Have you ever longed to recapture the tactile joy of your favorite childhood handheld? The GameSir Pocket Taco aims to do just that, transforming your iPhone into a vertical gaming device with real buttons and a classic feel that channels the Game Boy era. Compact enough to slip into your pocket and equipped with satisfying physical controls that touchscreens simply can’t replicate, this quirky gadget is quickly becoming a Kickstarter standout, with exclusive early-backer perks disappearing fast. If you’re wondering whether this pocket-sized controller lives up to the hype, read on to discover why gamers are rushing to back it.
The inspiration behind Pocket Taco
The GameSir Pocket Taco is a love letter to the era of pick-up-and-play simplicity. While GameSir has spent over a decade dominating the high-performance market with hall-effect tech and pro-grade console controllers, the inspiration for this project came from looking backward to the original Game Boy.
GameSir realized that modern mobile gaming often feels too cluttered. To fix this, they stripped away the bulky joysticks and complex triggers of modern gamepads, focusing instead on the “pure” layout that started it all: a tactile D-pad and ABXY buttons. By blending that classic beginner-friendly feel with modern shoulder buttons and an ultra-portable “taco” fold, they’ve created a controller designed for “micro-gaming” sessions. Whether you’re a hardcore retro fan or a casual player, the Pocket Taco’s mission is to make high-quality gaming as effortless and portable as the phone in your pocket.
Pocket Taco’s standout features
The Pocket Taco is more than just a mobile controller — it’s a compact, versatile device designed to bring console-like precision and portability to your smartphone gaming. Lightweight, intuitive, and packed with thoughtful features, it gives players the freedom to enjoy their favorite games anytime, anywhere, without compromise. Here’s what makes Pocket Taco stand out:
1. Bluetooth connection for multi-platform freedom
Unlike many mobile controllers that are locked to a specific connector or OS, the Pocket Taco uses universal Bluetooth. This allows for seamless pairing across iOS, Android, and other compatible devices without the need for cables or hardware swaps.
2. Portable and lightweight design
Engineered for the “gaming on the go” lifestyle, the device weighs just 62.2g. It folds into a compact shape that slides into any pocket and comes with a dedicated PP storage case to keep the buttons protected while you travel.
3. Instant on and effortless off
The Pocket Taco eliminates power buttons entirely. It features an intelligent sensor that automatically wakes the controller the moment you unfold it and powers it down when closed, ensuring you can jump into a game in seconds.
4. Built-in keyboard mode
Beyond standard gamepad inputs, the device includes a built-in keyboard mode. This allows for advanced remapping, giving you the flexibility to adapt the controller to games that might not natively support traditional gamepads.
5. Phone-friendly clamp design
To prevent the scratches and pressure marks common with plastic-on-plastic clamps, Pocket Taco is lined with soft silicone pads. This ensures your iPhone or Android remains pristine while staying locked securely in place during intense play.
6. Long-lasting battery life
Despite its tiny footprint, the controller houses a 600mAh battery. This provides roughly 15 hours of continuous gameplay, making it a reliable companion for long commutes or international flights.
To solve the “slippery” feel of touchscreens, Pocket Taco uses a mix of cushioned membrane buttons for the D-pad and ABXY, paired with clicky tactile switches for the triggers and bumpers. Every press feels crisp and deliberate.
8. Uninterrupted gaming
GameSir solved the “dead battery” dilemma with a clever hollow-bottom frame. The design leaves your phone’s charging port completely accessible, so you can plug in a power bank and keep playing without having to remove the controller.
9. Customizable controls via the GameSir app
Users can fine-tune their experience through the GameSir App, which supports button remapping, D-pad diagonal locking, and V-Touch/G-Touch profiles. For quick fixes, several adjustments can even be made via on-the-fly button combinations.
Support Pocket Taco on Kickstarter
The momentum behind the project is undeniable. As of today, the campaign has raised an impressive $72,293, far exceeding its original $10,000 goal, with a community of 2,009 backers already on board. With 23 days remaining, there is still plenty of time to support the project.
The campaign offers several support packages tailored to different types of collectors and gamers. Starting at $30, backers can secure a Pocket Taco at a lower price than its future retail cost. For those seeking something unique, there’s a Kickstarter-exclusive edition featuring an “Atomic Purple” colorway — a nostalgic nod to classic 90s handhelds. For those who want more than one controller, GameSir also offers bundle tiers that include multiple Pocket Tacos at a reduced price, perfect for gifting or sharing with friends.
Shipping is expected to commence in March 2026 for all tiers, ensuring backers receive their Pocket Taco well before general retail availability.
Source: Kickstarter