovation often seems to take the backseat to convenience and affordability. However, Josh King, a 19-year-old who started with a simple 3D-printed gamepad prototype, has caught the attention of gamers and tech enthusiasts alike with his idea for a revolutionary mobile gaming controller. What started as a passion project now has a place at OhSnap, a company already known for its stylish and functional magnetic accessories. And the result is something that could redefine the mobile gaming experience.
The Genesis of the Idea
When Josh King first shared his ambition of revolutionizing mobile gaming with a 3D-printed gamepad, he likened his vision to that of Steve Jobs, claiming he could single-handedly change how we interact with our mobile devices. At the time, it seemed like an ambitious, if not overly grand, claim from a young tech enthusiast. However, fast forward to today, and the idea has morphed from a rough prototype into a professional, highly refined product poised to make waves in the mobile gaming world.
What was once a 3D-printed gamepad is now part of OhSnap’s growing portfolio, joining the ranks of the company’s innovative magnetic accessories. Together, they’ve transformed King’s concept into a sleek, magnetic gamepad attachment that fits seamlessly with an iPhone. It is set to make waves as one of the most exciting mobile gaming accessories to date.
A Gamepad Unlike Any Other
The OhSnap MagSafe gamepad is not your typical phone accessory. Designed with convenience and aesthetics in mind, the gamepad is sleek and slim, about the size of your average iPhone, which makes it easy to slide into your pocket. It features a MagSafe-compatible array of magnets, allowing it to attach firmly to any iPhone or magnetic ring device without the hassle of fiddling with extra pieces or accessories.
But the gamepad’s true innovation lies in its retractable design. Just like the slide-out keyboards of old or the PlayStation phones, this controller is able to retract neatly under your device when not in use. All you need to do is press a button, and the spring-loaded arm pops out, tilting your iPhone slightly towards your face for better ergonomics. With a fluid, satisfying motion, the gamepad slides into position, and you’re ready to game.
Nintendo Switch-Inspired Features
What makes the OhSnap gamepad stand out is its attention to detail. While it might be compact, it is equipped with a full set of controls typically found on larger, traditional gamepads. The gamepad includes analog sticks, inspired by the Nintendo Switch, which are equipped with Hall effect sensors to prevent the dreaded joystick drift that many gamers experience. Additionally, the gamepad boasts a pair of fold-out grips, giving you a more comfortable, full-size gamepad feel. These grips are designed to ensure you have a better hold during those intense gaming sessions, making it feel more like a proper handheld console than a simple mobile attachment.
The analog sticks are clickable, adding even more functionality to the design, and the gamepad comes with a full range of shoulder buttons and triggers. Whether you’re playing a fast-paced action game or something more strategic, the OhSnap gamepad has everything you need to control the action.
The Road to OhSnap
Before partnering with OhSnap, King tried to start his own company around the gamepad. He even attracted a few investors, manufactured some components, and was in the process of exploring injection molding. However, like many startup founders, he ran into financial difficulties and had to put the project on hold. That’s when he turned to OhSnap for help, and the partnership was born.
OhSnap has already gained a reputation for its high-quality, magnetic phone accessories, including PopSocket alternatives that have quickly gained popularity. With its expertise in magnets and mobile attachments, OhSnap has provided King with the resources and backing to bring his gamepad concept to market in a more professional, polished form.
What’s Next for the OhSnap Gamepad?
Excitingly, the OhSnap gamepad is set to launch on Kickstarter on January 2nd, 2025. While the price point is still under wraps, the Kickstarter campaign will help raise the necessary funds for mass production. For now, OhSnap is taking sign-ups for those who want to get an early look at the product and be notified when it’s available for pre-order.
The gamepad will initially come in two colors: black and white. However, King hints that more colorful, mix-and-match components will be available in the future, allowing users to customize the gamepad to fit their personal style.
While we don’t know exactly when the gamepad will hit shelves, I expect to get a hands-on experience with a prototype at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. I’ll be sure to share my impressions once I’ve had a chance to test it out in person.
Final Thoughts
Josh King’s viral 3D-printed gamepad is no longer just a concept; it’s becoming a reality with the backing of OhSnap. The combination of King’s innovative design and OhSnap’s manufacturing expertise promises to deliver a sleek, functional, and highly exciting mobile gaming accessory. Whether you’re a casual mobile gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, the OhSnap MagSafe gamepad is shaping up to be an accessory that could change the way we experience mobile gaming. Stay tuned for more updates and be sure to check out the Kickstarter campaign in the coming weeks.