# Retro Tablet Gaming Controllers The iCade 8-Bitty Turns the iPad Into an NES By Michael Hines | Published 2012-02-15 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/icade-8-bitty References: [thinkgeek](http://www.thinkgeek.com/electronics/retro-gaming/ecea/) & [thinkgeek](http://www.thinkgeek.com/electronics/retro-gaming/ecea/) The [iPad's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo-apple-support) transformation to an 8-bit gaming console is nearly complete with the release of the iCade 8-bitty. The iCade 8-bitty is a gaming remote designed by ThinkGeekto be used to play the retro 8-bit games available on the iPad and [iPhone](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gamesir-g8-plus-mfi). The controller can also be used to play newer games, and features enough controls to operate even the most complicated mobile game. The iCade 8-bitty has a D-Pad (directional pad), four face buttons, 'Select' and 'Start' buttons and two shoulder buttons. The 8-bitty is made using open source software. This ensures that game developers will be able to make their games compatible with the iCade 8-bitty no matter how futuristic and complicated they are. The iBitty is priced at $24 and is currently out of stock. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.0/10 - Popularity: 23% | Activity: 29% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Retro Gaming Controllers:** The iCade 8-bitty sets an opportunity for companies to create and improve upon gaming remotes for retro games. - **Mobile Gaming Experience:** The iCade 8-bitty opens doors for game developers to create games that feature more complicated controls. - **Open-source Gaming Software:** The iCade 8-bitty highlights the demand for open-source gaming software that allows developers to create compatible games. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Tech Accessories:** The rise in retro gaming affords tech accessory companies a chance to create more gaming remotes. - **Mobile Gaming:** The use of an external gaming remote sets an opportunity for mobile gaming companies to create more complex games. - **Gaming Software:** The open-source software market is expanding, giving gaming software companies the opportunity to create versatile programs that can work with multiple devices. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Slim Tabletop Gaming Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo-arcade-controller.md) - [Retro Audio Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-cube-2.md) - [Compact Gamepad Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/compact-gamepad.md) - [Micro Smartphone Gamepad Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo-mobile-clip.md) - [Tablet-Friendly Gaming Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/razer-kishi-ultra.md) - [Mappable Mobile Gamer Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ultimate-mobile-gaming-controller.md) - [Nostalgic Handheld Gaming Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/my-arcade-gamestation-portable.md) - [Accessible Gamer Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo-ultimate-c-24g-wireless-controller.md) - [Wireless Gaming Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo.md)