Controller
From Wikia Gaming, your source for walkthroughs, games, guides, and more!
A controller is an input device for a player to interface with a console. A basic standard controller consists of buttons and a Directional pad (also know as a D-pad) as well as an analog stick.
Over the years, controllers have advanced in both comfort and functionality. The original NES controller, for example, was a pointy rectangle with two main buttons, two secondary buttons, and a D-Pad. The next iteration of Nintendo's systems, the Super Nintendo, featured a controller with much easier to hold curves, complete with four main face buttons, two top mounted buttons, and the same two secondary buttons as the NES.
As time went on, more and more features and shapes were added, such as runaway favorites like the analog stick and rumble support. Controllers like the Nintendo 64's are now seen as unwieldy, with a more basic shape now the norm. These days, a controller will usually have a center unit, with the D-Pad on the left, and main face buttons on the right. Shoulder buttons are a norm now. Secondary buttons can be positioned almost anywhere, but are usually closer to the middle. And analog sticks are positioned near either the D-Pad or the face buttons. On present day traditional controllers two analog sticks are now considered to be essential to player control.
Though a basic controller shape has taken form, there is nothing that says that this shape will continue to be the norm; and as the Wii shows, risks will be taken.
[edit] First party controller images
[edit] Other types of controllers
- Keyboard - an array of keys (ex: QWERTY layout)
- Joystick - a multiaxis lever, Directional pad or analog stick controller with side buttons for action.
- Paddle - a rotary dial controller with an action button aside.
- Dance Pad - a floor pad to stomp on. Popularized by Dance Dance Revolution.
- Mouse - a pointing device that moves a cursor, and also used to accomadate First person shooter games.
- Touch screen - a screen used for touching virtual objects with; popularized by the Nintendo DS.
- Steering Wheel - A device used for racing games.
