Microsoft’s original Xbox was regarded curiously by gamers and the press alike at launch. It was bigger, bulkier, and featured an eldritch monstrosity as its original controller. Thankfully, Microsoft saw fit to improve things later in the console’s lifespan with the Controller S, but nothing quite compares to the simple glory of the Xbox 360 controller. Now, there’s a way to use one on your original Xbox.
This project is the work of [Ryzee119], who previously adapted the controller for use with the Nintendo 64. An Arduino Pro Micro, acting as a master controller, talks to a MAX3421 USB host controller, which interfaces with an Xbox 360 wireless receiver, either genuine or third-party. The Arduino reads the data from the wireless receiver and then emulates a standard controller to the original Xbox. The system can handle up to four players on wireless 360 controllers, requiring an extra Arduino per controller to act in slave mode and emulate the signals to the original Xbox. In testing, lag appears roughly comparable with an original wired controller. This is a particularly important consideration for fast-paced action games or anything rhythm based.
It’s a well executed, fully featured project that should improve your weekly Halo 2 LAN parties immensely. No more shall Greg trip over a controller cable, spilling Doritos and Mountain Dew on your shagpile carpeting. Video after the break.
[Thanks to DJ Biohazard for the tip!]
Where would one find the correct USB adapter for XBox console? The ones I’ve looked at my usual source of cheap electronics don’t have mini or micro USB end.
Buy an extension cord?
You’d probably be able to find one at the same place where you find an XBox controller lead, a USB lead, and a pair of scissors ;-)
Original Xbox controller is USB but propiarity connector.
So you by an extension cord and do some home surgery with a USB cord.
Male Xbox to female USB (these exist) then the female USB to male microUSB (these also exist)
The original xbox controller is my favorite. It fits my hands perfectly.
I’ve bought several Duke controllers at yard sales. Great controller and a bunch of nostalgia for sure!
Ryzee119 is doing awesome work in this space! The N64 version is so cool- I hope the work continues!
Umm original controllers had breakaway cables so one didn’t trip over the cord…jus sayin
I know this is over two years old, but some third party controllers don’t have breakaway cables, so Greg is still a liability.
Had this not been done before?
Not that i am aware of. the closest hardware I have seen is the hasu usb to usb keyboard remapper.
What happens if you simply buy or hack together a XBox USB to normal USB Type A female cable and plug a wired Xbox 360 controller into an XBox?
Gregg, that will not work due to driver issues. That’s why this project is so good, as it translates the Xbox360 controller output into one that the original Xbox can understand
Awesome find… If only you could use a XB1 controller as well
Hello
I have a modded original Xbox and I’d like to be able to use the controllers from my Pandora’s box usb out to control it. Right now my Pandora’s box can control my PS3 via usb but no other consoles will work. Do you think think gizmo would allow the use of my Pandora’s box controller to control the Xbox? How much is it?
Looking at firing up my modded Xbox after many years in storage to enable the kids to enjoy the fun I did many year before.
Can’t find my trust Logitech cordless controllers for it so this looks amazing. Can I buy the cob as a lot so as all I have to locate are the 360 controllers?
If so where how and how much?