Nostalgia is a powerful force in the modern games industry. While tech often obsesses over the future, the new version of the legendary QuickShot II proves that sometimes, we just want to go back to the early 80s. The plasticky joystick—originally known more for being affordable and looking like a fighter jet control than for its surgical precision—is back, flaws and all.
The Legend Reborn
The new QuickShot II, released by Retro Games and Plaion Replai, is an almost exact replica of the original. It maintains the same ergonomic shaft, large red buttons, and—most importantly—the suckers on the base to keep it stuck to your computer table during intense sessions of Green Beret.
While the “feel” remains faithful, the designers have included several tasteful modern updates:
- Independently Configurable Buttons: The two fire buttons on the stick can now be mapped separately, a dream come true for those who wanted to laser and bomb simultaneously in Skramble.
- Modern Connectivity: The USB cable allows it to plug directly into a PC or any of the modern “mini” console remakes like the TheC64 or the Spectrum.
- Microswitches: The stick now features microswitches for a satisfying “click” upon movement, though the fire buttons retain their classic, soft-click nostalgic feel.
Performance: Authentic “Flaws”
If you are looking for a professional-grade flight stick, this isn’t it. The stick still has a lot of “travel,” meaning you have to push it quite far to register movement. This makes it authentically unsuitable for “joystick-waggling” sports titles like Daley Thompson’s Decathlon, where aggressive movement often led to broken plastic and bruised egos.
Tested with Steam, the joystick performed well after calibration, making it a joy to play classic shooters like Truxton. However, some users may find difficulty configuring it with advanced emulation platforms like RetroArch.
The Verdict
The QuickShot II was never the best joystick—it was the one we could afford. It looked cool, it felt like an arcade cabinet, and it was hardwired into the memories of a generation. This remake respects that spirit entirely.
“Every time I see it sitting there beside my hi-tech PC and big HD monitor, I smile. It’s good to have you back, old friend, with all your flaws and shortcomings.” — Keith Stuart
Price: £30.95 (Available Now)
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