What Is a Dual Shock 3 Controller?

Features

• The DualShock 3 is used to play every game for the Playstation 3 system, but also is used for menu operation in the Playstation 3's main menu and as Blu-ray movie navigation. The controller is called the "DualShock" because of the two analog sticks on the base of the controller and a rumble pack that shakes the controller when it is being used.

History

• The DualShock 3 was never originally released for the Playstation 3. Instead, the controller known as "sixaxis" was released. It looked much like the DualShock 3 controller, but weighed a lot less because it did not feature the rumble capabilities. After complaints from Playstation 3 owners, an eventual DualShock 3 controller was developed and released in April 2008.

Function

• Video games feature rumble triggers that can range from soft rumbles to large rumbles. Examples of rumble triggers include a tackle in a football game, a body slam in a wrestling game, a gun wound in an action game, or a car crash in a racing game. These triggers vibrate the controller and the hands holding them to create a more interactive gaming experience.

Identification

• The standard DualShock 3 is a completely black-colored controller. The controller features a handle for each hand. On the left side are arrows designed to navigate or move through a video game. A left analog stick sits lower and to the right of this navigation pad, and is often used to navigate as well. The right side of the controller features a triangle, circle, square, and X button to create actions during the game. A right analog stick sits below and to the left of those buttons. This is used for secondary video game actions. Four top buttons allow for more game actions, and the top of the controller also features the DualShock 3 logo.

Benefits

• The DualShock 3 is one of the smoothest, most responsive controllers available. The analog sticks capture every precise movement, and many of the buttons can also detect how much speed and pressure is used while pressing them. The wireless ability added to the DualShock 3 makes the controller flexible and allows players to enjoy the Playstation 3 from any part of the room. The controller's extra weight makes it more sturdy and easier to grasp during video game playing.