arduino-n64-controller-library VS antimicro

https://github.com/pothos/arduino-n64-controller-library not great reference but with some trial and error it works well!

Easier solution there is use an actual N64 port controller, read that with your ESP32, that way you won't need a custom PCB, there are libraries to make reading the controller easy, https://github.com/pothos/arduino-n64-controller-library

If you're wondering how to do it yourself, I use Antimicro to map controller inputs to keyboard keys. (green to A, Orange to K, everything follows in between, and strum to L)

Read in the comment section where VR and controller was discussed: "What I do is use AntiMicro: https://github.com/AntiMicro/antimicro/releases , which allows you to map keyboard inputs to your controller, instead of using the games controller input. This way, you can map one button on your controller that when held, activates another mapped set for the controller allowing you to use keyboard hotkeys. It also makes it easier to switch between using your control and the keyboard." So if there is a way to use the controllers maybe it could work.

AntiMicro

There is no native support for controllers for this game. However, you may use the program Antimicro to enable support for controllers, although I only tested with an Xbox 360, but theoretically it should work with others.

Par ici -> https://github.com/AntiMicro/antimicro/releases

bind it to a key combo alt space?) and use a program to fire that combo on joy press (like voiceattack or antimicro https://github.com/AntiMicro/antimicro/releases/tag/2.24-final )

To play with a controller, you'll have to use another program. I suggest antimicro found at https://github.com/AntiMicro/antimicro. It hasn't been updated for almost seven years, but it still works for me.