Physical linear-encoder controller used as an analog-feeling input device for playing a 2D game on a computer interface.
Overview
This controller project uses a linear encoder as a physical input mechanism for a 2D computer game. Instead of a conventional keyboard or joystick, player movement is driven by measured linear position or displacement. The demo shows the hardware controller interacting with a 2D game interface, turning encoder movement into responsive game control.
Specifications
RoleHardware interface and control developer
SensorsLinear encoder
ModulesMicrocontroller interface boardComputer game interface
Encoder motion is read by a microcontroller and mapped into game input. The computer-side game responds to this input as the player controls movement on screen.
Project photos
Linear encoder controller demo with 2D game interface on screen.
Videos
Implementation details
Firmware
Firmware reads linear encoder movement, converts position or step changes into game-control events, and sends control data to the computer/game interface.
Components / BOM
Linear encoder, Microcontroller board, Game interface computer, Prototype wiring
Engineering challenges
The key challenge was translating a physical linear measurement into intuitive, low-latency movement for a 2D game.
Solutions
Built a simple hardware-to-game loop where encoder movement becomes direct control feedback in the game interface.
Results & metrics
Demo confirms the controller can drive gameplay on a computer screen using the linear encoder input.
Future improvements
Add calibration, adjustable sensitivity, USB HID mode, game profiles, and a mechanical enclosure for the encoder mechanism.
