Have you ever wondered why some gamers prefer using fight sticks over traditional game controllers? In the world of fighting games, the fight stick is a popular choice among enthusiasts, and the Vewlix layout is the standard many fight stick fans swear by.
In this article, we’ll explore everything there is to know about the Vewlix layout, including its history, advantages, and how to build your own Vewlix fight stick. So, let’s dive right in!
The Vewlix layout
What is the Vewlix layout?
The Vewlix layout is a button configuration used in fight sticks that mimics the layout found on the Vewlix arcade cabinet.
This layout typically consists of eight buttons arranged in two rows, with the top row slightly angled to follow the natural curve of a player’s fingers.
Origins of the Vewlix layout
The Vewlix layout can be traced back to the Vewlix arcade cabinet, designed and manufactured by the Taito Corporation in 2007.
Taito, a Japanese company with a long history in the arcade and video game industry, aimed to create a modern and ergonomic cabinet that would appeal to gamers and arcade operators.
The Vewlix cabinet was designed by Kenji Sasaki, a Taito employee who had previously worked on designing the iconic Astro City arcade cabinet.
Sasaki’s design philosophy for the Vewlix cabinet focused on three key elements: ergonomics, aesthetics, and functionality.
Regarding ergonomics, Sasaki wanted to create a layout that would be comfortable for players during extended gaming sessions.
The Vewlix layout was born from this desire, featuring eight buttons arranged in two rows, with the top row slightly angled to follow the natural curve of a player’s fingers.
This design made it easier for players to reach and press the buttons without straining their hands, reducing fatigue and discomfort.
The Vewlix layout also took inspiration from previous arcade cabinet button layouts, such as the Capcom CPS-3 arcade system’s button configuration. By incorporating elements from these earlier designs, the Vewlix layout provided a familiar and intuitive interface for experienced arcade gamers.
Functionality was another key aspect of the Vewlix layout. The eight-button design allowed for a high level of compatibility with a wide range of fighting games, as players could easily map the buttons to various in-game functions.
This versatility made the Vewlix layout ideal for arcade operators, as it could accommodate a diverse selection of games within a single cabinet.
The aesthetics of the Vewlix cabinet were also groundbreaking at the time. The sleek, modern design featured a slim profile, a large high-definition LCD screen, and customizable artwork options.
This visually appealing design set the Vewlix cabinet apart from its bulkier, older counterparts and contributed to its popularity in Japanese arcades.
Due to the success and widespread adoption of the Vewlix arcade cabinet, the Vewlix layout became synonymous with quality and performance in the world of fight sticks.
As a result, manufacturers of fight sticks quickly adopted the Vewlix layout as a standard for their products, and it remains a popular choice for gamers and enthusiasts.
Advantages of the Vewlix layout
Ergonomics
One of the main benefits of the Vewlix layout is its ergonomic design. The diagonal button arrangement allows players to comfortably rest their fingers on the buttons, reducing strain and fatigue during extended play sessions.
Compatibility
The Vewlix layout is compatible with a wide range of fighting games, as it includes eight buttons that can be mapped to various functions. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for players who enjoy multiple titles within the genre.
Customization
Fight stick enthusiasts love personalizing their gear, and the Vewlix layout provides ample room for customization. Players can easily swap out buttons, joysticks, and even the artwork on their fight sticks to make them truly unique.
Popular Vewlix fight stick models
Several fight stick manufacturers offer Vewlix layout models, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences. Some popular options include the Qanba Obsidian, Razer Panthera Evo, and the Hori Real Arcade Pro series.
These fight sticks often come with premium components and additional features, such as touchpad controls, customizable artwork, and LED lighting.
Tips for using a Vewlix fight stick
- Find your grip: Experiment with different grips to find the one that feels most comfortable and allows for precise control of the joystick.
- Practice: Like any new skill, mastering a fight stick takes practice. Spend time in training mode to get a feel for the stick and build muscle memory.
- Button mapping: Make sure to map your buttons in a way that makes sense for your preferred fighting game, and consider using button combinations for advanced techniques.
Conclusion
The Vewlix layout has become the gold standard for fight sticks, offering ergonomic design, compatibility, and customization options. Building your own Vewlix fight stick can be a fun and rewarding project, or you can choose from several high-quality pre-built models.
Whichever path you choose, mastering a Vewlix fight stick can elevate your fighting game performance to new heights.
FAQs
- Why is the Vewlix layout popular? The Vewlix layout is popular due to its ergonomic design, compatibility with a wide range of fighting games, and customization options.
- Can I use a Vewlix fight stick on any gaming platform? Yes, you can use a Vewlix fight stick on most gaming platforms, provided that the PCB (printed circuit board) is compatible with your console or PC.
- Do I need to be an expert to build my own Vewlix fight stick? Building a Vewlix fight stick requires some basic knowledge of electronics and wiring, but many resources are available online to help guide you through the process.
- What is the difference between Sanwa and Seimitsu components? Sanwa and Seimitsu are reputable Japanese brands producing high-quality fight stick components. However, Sanwa components are generally known for their smooth and responsive feel, while Seimitsu components are known for their slightly stiffer and more tactile feedback.
- Can I customize the appearance of my Vewlix fight stick? Yes, many fight stick cases allow for customization, such as swapping out the artwork or adding LED lighting.
Sources
- “The Rise of the Fight Stick” by The Verge – https://www.theverge.com/2015/2/5/7975425/fight-stick-history-joystick-controller
- “The Vewlix Arcade Cabinet: A Look at Its History, Design, and Impact” by Arcade Heroes – https://arcadeheroes.com/2021/02/15/the-vewlix-arcade-cabinet-a-look-at-its-history-design-and-impact/
