joypadgameconsoleZell Interactive's Joypad Game Controller was originally released in mid–2011. As a standalone app, it turned the iPhone into a wireless virtual controller for several Mac and iPad games.

Unfortunately, finding games that worked with the iPhone app was a pain, requiring gamers to visit the Joypad website for a list or to stumble across a compatible app on the App Store.

That changed this week, with the release of the Joypad Game Console. The Game Console turns the iPad into a dashboard that lists all of the Joypad enabled apps. It's like an iOS version of Xbox Live, containing a list of featured games, a list of games that are already installed on the iPad, and a full list of all games that Joypad supports.

Users can tap on one of the apps listed in the Game Console to get more information on it, including an app description, YouTube trailer, and a link to purchase said app on the App Store.

After purchase, the Console can be linked via Wi-Fi to the Joypad Game Controller, which was recently updated with Game Console compatibility and all new skins. The Game Console app can also be connected to the Apple TV so that gamers can play their favorite titles on the big screen.


The Joypad Game Console is a handy addition to the Joypad Game Controller because it's a one stop shop for games. The only downside to both products is the limited game selection, which features just 17 titles.

Joypad Game Console is a free download from the App Store for the iPad. [Direct Link]

Joypad Game Controller is free for the iPhone. [Direct Link]

Top Rated Comments

mcstain Avatar
168 months ago
I believe this is how gaming will be implemented on the Apple TV one day. Imagine four player multiplayer with everyone using their iPhones as controllers.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
APlotdevice Avatar
168 months ago
I fear Apple may quickly pull this because of their new app promoting policy.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Glassed Silver Avatar
168 months ago
I believe this is how gaming will be implemented on the Apple TV one day. Imagine four player multiplayer with everyone using their iPhones as controllers.

Hell no.
iPhone doesn't provide any tactile feedback and left feels just like right.

I'll take a good controller over an iPhone any day. The only advantage would be to be ABLE to use it if you wish to do so, or if the iPhone got some kind of tech that makes it have that feedback and differentiation of buttons.

For an iPad this seems like a sweet idea as it at least solves the problem of covering up the on-screen action with your fingers. :)

Glassed Silver:mac
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Defender2010 Avatar
168 months ago
I can see this being done with the apple tv as well. Maybe even use the iphones as some sort of wiimote.

Perhaps it was really pulled because it was too similar to what Apple will offer next year on Apple TV...
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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