For enthusiasts eager to dive into Guitar Hero 2 (GH2), a common point of confusion arises with controller compatibility, specifically concerning Playstation 2 Guitar Hero Controllers. It’s a frequent misconception that a Playstation 2 controller would seamlessly work with GH2, given the game’s title and console generation. However, GH2, unlike its predecessor Guitar Hero 1 (GH1), presents a unique compatibility quirk that necessitates the use of a Playstation 1 (PS1) controller for a DIY guitar setup. This guide clarifies why your Playstation 2 Guitar Hero controller might not function as expected with GH2 and provides a detailed walkthrough on utilizing a PS1 controller to build a compatible Guitar Hero guitar.
Understanding the GH2 Controller Compatibility Conundrum
The core issue lies in GH2’s specific requirement for a digital controller with analog sticks. While the Playstation 2 controller is indeed analog, GH2’s input recognition system demands a signal structure more akin to the digital nature of the Playstation 1 controller in certain aspects. For Guitar Hero 1, this distinction is irrelevant, allowing for successful guitar modifications using a PS2 pad. However, when it comes to GH2 and subsequent versions that share the same controller input logic, a Playstation 2 Guitar Hero controller will not be recognized for essential in-game functions. This peculiarity forces players seeking a DIY controller solution for GH2 to turn to the older Playstation 1 controller as the viable foundation.
Building Your GH2 Compatible Guitar Hero Controller with a PS1 Pad
To create a functional Guitar Hero controller for GH2, leveraging a Playstation 1 pad is crucial. The following steps outline the wiring configuration required, using a Typhoon 3rd party PS1 pad as an example, though the principles apply broadly to most PS1 controllers.
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Digital Pad (D-pad) Configuration: Solder the left d-pad in a permanently pressed state. This crucial step signals to the Playstation 2 console that a guitar controller is connected, unlocking the guitar functionality within the game. In-game, pressing this left d-pad will typically open the tutorial menu, confirming its correct setup.
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Ground (GND): Establish a common ground by utilizing one of the many GND outlets on the PS1 controller board. This ground connection is essential for all button and switch connections.
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Strumming Mechanism:
- Connect the up d-pad input to your strum up switch.
- Connect the down d-pad input to your strum down switch.
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Star Power Activation:
- Utilize the L2 button contacts for motion sensor (star power) activation. The PS1 controller typically offers two outlets for L2.
- Alternatively, select button can also be used for star power activation.
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Essential Game Functions:
- Start button is vital for game navigation, enabling pausing and accessing the in-game menu.
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Fret Buttons Wiring:
- Square button corresponds to the orange fret button. Note that some PS1 pads might lack a dedicated solder pad for the square button, requiring careful soldering.
- R2 button is assigned to the green fret button.
- Cross (X) button is for the blue fret button.
- Circle button is for the red fret button.
- Triangle button is for the yellow fret button.
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Whammy Bar Implementation:
- The Y-axis of the left analog stick is utilized for the whammy bar. Connect the whammy bar potentiometer as a trimmer between GND and Ucc (Voltage Common Collector).
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Voltage Source (Ucc): Identify and utilize a Ucc point on the PS1 controller board to provide power for the whammy bar potentiometer circuit.
Alt text: DIY Playstation 1 Guitar Hero controller wiring diagram showcasing solder points for fret buttons, strum bar, whammy bar, and star power, essential for Guitar Hero 2 compatibility.
Note: For a cleaner build, consider removing the rumble motors from the PS1 controller, as they serve no function in Guitar Hero games.
Conclusion: PS1 Controller – Your Key to GH2 Guitar Hero Fun
While it may seem counterintuitive to use an older Playstation 1 controller for a Playstation 2 game like Guitar Hero 2, it is the necessary approach for DIY controller modifications. Understanding the specific controller input requirements of GH2 clarifies why Playstation 2 Guitar Hero controllers fall short, and why the digital-analog characteristics of a PS1 pad are essential. By following this wiring guide, you can successfully build a responsive and fully functional Guitar Hero controller, ensuring you can rock out on Guitar Hero 2 to your heart’s content.
