Downloads

• Download the latest RetroSpy release. It contains the desktop application and controller firmware.
• Download the Arduino IDE only if you need to program your own Arduino board.

Supported Consoles

• Microsoft Xbox
• Microsoft Xbox 360
• PlayStation 3
• PlayStation 4
• Nintendo Switch
• Sony PlayStation Classic
• The C64 Mini
• Neo Geo Mini
• Sega Genesis Mini
• NEC TurboGrafx-16 Mini

Known Issues

• Memory cards and the Xbox Communicator are not currently supported for original Xbox on the controller being spied on.
• Xbox currently requires RetroSpy to be closed and reopened after loading a game from the dashboard.
• Xbox 360 requires a specific startup sequence to correctly work, which is outlined later.
• Some Non-Pro Switch controllers do not seem to work 100% of the time. Closing and restarting RetroSpy will usually get them connected if you encounter a problem.
• Connecting to the PS3 is a bit tricky, sometimes it takes a few tries.
• The ‘Y’ button must be held down when powering on, or connecting, an 8BitDo SN30 Pro USB in order for it to be recognized by the Switch.

Choosing Your Hardware

The easiest approach:

• Purchase a complete RetroSpy Vision USB from here.

For the DIY approach:

There are two hardware solutions for using RetroSpy with USB-based controllers/consoles. Each has its own pros and cons.

Option 1: Beaglebone Black/Green

Pros

• Requires no additional configuration once the firmware is loaded.

Cons

• Requires a wired ethernet connection on the same network as the display computer.

Option 2: Beaglebone Green Wireless

Pros

• No wired Ethernet connection required, wireless connectivty on the same network as the display computer is required instead.

Cons

• The initial setup of the wireless networking is currently a highly manual error prone process.

Make Your Choice

My personal conclusion is that if you have the wired Ethernet connection go with the Beaglebone Black because it is a simpler solution, but choose what fits your situation the best.

• Click here for Option 1.
• Click here for Option 2.

Program the Arduino

If you purchased a pre-programmed board, skip this section and continue to the RetroSpy application setup.

1. Install the Arduino IDE and connect the Arduino to the computer.
2. Open firmware/firmware.ino from the latest RetroSpy release.
3. In the firmware options, enable the required controller mode. Leave only the mode required by this guide enabled.
4. Select the correct board and serial port in the Arduino IDE.
5. Choose Upload. Wait for the IDE to report that the upload completed successfully.

Use the RetroSpy application

1. Connect the programmed board and power on the console or controller adapter.
2. Launch the RetroSpy desktop application from the latest release.
3. Select the serial port used by the board.
4. Select RetroSpy USB based Controller Getting Started and choose a skin.
5. Choose Go, then press controller buttons to confirm that the display responds.

Troubleshooting

No serial port appears

Reconnect the USB cable, try a data-capable cable or another USB port, and restart the application.

The display opens but inputs are wrong

Confirm the selected controller type, firmware mode, and every pin connection.

The controller stops working on the console

Disconnect the RetroSpy board and retest the extension cable. Look for a short, reversed connector, or damaged splice.

Still stuck?

Contact RetroSpy support and include the console, controller, board type, firmware mode, and a clear wiring photo.