GameSir Pocket Taco Mobile Controller on Kickstarter Brings Back That Game Boy Magic
- Michael G.
- Jan 15
- 7 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
The GameSir Pocket Taco mobile controller on Kickstarter brings back the pure joy of gaming you felt the first time you held a Game Boy. With $15,620 pledged from 456 backers crushing the $10,000 goal and 57 days remaining at just $30 for the Kickstarter-exclusive Atomic Purple edition, this 62.2-gram pocket rocket ditches complicated analog sticks for intuitive D-pad and ABXY buttons that actually make sense for retro gaming, adds modern shoulder buttons because it's not 1989 anymore, clamps your phone into perfect vertical handheld position, and unfolds to instant-on power that lets you game the second inspiration strikes. Created by GameSir, the gaming peripheral company founded 2013 and known as the Anti Stick-Drift Experts, Pocket Taco targets one mission: play anywhere, anytime, instantly. Commuting? Gaming. Lunch break? Gaming. Waiting room? Gaming. Your phone becomes that magical portable console childhood you remember, except now it fits in your actual pocket and connects via Bluetooth to basically everything.
Quick Verdict
Who it's for
Mobile gamers tired of touchscreen controls, retro game enthusiasts wanting authentic D-pad feel, commuters needing instant pick-up-and-play gaming, casual players intimidated by complex controllers, and anyone who misses when gaming was simple, portable, and actually fun instead of menu-diving nightmares.
Main strengths
Ultra-portable 62.2g weight with PP storage box fitting anywhere without bulk or hassle
Vertical handheld design with D-pad and ABXY buttons optimized for retro and classic-style mobile games
Instant-on power activating when unfolded and auto-shutting when closed for zero friction gaming sessions
Proven creator (GameSir) with decade of gaming peripheral expertise and anti stick-drift reputation eliminating quality concerns
Main limitations
No analog sticks limiting compatibility with modern 3D games requiring dual-stick controls
Bluetooth-only connectivity may introduce slight input lag compared to wired solutions for competitive gaming
Bottom line: The GameSir Pocket Taco mobile controller on Kickstarter nails the core mission of making mobile gaming actually enjoyable instead of frustrating touchscreen torture. GameSir's decade of experience means this ships and works, while the intentionally simple design makes gaming accessible instead of overwhelming.
Your Phone Gaming Sucks and You Know It
Let's not pretend. Gaming on your phone with touchscreen controls is absolute misery. Your thumbs slip. You tap the wrong button. Your fingers block half the screen. The virtual D-pad moves around like it's allergic to staying put. You die repeatedly to controls instead of actual difficulty.
You've tried those massive Bluetooth controllers that turn your phone into a Nintendo Switch wannabe. They're HUGE. They don't fit in bags. The analog sticks catch on everything. You need a separate backpack just for your gaming setup. So they stay home while your phone sits in your pocket, useless for gaming despite having more power than a PS3.
The GameSir Pocket Taco mobile controller on Kickstarter was born from this exact frustration. GameSir makes controllers for a living. They've released tons of designs. But they realized something crucial: for play-anywhere instant gaming, nobody had nailed the solution yet.
So they looked backwards to the device that did portability perfectly: the Game Boy.
Game Boy Got It Right in 1989
Think about it. The Game Boy was stupid simple. D-pad. Two buttons. Start and Select. That's it. No menus. No configuration. No "hold this while pressing that to activate Bluetooth pairing mode."
You turned it on. You played. Done.
Kids who'd never touched games before understood it instantly. That pure, intuitive experience is what modern mobile gaming lost in the pursuit of doing everything.
GameSir brought that philosophy back. Pocket Taco intentionally removes complex analog sticks and keeps only the most intuitive controls: D-pad and ABXY buttons. This makes it EXTREMELY beginner-friendly. Your grandma could figure this out.
But they're not living in the past. Modern shoulder buttons handle today's gaming needs, expanding playability while keeping things beautifully simple.
Vertical Handheld Feel Hits Different
Your Phone Becomes a Real Console
The vertical handheld grip and clamp structure transforms your phone into that compact, stable, ergonomic handheld you remember from childhood. The secure clamping mechanism adapts to different phone sizes, giving you the same integrated feel as a native handheld console.
This isn't your phone awkwardly attached to plastic. This is your phone BECOMING a Game Boy. That childhood magic where the device disappeared and the game took over? That's back.
Physical Buttons End Touchscreen Torture
No more slipping thumbs. No mis-taps. No frustration. Physical buttons with cushioned membrane D-pad and ABXY paired with tactile switch triggers and bumpers deliver clear, accurate, satisfying feedback.
Every press responds exactly as you intend. You FEEL the inputs. Your muscle memory engages. Gaming becomes instinctive instead of fighting your device.
Pocket Taco also helps you avoid screen rubbing. Those annoying thumb smudges blocking your view? Gone. Your screen stays clean while you game properly.
Bluetooth Freedom That Actually Matters
Most mobile controllers lock you into single platforms. Android only. iOS only. Pick your ecosystem and suffer.
Pocket Taco doesn't play that game. Universal Bluetooth connectivity pairs effortlessly with Android phones AND other compatible platforms. You're not locked in. You're not buying multiple controllers. One device, multiple platforms, zero switching hassle.
This is freedom. You game where you want, on what you want, without corporate ecosystem nonsense restricting your choices.
62.2 Grams of Pure Gaming Joy
Lighter Than Your Wallet
Sixty-two point two grams. That's it. Lighter than most phones. Lighter than your wallet. Light enough to forget it's in your pocket until you need it.
The GameSir Pocket Taco mobile controller on Kickstarter was designed for one purpose: gaming ANYWHERE. Heading home from school? Game. Traveling for work? Game. Waiting for trains? Game. Exploring new cities? Game.
Storage Box Keeps It Protected
The PP storage box keeps everything protected and organized. Toss it in your bag. Throw it in your pocket. It's there when inspiration strikes.
This is the controller that lives with you instead of living on your desk at home being useless. No excuses. No "I left it at home." Just constant gaming availability.
Instant On, Zero Friction
GameSir got tired of controllers making power buttons complicated. So Pocket Taco uses intelligent power design that activates the MOMENT you unfold it and shuts down automatically when you close it.
Unfold. Play. Fold. Done.
No buttons. No menus. No "hold for three seconds while the LED blinks twice." Just pure instant gaming the second you want it.
This is what every device should do but nobody else bothers implementing. GameSir did it because they actually use their own products.
Keyboard Mode Unlocks Everything
Pocket Taco includes built-in keyboard mode giving you flexibility beyond simple controller inputs. Switch to keyboard mode and each button remaps to match YOUR preferred layout.
You create control setups that feel completely your own. Every game plays exactly how you want it. No compromises. No "well this button would be better but oh well." Just perfect personalization.
Through the GameSir app, you customize controls in detail: button remapping, D-pad diagonal lock, full G-Touch and V-Touch support. Some adjustments happen through on-the-fly button combinations, letting you fine-tune WITHOUT pausing games.
This is YOUR controller adapting to YOUR style.
Protects Your Phone Like It's Precious
Many clamp controllers use hard plastic that scratches phones or leaves pressure marks after long sessions. GameSir used soft silicone pads in the clamp area instead.
These pads protect your phone from scratches and damage while keeping it securely held during intense gameplay. Your expensive phone stays pristine. The controller grips firmly without leaving marks.
Plus, the hollow-bottom design aligns perfectly with your charging port. Plug in and keep playing without interruption. No more "sorry, gotta stop gaming to charge." Just continuous play during long sessions or travel.
600mAh Battery Goes the Distance
The 600mAh battery supports long sessions without worry. It keeps you playing for HOURS, giving reliable power whether you're commuting, traveling, or taking extended breaks.
You're not constantly checking battery levels. You're not rationing playtime. You're just gaming until you're done, exactly how it should be.
Kickstarter Exclusive Atomic Purple
Created exclusively for earliest backers, the limited-edition Atomic Purple is ONLY available on Kickstarter. A small symbol of gratitude to those who believed in Pocket Taco from day one.
This isn't just purple plastic. It's transparent nostalgia bottled. It's that Game Boy Color aesthetic reminding you when gaming was magic. It's only here, only now, only for people who back early.
Miss this? You miss it forever.
GameSir Knows Gaming Peripherals
Founded 2013, GameSir is global leader in gaming peripherals creating high-performance controllers for consoles, PC, and mobile. Known as the Anti Stick-Drift Experts, they innovate with TMR and Hall Effect sticks delivering top-tier precision and reliability.
They've showcased products at major gaming events and launched acclaimed controllers like G7 SE and G7 Pro earning recognition from gamers and media alike. This isn't their first rodeo. This is refined expertise from a company that's been doing this for over a decade.
When GameSir ships, products actually show up and work. That's the backing you want.
How GameSir Pocket Taco Mobile Controller on Kickstarter Destroys Alternatives
Touchscreen gaming (free) creates slipping thumbs, blocked views, and constant mis-inputs ruining gameplay. Full-size mobile controllers ($50-$100) deliver complete controls but sacrifice portability being too bulky for everyday carry. Backbone-style controllers ($100+) offer premium quality but lock you into specific ecosystems and demand luxury pricing. Clip-on controllers ($30-$60) add bulk and complexity while still requiring analog stick navigation. The GameSir Pocket Taco mobile controller on Kickstarter at just $30 delivers ultra-portable 62.2g design with intuitive D-pad and ABXY controls optimized for retro gaming, instant-on power activation, universal Bluetooth connectivity, soft silicone phone protection, 600mAh long-lasting battery, built-in keyboard mode for customization, and proven GameSir quality from decade-long gaming peripheral expertise. It's gaming freedom that actually fits your pocket and your lifestyle at a price that makes premium controllers look absurdly overpriced.
FAQs about GameSir Pocket Taco
Does it work with iPhone or just Android?
Pocket Taco uses universal Bluetooth connectivity working with Android phones and other compatible Bluetooth platforms. Check compatibility for your specific device.
Can I play modern 3D games without analog sticks?
Pocket Taco is optimized for retro and classic-style games using D-pad controls. Modern 3D games requiring dual analog sticks aren't the target use case.
How do I turn it on and off?
Unfold it and it powers on instantly. Fold it closed and it automatically shuts down. No buttons, no menus, zero friction.
Will the clamp scratch my phone?
No, Pocket Taco uses soft silicone pads in the clamp area specifically protecting your phone from scratches and pressure marks during gameplay.
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
The 600mAh battery provides hours of continuous gameplay, perfect for long commutes, travel sessions, or extended gaming breaks without needing to recharge.
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