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Nintendo 64 controller facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Nintendo 64 controller was the main way to play games on the Nintendo 64 console. People sometimes called it the "Trident" because of its unique shape, which looked a bit like a three-pronged fork. This controller had many buttons and sticks to help players control their games.

A Unique Design

The Nintendo 64 controller stood out because of its unusual shape. It had three "prongs" or handles. This design allowed players to hold the controller in different ways, depending on the game they were playing.

Parts of the Controller

The controller was packed with features:

  • Analog Stick: This was a new feature for Nintendo. It allowed players to move characters smoothly in 3D worlds, like walking slowly or running fast.
  • D-pad (Directional Pad): This is a cross-shaped button for moving characters or selecting options. It was useful for older 2D-style games or menu navigation.
  • C-buttons: These four yellow buttons were shaped like a "C" and were mainly used to control the camera view in 3D games.
  • A and B Buttons: These were the main action buttons. The large green "A" button was often for primary actions, and the red "B" button for secondary actions.
  • Start Button: This button was usually in the middle and used to pause games or open menus.
  • Shoulder Buttons (L and R): Located on the top of the controller, these were used for various actions like aiming or strafing.
  • Z-trigger: Found on the bottom of the middle handle, this trigger was often used for actions like shooting or grabbing.

How to Hold It

Nintendo designed the controller so players could hold it in different ways. This was because some games used the analog stick more, while others used the D-pad.

  • Middle and Right: Many players held the middle handle with their left hand to use the analog stick, and the right handle with their right hand for the A, B, and C buttons. This was great for 3D adventure games.
  • Left and Right: For games that used the D-pad more, players could hold the left handle with their left hand and the right handle with their right hand. This was similar to how older controllers were held.
N64-Controller-in-Hand
One of several ways listed by Nintendo for the player to hold the controller.

Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Control de Nintendo 64 para niños

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