There’s being thrifty, and then there’s being cheap.

As news unfolded regarding the tragic loss of an OceanGate Expeditions tourist sub, Titan, one of the more interesting tidbits is what’s used to steer the submarine.

The submersible didn’t meet many safety regulations and one of those regulations included steering controls. The OceanGate submersible used a Logitech F710 wireless game controller.

The award winning controller is reminiscent of a PlayStation Dual Shock controller and features digital and analog paddles.

Since news of the submersible’s disappearance proliferated the game controller became a hot commodity. It’s listed for $99 on Logitech’s website and is on sale for $50 on Amazon.

CBS Sunday Morning first reported about OceanGate Expeditions Titanic trips 6 months ago and clever Internet sleuths recalled the fact the sub is piloted by the same technology gamers used to play Call of Duty.

OceanGate’s Regulatory History

After time elapsed after the submersible lost communications, OceanGate’s history of complaining about regulations began to surface. CBS Sunday Morning’s host, David Progue, noted the makeshift craftsmanship of the sub including off-the-shelf computer displays and the game controller.

As someone who has sailed and lives near a sailing hub, maritime regulations are useful. History is littered with maritime accidents occurring on sailing vessels piloted by people who didn’t like being regulated.

I hope OceanGate’s submersible is recovered with its crew and passengers healthy. Hopefully, accidents like this won’t happen again.