The Dreamcast Controller just leveled up: 8BitMods BitLink DC brings wireless freedom, rumble and more
Even after Sega exited the home console space with its last release, the Sega Dreamcast, retro gamers, modders, and companies are still keeping the beloved console alive with some quality-of-life upgrades. The latest add-on comes from 8BitMods, which unveiled the BitLink DC, allowing retro gamers to use their Sega Dreamcast controllers wirelessly, even on Mac and PC.
The BitLink DC Kit comes after the company’s success with the VMU Pro memory card upgrade. The BitLink DC includes an adapter that slots into the second VMU port after a bit of tinkering, and the dongle acts as a receiver. Now, retro gamers can enjoy authentic Dreamcast titles like Crazy Taxi, Sonic Adventure, and Shenmue from their couches.
So, how does the BitLink DC Kit work? The BitLink DC Adapter slots into the Dreamcast controller’s second VMU port like an old rumble pack. You need to remove a few screws and connect an included cable to the internal JST port, and that’s pretty much it.
Once you install the BitLink Adapter, your Dreamcast controller officially goes wireless. It works over a 2.4 GHz connection via the included dongle and pairs with PCs and MacBooks via Bluetooth LE when you’re gaming in an emulator.
To make things more interesting, 8BitMods added some extra juice to the BitLink DC Adapter. It features a built-in rumble motor for enhanced haptic feedback, an accelerometer and gyroscope for motion controls, and up to four virtual memory cards.
The BitLink DC Adapter also packs a 2,200 mAh battery that can charge a slotted VMU Pro and features a USB-C port to charge itself or to connect to a wired gaming setup.
The BitLink DC dongle slots into the Dreamcast’s controller port and acts as a hub, supporting up to four Bluetooth LE controllers, keyboards, and even mice for playing some homebrew games or emulating other titles.
Complementing the list of features, it also includes a built-in web interface that lets you remap buttons, manage memory cards, change LED colors, and update firmware from your browser.
The BitLink DC Adapter and dongle will be available in white and smoke black and will work with original Dreamcast controllers, the Arcade Stick, and third-party controllers like Retro Fighters’ StrikerDC. The dongle alone currently costs £26.99, while the full BitLink DC Adapter and dongle kit costs £69.98.
Pre-orders have started on the 8BitMods website, with the company yet to announce shipping dates.
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