Mario Kart fans, rejoice! A creative maker has brought a nostalgic twist to modern gaming by designing 3D printed Joy-Con grips that mimic the iconic Mario Kart Wii steering wheel. These custom accessories not only enhance gameplay but also offer a comfortable and immersive racing experience for Nintendo Switch users.
3D Printed Joy-Con Grips Inspired by Mario Kart Wii
Reddit user u/SmashTimePlays recently shared their innovative 3D printed Joy-Con grips on the r/3Dprinting subreddit, and the design has quickly gained attention. The grips are modeled after the classic Mario Kart Wii steering wheel, a beloved accessory that many gamers remember fondly. By adapting this design for the Nintendo Switch, the creator has successfully merged retro aesthetics with modern functionality.
The grips are designed to securely hold the Joy-Con controllers, allowing players to steer just like they did on the Wii. The result is a more tactile and engaging experience, especially when playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The design includes a slot for the Joy-Con to slide into, with the wheel providing a natural grip and improved control during gameplay.
Design and 3D Printing Details
According to the creator, the grips were printed using PLA filament, a popular and beginner-friendly material in the 3D printing community. PLA is known for its ease of use, low warping, and good surface finish, making it ideal for accessories like these. The design files were created in CAD software and optimized for FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printers.
The grips were printed in two halves and then assembled, ensuring a sturdy and ergonomic final product. The creator also mentioned that the design is available for download on Printables, allowing other enthusiasts to print their own versions at home. The model is compatible with standard Joy-Con dimensions and includes detailed instructions for assembly.
Enhancing the Mario Kart Experience
While the Nintendo Switch already offers a variety of controller options, including the official Joy-Con Wheel accessory, this 3D printed version stands out for its nostalgic design and DIY appeal. It brings back the feel of the Mario Kart Wii era, which many fans consider one of the most enjoyable entries in the franchise.
These grips are not just about looks—they also improve comfort during extended play sessions. The larger wheel shape provides a better grip than the small Joy-Con alone, reducing hand fatigue and making it easier to steer with precision. For players who enjoy motion controls, the wheel design enhances the sense of immersion, making each race feel more dynamic and interactive.
DIY Gaming Accessories and the 3D Printing Community
This project is a great example of how 3D printing empowers gamers to customize and enhance their gaming setups. From controller mods to console stands, the 3D printing community continues to innovate and share designs that improve the gaming experience. Platforms like Printables and Thingiverse have become hubs for these creations, offering free access to thousands of models for download and personal use.
For those new to 3D printing, this project is a manageable and rewarding entry point. With a basic FDM printer and some PLA filament, anyone can recreate these Joy-Con grips and enjoy a personalized Mario Kart experience. It also opens the door to further customization—users can modify the design to fit their preferences, add logos, or even print in different colors to match their favorite characters.
As 3D printing technology becomes more accessible, we can expect to see even more creative and functional gaming accessories emerge from the community. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore fan, these Mario Kart-inspired grips are a fun and practical way to bring a bit of nostalgia to your next race.
Source: Creative Bloq
