Vectorlink [Vectrex]

I recently received the Vectorlink adapter for my beloved Vectrex console—and I’m thrilled! 🎉 I can finally use modern controllers—both wired and wireless—with the Vectrex. In this post, I share my first impressions and offer recommendations for compatible controllers.

🧩 What is Vectorlink?

Vectorlink is a versatile joystick adapter developed by Brett Walach of PlayVectrex.com. It enables the use of a wide range of high-quality wireless and wired controllers with the Vectrex console. The adapter features a connector similar to that of the Nintendo Wii Remote, making it compatible with a multitude of controllers. It was primarily designed for the 8BitDo SNES/NES Classic Bluetooth Retro Receiver (also known as the BT dongle) and the 8BitDo Arcade Stick.

🎮 Supported controllers

The BT dongle can connect wirelessly to a wide range of controllers:

• 8BitDo Arcade Stick
• 8BitDo N30 Arcade Stick
• 8BitDo Lite
• 8BitDo Zero 2
• 8BitDo SN30 Pro
• Xbox Series X Elite 2
• WiiMote
• Wii U Pro
• Nintendo Switch Joy-Con
• Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
• PS3 DualShock
• PS4 DualShock und Pro

It should be noted that all wireless controllers operate exclusively in digital mode, even if they feature an analog thumbstick. This is because the BT dongle, RF dongle, and similar devices were originally designed for use with the SNES Classic, which does not have analog thumbsticks. Vectorlink, on the other hand, offers support for analog controllers.

🔌 Wired controllers

For the use of analog functions, the following wired controllers can be connected directly to the Vectorlink:

• Wii Nunchuck
• Wii Classic
• Wii Classic Pro
• PlayStation 1 or 2 (with Mayflash PS2 to Wii adapter)

These controllers offer precise analog control and are particularly suitable for games that benefit from such input.

⚙️ Vectorlink Premium Features

In addition to wireless digital and wired analog support for the Vectrex, Vectorlink offers several high-quality features:

• Dynamic Filter: Analog sticks and accelerometers can be processed through a player-adjustable dynamic filter that improves stability and control.
• Auto-fire: The auto-fire rates for each button can be programmed in-game by pressing the button at the desired frequency. Even with auto-fire enabled, manual shots can be fired with extreme precision.
• Button Mapping: Up to 8 control commands can be mapped to up to 8 buttons without additional software. (playvectrex.com)

🛠️ Controller recommendations

Kabellose Controller:

• 8BitDo Arcade Stick
• 8BitDo SNES Classic controller with its own 2.4GHz RF dongle (no configuration required)
• Hori Wireless Fighting Commander with Bluetooth dongle

Wired controllers:

• Wii Nunchuck
• Wii Classic
• Wii Classic Pro
• PlayStation 1 or 2 (with Mayflash PS2 to Wii adapter)

📦 Scope of delivery and availability

The Vectorlink kit contains:

• Vectrex Vectorlink Adapter
• BT Dongle (8BitDo Retro Receiver)
• Micro-USB cable
• Color-printed box
• Random extra (sticker, magnet, or similar)

The price is $69.77 USD plus shipping costs. Currently, there is a limit of one copy per customer.

Conclusion

Vectorlink is an impressive adapter that brings the Vectrex console into the modern era. The ability to use a wide range of controllers, combined with advanced features like dynamic filtering and programmable autofire, makes it an essential accessory for any Vectrex enthusiast. I am thrilled with the new gaming experience and can highly recommend Vectorlink!

You can find further information and ordering options on the official website: PlayVectrex.com.