Reviews: Gamepads and Controllers

If the hardcore first person shooter addicts will never abandon the classic combination that is keyboard + mouse, fans of racing games and sports simulations are often keener on gamepads.  They're practical and inexpensive, and as easy to get the hang of as their counterparts on consoles. 

Indeed, many PC controllers are directly inspired by products first available bundled with consoles.  One such model in particular has created something of a revolution: the Microsoft Xbox 360 pad, now available with a wireless version, made a splash by swapping the position of the the left-hand joystick and the directional pad.

Without a doubt, Microsoft's controller is a (the?) tough act to follow.  We're glad to report that the competition has responded.  Some have copied Microsoft's lead, while others have innovated.  Saitek, for instance, offers a modular pad which allows you to adjust the layout of the controls yourself.  The choice is yours: Xbox layout, or PS3?  All of this customizability comes in cheaper than the Microsoft offering and is coupled with individual styling.

Logitech, meanwhile, has more everyday concerns in mind with its new ChillStream pad designed to keep a cool flow of air blowing across your hands to prevent sweaty palms, eliminating 'the anxiety of hand-offs and high-fives.'

One other thing to look out for in the competition is the ability to add different profiles to certain buttons.  Automating complicated actions, or programming functions specific to a particular game can certainly have its performance benefits for dedicated gamers.