What is it?

Pico2Maple is a USB/BT controller adapter for the Sega Dreamcast built around the Raspberry Pi Pico 2 W. A custom Maple Bus implementation emulates several Dreamcast accessories allowing the use of USB/BT gamepads on the Dreamcast.

I have done quite a lot of personal testing and stand by the features listed below. However, I am very interested to hear feedback and input from more Dreamcast enthusiasts. In particular, I am looking to incorporate support for a wider range of USB devices as well as hear about any usability or game compatibility issues.

If all that sounds good, read on!

Pico2Maple also acts as a VMU - the Dreamcast memory card - with 10 separate memory slots. VMU data is saved directly to the Pico's built-in flash storage or a microSD card for easy backups. A microSD card is recommended for the best experience.

A built-in OLED display shows what would normally be shown on a real VMU while plugged into a controller during gameplay. Please note: this device does not emulate VMU mini-games; it only replicates VMU memory and display functions.

In addition to gamepads, Pico2Maple will also translate USB keyboards and mice to their Dreamcast equivalents for playing games like Typing of the Dead and Quake 3 without needing to buy original hardware.

The enclosure is 3D printed in either white or black PETG. Four m2 screws hold everything together allowing for non-destructive disassembly.

Why did you make it?

This started as a project to get familiar with the Dreamcast's Maple Bus, and to get the Steam Controller working on the system, but grew over time to support many more features. Eventually, it reached the point where I felt that others may be interested in having something similar for themselves.

Key Features

• Use USB gamepads, keyboards, and mice on the Sega Dreamcast
• Use wireless BT gamepads on the Sega Dreamcast
• Several built-in gamepad layouts: standard, all controls (enables the second joystick and C/Z buttons), and Twin Sticks
• VMU data saving directly to dongle or microSD card with 10 separate VMU slots (microSD recommended)
• Backup, inspect, and manage save files from the microSD card on a computer using VMU Explorer
• Integrated OLED display replicates what would normally be shown on a VMU plugged into a controller
• Additional information displayed on OLED such as: current VMU slot and storage medium, type of USB/BT device detected, write-in-progress warning
• Custom-designed PCB and 3D-printed enclosure; sized to allow 4 dongles plugged into the same console
• Firmware is easily updated from a PC via drag-and-drop

Supported Devices

For a more detailed breakdown of supported devices, please check out the full device compatibility list.

Below is a list of tested and confirmed working devices:

USB Gamepads

• Sony Playstation DualShock PS3, DualSense PS5 Controllers
• Xbox One, Xbox One Elite, and Xbox Series (3-button version); most Xbox-compatible XInput gamepads should work but I have only tested the ones listed here
• Steam Controller (wireless with dongle only)
• 8BitDo Wireless Dongle (great for connecting a huge variety of other controllers)
• 8BitDo SN30 Pro Xbox Edition

BT Gamepads

• Sony DualSense PS5 Controller
• Xbox Series Wireless Controller (3-button version)
• Nintendo WiiU Pro Controller
• 8BitDo SN30 Pro
• 8BitDo SN30 Pro Xbox Edition

USB Keyboard and Mice

While most HID-compliant USB mice and keyboards should work, there are simply far too many for comprehensive testing.

I recommend simpler keyboards and mice for the best chance at compatibility. Some fancier USB keyboards and mice may report themselves as multiple devices (e.g. a mouse may report as a mouse and a keyboard). Pico2Maple will only use the first valid report it encounters.

Firmware

Firmware updates are available through the Pico2Maple GitHub repository.