Development of a WebSocket-Based Virtual Controller for Computer Games

• Maycon V. V. Fidelis UMJ
• Icaro S. Ferreira UMJ
• Victor B. D. S. Rosas UMJ

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/sbgames_estendido.2025.14897

Abstract

Introduction: Interaction with digital games occurs predominantly with dedicated physical hardware, causing limited access. With the advancement of communication protocols such as WebSocket and the popularization of smartphones, it is possible to explore new forms of interaction. Objective: Present the development of a virtual control that allows mobile devices to simulate computer video game controls, using low latency communication. Steps: The system was implemented as a client-server system that sends commands via WebSocket and the server converts them into inputs for video game control. Results: The system presented low Wi-Fi latency, enabling its use in games and showing potential as an affordable and portable solution for digital games.

Keywords: Virtual Controller, WebSocket, gamepad, digital games, latency

References

Hoth, T. (2022). Effects of induced latency on performance and perception in video games. In: Proceedings of the International Conference on Game Performance.

Salen, K. e Zimmerman, E. (2004). Regras do jogo: fundamentos do design de jogos. São Paulo: Blucher.

Vajk, T., Coulton, P., Bamford, W. and Edwards, R. (2008). Using a mobile phone as a “Wii‐like” controller for playing games on a large public display. International Journal of Computer Games Technology, 2008(1), Article ID 539078, 7 pages.

Amirkhanov, B., Amirkhanova, G., Kunelbayev, M., Adilzhanova, S. and Tokhtassyn, M. (2025). Evaluating HTTP, MQTT over TCP and MQTT over WebSocket for digital twin applications: A comparative analysis on latency, stability, and integration. International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies, 8(1), 679–694.

Babovic, Z. B., Protic, J. and Milutinovic, V. (2016). Web performance evaluation for internet of things applications. IEEE Access, 4, 6974–6992.

Ogundeyi, K. E. and Yinka-Banjo, C. (2019). WebSocket in real time application. Nigerian Journal of Technology, 38(4), 1010–1020.

React Native. (2025). React Native: Official Documentation. Disponível em: [link]. Acesso em: 27 fev. 2025.

Python Software Foundation. (2025). vgamepad: Virtual gamepad emulation. Disponível em: [link]. Acesso em: 27 mar. 2025.

Python Software Foundation. (2025). Python Programming Language. Disponível em: [link]. Acesso em: 27 mar. 2025.

Internet Engineering Task Force. (2011). RFC 6455: The WebSocket Protocol. Disponível em: [link]. Acesso em 27 de mar. 2025.