Genki has launched its first custom-designed controller, the Manta, via a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. Featuring a 2.9-inch LCD screen, Raspberry Pi-powered controls, and adjustable TMR thumbsticks, early backers can preorder the device for $189 ahead of an expected $279 retail release.
Inside the Genki Manta Design and Customization Engine
After previously collaborating with 8BitDo on a gamepad, accessory manufacturer Genki is stepping into the controller market with a hardware design built from the ground up. The unorthodox layout positions thumbsticks and buttons above a prominent 2.9-inch LCD screen, giving the device a chunky profile compared to standard gamepads. Rather than requiring a separate phone or desktop companion app, the device relies on MantaOS—an operating system powered by a dedicated Raspberry Pi RP2350 microcontroller).
This onboard operating system handles profiles, remapping, advanced tuning, diagnostics, connection management, dashboards, and apps directly on the device. Players can configure and switch between multiple console, game, and user profiles, adjust thumbstick response and dead zones, increase haptic feedback intensity, and record, edit, and combine multiple button presses into custom macros.
Drift-Resistant Joysticks and Tristage Triggers
Hardware customizability extends to the physical controls. The controller features drift-resistant tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks that glide on a silicone ring with adjustable tension. Players adjust the tension simply by twisting the stick itself, requiring no tools or stick swapping. The face buttons are also analog, allowing users to choose exactly how deep each button needs to travel before a press is registered.
The device introduces what Genki terms tristage triggers.
While high-end controllers typically offer two switchable trigger modes to adjust travel distance for racing or first-person shooter games, the Manta adds a third in-between option optimized for rapid inputs. The company claims this middle setting is engineered for the fastest repeated presses.
Connectivity, Audio, and Developer Tools
Connectivity options span multiple platforms and protocols. The controller supports Switch 1 and Switch 2, PC, Mac, Android, and iOS. Users can connect wirelessly over Bluetooth, plug in an included 2.4GHz USB dongle to mitigate latency, or link directly via a USB-C cable. Wired connections boast up to an 8,000Hz polling rate, while wireless operation runs at 1,000Hz).
Additional hardware features include a proper headphone jack, linear magnetic ram motors in the grips for directional haptic feedback, a 2,600mAh user-replaceable battery, and six extra remappable buttons on the back and shoulders. A dedicated button switches the pad to a keyboard and mouse mode for navigating web browsers on couch-PC setups without reaching for a separate peripheral. Furthermore, an open developer hub dubbed Genki Forge provides hardware documentation, reference apps with source code, and tools for loading community creations.
Kickstarter Launch Tiers and Market Positioning
The crowdfunding campaign marks Genki’s ninth crowdfunded release. While backing hardware campaigns carries inherent project risks, the manufacturer maintains an established delivery track record. Early backers on Kickstarter can preorder the controller at a discounted price of $189, while full retail availability is slated for $279.
