Every time i release a new video, a few people ask the same question. I suppose the first article i wrote defending the concept was too abstract for its own good. It’s worth another try.
I’ve been using the PS3 version of Street Fighter IV throughout the SF4 Biweekly TACV series, so i’ve had to utilize two ASCII PAD V Pro programmable controllers to simultaneously control both characters. Obtaining a good (Japanese) program pad has become nearly impossible, since we’re talking about out-of-production PSX controllers. ASCII and Hori both stopped manufacturing them once the PS2 came out, probably because analog controls would’ve been too difficult to simulate.
Personally i prefer program pads to sticks simply because pads are more convenient, even though my execution is better on a stick. Both work fine, so get ahold of whichever one you can find – or better yet, learn to use macro software if your computer is powerful enough to run the PC version of whatever game you want to play.
What you can do with a programmable controller:
– save time by consistently executing prohibitively
difficult input sequences
– precision mashing
– establish and reproduce accurate spacing
– test every possible permutation of a given
experimental sequence to prove with a high
degree of certainty that it doesn’t work
– pick 3P/3K colors in CvS2
What programmable controllers can’t do:
– cut down combo video production time, since you’ll
have to compensate by making your combos harder
– random mashing
– work with games/consoles that require analog sticks
– eliminate all randomness, since multiple factors affect
Magnetic Tempest patterns, CvS2 superfreeze, etc.
– bypass charge time, chain lockout, or any other
hard-coded execution barrier
– alter or modify the game engine in any way
– come up with ideas
