GameSir has launched a new mobile gaming accessory designed to recreate classic handheld experiences on modern smartphones.
That comes in the form of the GameSir Pocket Taco, a compact vertical controller now available through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign.
GameSir has its sights set on retro and arcade-style mobile gaming with a design focused on portability, physical controls, and seamless wireless connectivity with this new pad. The Pocket Taco aims to replace touchscreen inputs for emulators and classic-inspired mobile games with tactile physical controls.
Retro-inspired design and portability
The Pocket Taco uses a vertical clamp-style layout that transforms compatible smartphones into a compact handheld gaming console. The controller design draws inspiration from classic arcade cabinets and early handheld gaming systems familiar to nostalgic players.
Bluetooth connectivity supports wireless gameplay across Android and other compatible mobile platforms without cables or adapters.
GameSir designed the Pocket Taco to fit easily into pockets, bags, or small storage cases for everyday travel use.
Soft silicone padding also helps protect smartphones from scratches while ensuring a secure grip during gameplay.
Smart power features automatically turn the controller on when unfolded for immediate gaming sessions. The Pocket Taco also powers down automatically when closed to conserve battery life between sessions.
Controls, customisation and availability
The controller features membrane ABXY buttons and a membrane D-pad designed to replicate classic handheld input feel. GameSir says the control layout supports both classic arcade games and modern retro-inspired mobile titles across supported platforms.
The Pocket Taco also includes a built-in keyboard mode that enables flexible input switching for emulator use and specialised control setups.
Users can remap buttons and adjust input profiles through the GameSir mobile app for personalised control configurations. However, users can also adjust several settings using on-device button combinations without opening the companion app at all.
If you do open it, the app also supports D-pad diagonal locking, G-Touch, V-Touch, and additional configuration options aimed at advanced users.
The hollow-bottom design allows phone charging during gameplay without removing the controller, supporting longer uninterrupted play sessions.
Powering it all is a fairly sized 600mAh battery that should be plenty for even the longest of gaming sessions.
The GameSir Pocket Taco is available to back now on Gamesir website and Kickstarter with early bird pricing starting at $34.99 or £27.99.
GameSir expects to ship the controller to backers in April, with the crowdfunding campaign running until March 14, 2026.
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