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The Advantages of a Gamepad

The gamepad offers several advantages over traditional joysticks and computer keyboards, allowing you to have increased control over the virtual characters you navigate. You use fewer fingers while you play a game and don't need to connect the gamepad to the game console. Understanding a gamepad's advantages helps you determine if a gamepad is right for you.

Wireless Operation
- Gamepads sold with or for the Sony PlayStation 3, the Xbox 360 or the Nintendo Wii are wireless. Classic joysticks and older versions of the gamepad had to be connected to the console itself. With wireless controls, you can sit as close to or as far from your monitor as you choose and still have full control over the video game you are controlling. If your gamepad needs to be charged, connect it to the console. While it's charging, you can still use the gamepad.
Versatility
- The gamepad does more than just control video game characters. For example, the PlayStation 3 gamepad can navigate through the Play Station Network and browse websites through the PlayStation Web browser. When you watch a movie on your PlayStation 3, the gamepad acts as a remote, allowing you to pause, rewind, fast forward and jump to chapters. You can also use gamepads designed for consoles such as the PS3 and the Nintendo Wii on your PC, or purchase gamepads designed specifically for a PC. This eliminates the need to use the keyboard as a controller. The keyboard can be harder to handle if you are used to playing games on a console.
Thumb Control
- With a gamepad, you rely heavily on your thumbs for control. If you hold a gamepad properly, your thumbs control all buttons except the trigger buttons on the gamepad. Using fewer fingers to control your video gaming adventures simplifies the virtual tasks ahead of you. The trigger buttons are controlled with either your pointer finger or your middle finger. However, some games do not require you to use the trigger buttons at all, meaning you can control all aspects of the game with only your thumbs.
Motion Sense
- Gamepads can be used with consoles that feature motion sensors to elevate the gaming experience to new heights. The Nintendo Wii is designed for motion sensor control, and other consoles, including the PS3, feature similar technology. Motion sensor control means you control virtual characters by rotating and tilting the gamepad, rather than pressing buttons. The PS3 racing game "MotorStorm" allows you to control your vehicle using motion sensor control. Rotate the PS3 gamepad right, and your vehicle steers right. Rotate it left, and your vehicle steers left. This is a feature not found on traditional joysticks.

Video Game Accessories