The Quickshot II joystick is back, but can now be used by anyone as it now features USB and microswitches, not to mention the original suction cups underneath. It’s taking pre-orders for $39, and will be released on January 30: https://www.amazon.com/THEQUICKSHOT-II-PC/

For gamers who grew up in the 1980s and early 1990s, the name Quickshot II evokes memories of joysticks clutched during marathon sessions on Commodore 64s, ZX Spectrums, and Amigas. Its distinctive silhouette — a tall stick crowned by a red fire button and supported by a sturdy base — was as much a part of the experience as the games themselves.

Now, that familiar design is being given a second life in the form of the The QUICKSHOT II USB Joystick, a revitalised controller aimed at bringing retro-inspired play into the modern era.

Quickshot II USB joystick controller

Unlike its 8-bit ancestors that relied on legacy connectors, this updated joystick adopts a universally compatible USB-A interface, making it plug-and-play with contemporary PCs, many consoles, and popular retro-gaming systems. Built around an all-microswitch architecture for precise directional input and button presses, it combines nostalgia with functional improvements that suit both classic emulation and new gameplay alike.

The design retains several hallmark features of its forebears — an ergonomic handle shaped for comfort during extended sessions, suction cups on the base to anchor it to a desk, and an auto-fire switch for rapid action. Its eight buttons, including dual fire triggers and six additional action or function inputs, offer greater flexibility than the two-button layouts typical of its origins, enabling the joystick to handle a broader range of genres and titles.

Released in early 2026 at a modest price point, The QUICKSHOT II gaming controller isn’t just an exercise in nostalgia. It represents a thoughtful blend of retro aesthetic and contemporary usability — a joystick that can satisfy both seasoned enthusiasts seeking a tangible reminder of their first gaming experiences and newer players curious about the tactile charm of classic controls.