Session Details

Speaker(s): Thomas Schnell

Date: February 04, 2026

Video Recording

Presentation Slides

Session Abstract

The Nintendo 64 controller is one of the most iconic and unusual pieces of gaming hardware ever made. Its three-handled design has always been awkward to use, so I set out to create my own version. This presentation explores the process of modeling a manufacturable 3D CAD design using a 3D scanned reference of a hand-sculpted clay model, and how that workflow brought my custom two-handled Nintendo 64 controller to life. It’s a blend of hands-on craft, SOLIDWORKS modeling techniques, and a little bit of gamer wish-fulfillment.

Design Industrial Design Consumer Packaged Goods - Retail Industrial Equipment (inc. Fabricated Metal & Plastic Products) SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Plastics SOLIDWORKS Visualize