LRG Retro Inspired Switch & PC Controller Teardown and Comparison

Limited Run Games released a modern version of the iconic and infamous Philips CD-i 22ER9019 wired controller to coincide with the release of Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore. This controller is often referred to as the 'spoon' controller due to its unusual shape.

The CD-i enthusiast in me, of course, could not resist buying one. I thought it would be fun and interesting to compare this new controller to the Philips original.

General Notes

Let’s get a few technicalities out of the way first. Let’s face it: this controller is primarily a novelty item. No one expects to replace their current Switch or PC gamepad with it. The controller even came with a disclaimer stating that it was really only designed for use with Arzette, which makes sense.

The original Philips controller was also never really designed for use with video games. It was intended as a generic pointing device for the many educational or digital video titles released for CD-i. Philips offered a wide range of other input devices, including purpose-built gamepads.

The Philips original had two variants: one with audio control buttons and one without. The version with audio control buttons is the closest match to the LRG controller. However, I only have the variant without audio controls on hand, so that’s the one I'll be using for the comparison.

Look and feel

Upon taking the controller out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the cable length. The images used in LRG's marketing materials, as well as the one on the box, led me to believe that the cable would be very short. I was glad to find that this wasn't the case. The cable is actually quite long, comparable to that of the original Philips controller.

The new controller is also a close match in terms of weight and color. The quality of the plastic feels about the same as well. LRG's version adds an extra button at the top, along with an additional small button, compared to the Philips controller with audio control buttons. All buttons feel very responsive.

I only have two minor nitpicks: the controller cable is black, whereas the original Philips controller had a color-matched anthracite cable. Also, the LRG controller's directional pad is missing the four small bumps for diagonal directions.

Teardown

The inside of the controller is quite similar to the original; however, there are some noticeable differences. The LRG controller uses Phillips-head screws, whereas the original used Torx screws. The PCB is smaller and has a more modern appearance. It’s also interesting to note that they maintained the connection between the left and right face buttons, making them one piece.

Conclusion

Overall, this is a very faithful recreation of the original controller. I think they did a great job.

Despite being just a novelty, I really like it. I found Arzette to be a very enjoyable game, and I’ll definitely be replaying it with this new controller at some point.