Retro PS5 controllers may seem odd, but they pay homage to the days of older gaming. Although the Dualsense controller already has various colors, the custom versions provide great options. Furthermore, the official Sony lineup can be finite in its offerings for players to choose from.
Therefore, we have created a list of different options for some of the best retro-inspired custom PS5 controllers. Whether you are a fan of see-through designs or inspirations of older consoles, this list has great options. While the custom designs can be pricier than other counterparts, the cost is worth it. Even more so when it comes to standing out from the crowd. Below, players can see the various choices that are the best to make when looking at retro designs for the Dualsense.
1. Atomic Purple by KILLSCREEN
Players wanting to pay tribute to the Nintendo 64 should look no further than the Atomic Purple design for the PS5 Dualsense. Taking on the classic purple, see-through look, this inspiration is one of the top choices. Furthermore, the makers, KILLSCREEN, offer different choices of buttons to further customize the design. Additionally, even the Dualsense’s touchpad is also clear, providing a unique look at what lies beneath.
- Price: $139.00 – $169.00
- Ships in: 1-3 days, 30 days if on backorder.
2. Emerald by KILLSCREEN
The Emerald retro design by KILLSCREEN offers another classic look from the Nintendo 64 age. Players may also recognize it from the PlayStation 2 days of the Dualshock 2. The green, clear color allows players to see all of the internal workings of the Dualsense. The unique look is a classic in the gaming industry and something that we likely won’t see from Sony soon, if at all.
Additionally, the work on it is carefully done and looks to not be rushed, meaning it is not cheaply made or with little to no effort. Players can also choose to play more to be able to add different styles of button action. This allows for the feel of inputs to be different from the Dualsense, some even providing a more click feel to their buttons.
- Price: $139.00 – $169.00
- Ships in: 3-4 weeks.
3. Gamecube Design for PS5 by GameCosmos
Fans of one the Nintendo’s strongest console generations can pick up this design. The Gamecube provided titles like Smash Bros. Melee and Super Mario Strikers. If you like the way that accessory looked, this retro look suits you. Available on eBay from GameCosmos, the PS5 controller has all of the face-shape buttons greyed out, and both stick in the appropriate colors from the Gamecube.
As a custom design, the look is incredible and players look to get their money’s worth from the cosmetic look of it. Keep in mind that it is likely the internal structure is all still the same. Furthermore, it is only the buttons and plates that have been painted and designed.
- Price: $179.99
- Ships in: 1-2 weeks.
4. PlayStation 3 Controller (DualShock 3) by The Game Changers
The Dualshock 3 controller was the official accessory for the PlayStation 3 at its launch. The design by The Game Changers aims to bring back the classic controller to the PS5. While it may seem like a simple, black design in color. It is far from it, the design also offers the grey undertones on the bottom parts of the Dualsense. Having this puts it closer to the original controller and gives it that extra flair that players remember from the Dualshock 3.
The design is painted and designed on a brand-new Dualsense, meaning consumers don’t have to worry about issues with any buttons. Furthermore, if any stick drift issues arise, the designers offer a cheaper option to fix the problem.
- Price: $149.00 on sale ($160.00 for regular pricing)
- Ships in: N/A
5. PlayStation Retro Color by Colorware
Another great option to choose from is the design of the original PlayStation controller. This retro custom controller provides a unique look for those who wish to experience a current-generation experience with the console that started it all. Designed by Colorware, this controller gives matte grey tones with classic faded colors of the shape buttons to match.
Putting a unique twist on it is the fact that the PS button is blacked out. Having this creates a more fluid design overall to mimic the original controller design back in the day. As Sony preps to release their official version, it is likely to sell out quickly due to scalpers and those with preorders. Therefore, this option provides an optimal alternative in this case.
- Price: $174
- Ships in: 4 weeks.
6. PlayStation Retro by Gamenetics
Players looking to pick up a classic PlayStation design but are unsure of Colorware can look into Gamenetics’ offering. The controller features a similar matte grey look with classic button cosmetics. However, Gamenetics also provides the ability to add the Dualshock 4 buttons from the PlayStation 4. These replacements do add to the cost; however, players can choose to switch them out if they wish to change things up.
As many regard the previous controller generation as a favorite, they can make the ultimate design for players. As a bonus, the controller also comes in a case that players can use to keep the controller safe and clean.
- Price: $164.95 on sale ($169.95 with regular pricing)
- Ships in: 2-3 weeks.
That is everything to know about the best choices for retro-inspired custom controllers for the PS5. Each one offers unique looks and art styles. While they pay tribute to other consoles, they give a retro feel that many have missed out on before.
Furthermore, some of them are even better looking than their official peers designed by Sony. The company is slowly putting out more color options for the Dualsense controller on PS5. However, until we see more selections, these custom designs are the best ones for players to make.
