A Canadian startup founded by gaming enthusiasts sought to develop their first professional mobile gaming controller. The vision was to create a device that offered console-level precision and comfort for mobile gamers. With limited experience in hardware development, the startup needed comprehensive support across the entire product development lifecycle.

This case study details the complete design and development process of a telescopic gaming controller with Hall effect joysticks and universal phone compatibility.

• Precision Gaming: Implementation of Hall effect sensor technology for drift-free control

• Universal Compatibility: Telescopic design accommodating most smartphones, including with cases

• Enhanced User Experience: Responsive micro-switch buttons with quiet operation

• Customization Capabilities: Support for personalized settings through dedicated app

• Premium Construction: Durable materials with professional aesthetic and ergonomic design

Design Research

Extensive research into mobile gaming behaviors identified key pain points: joystick drift, device compatibility issues, ergonomic fatigue, and button noise. These insights informed four core design principles: precision, compatibility, quiet operation, and customization.

Industrial Design

The controller features a sleek, performance-oriented aesthetic with ergonomic contours. Button layout and telescopic mechanisms underwent multiple iterations to ensure comfort and stability during extended gameplay sessions.

Mechanical Design

• High-strength composite materials and metal components for telescopic mechanism

• Modularized Hall effect joysticks and micro-switch buttons for consistent performance

• Adjustable clamp design accommodating devices from 5.5 to 7.2 inches, with case compatibility

Prototyping and User Testing

Seven rounds of functional prototypes were developed and tested:

• 4-hour fatigue tests for grip comfort evaluation

• In-game accuracy testing using popular titles including Call of Duty: Mobile and Genshin Impact

• Compatibility testing across 30+ phone models and case types

• App interface testing for customization intuitiveness

User feedback directly informed refinements to stick tension, button travel, and clamp mechanisms.

Supply Chain Management

Comprehensive supply chain solutions were implemented:

• Partnership with specialized gaming peripheral manufacturers

• Cost optimization through material and production process selection

• Small-batch pilot production support to minimize initial risk

• Multi-source backup planning for key components

• Strict quality control protocols with engineering oversight

The successful development resulted in a professional-grade mobile gaming controller that received market recognition for its precision engineering, quiet operation, and exceptional device compatibility.

This case demonstrates the complete product development process for gaming consoles, from initial concept and user research through to manufacturing and supply chain management, providing valuable insights for hardware startups in the gaming accessories space.