Hardware
This section lists train controllers compatible with train simulation software and other software, grouped by type. Technical details are also provided, if they are known.
Console controllers
Controllers for consoles which use a proprietary non-USB connector and usually pose as standard controllers from their corresponding console.
| Name | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Two handle controller (Sony PlayStation) | December 18, 1997 | |
| Two handle controller (Sega Saturn) | October 1, 1998 | |
| Mamecon (Sony PlayStation) | March 11, 1999 | |
| One handle controller (Sony PlayStation) | March 18, 1999 | |
| Two handle controller (Nintendo 64) | July 30, 1999 | |
| Two handle controller (Sega Dreamcast) | January 20, 2000 |
Game port controllers
Controllers for Microsoft Windows which use a game port.
| Name | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Two handle controller (PC game port) | March 18, 1999 |
Nintendo Wii controllers
Controllers for the Nintendo Wii which use a Wii expansion cable and connect to a Wiimote’s extension port.
| Name | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shinkansen controller (Nintendo Wii) | March 1, 2007 |
Serial port controllers
Controllers for Microsoft Windows which use a DE-9 serial port.
| Name | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Master Controller (PC) | March 4, 1998 | |
| Master Controller II (PC) | December 17, 1999 |
Standalone controllers
Self-contained controllers with software installed in them. Instead of connecting to a PC or console, they can be connected directly to a TV or monitor via video output.
| Name | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Densha de GO! Plug and Play | February 8, 2018 | |
| Densha de GO! Plug and Play 2 | December 7, 2023 |
USB controllers
Controllers which use a USB-A connector.
| Name | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Two handle controller "Type 2" (Sony PlayStation 2) | March 15, 2001 | |
| Two handle controller (PC) | June 15, 2001 | |
| Shinkansen controller (Sony PlayStation 2) | September 20, 2001 | |
| Ryojōhen controller (Sony PlayStation 2) | July 25, 2002 | |
| Train Mascon (Sony PlayStation 2) | October 31, 2002 | |
| RailDriver Desktop Train Cab Controller (PC) | December 1, 2002 | |
| Ryojōhen controller (PC) | June 5, 2003 | |
| Multi Train Controller (Sony PlayStation 2) | December 18, 2003 | |
| One handle controller (PC) | December 17, 2004 | |
| Sangying one handle controller (PC) | February 28, 2018 | |
| One handle controller / ZUIKI Mascon (Nintendo Switch) | August 5, 2021 |