Hobbies And Interests
Features
The PlayStation 3 controller features the same general setup as the PlayStations 1 and 2 controllers. The shape is the same, and it features a directional pad, Select and Start buttons, as well as the Triangle, Circle, Square and X buttons. Left and right joysticks are still in place, as well as the L1, L2, R1 and R2 buttons. New additions to the controller include Bluetooth wireless capability, a PS button, SIXAXIS technology, controller assignment lights, and DUALSHOCK 3 technology. Color choices include black, red, metallic blue, satin silver and ceramic white.
PS Button
Sony integrated a "PS" button into this new controller. This clear, circular button lies between the select and start buttons. Pressing this button loads the PS3 Cross Media Bar. This allows for multitasking during game play. Players can adjust accessory settings, send messages and access many other PS3 operations without having to end game play.
Bluetooth Wireless Capability
The PS3 controller can be used wirelessly. After charging the controller with the included USB cord, players can disconnect and roam free of cords. Sony included four small lights on the top of each controller. These lights indicate the controller assignment, so players can distinguish which is which when multiple controllers are in use.
SixAxis
SixAxis technology allows the player to control games in an all new way. Activating SixAxis technology turns the PS3 controller into a movement-sensitive method of controlling games. The controller senses when it is being tilted, thrusted or turned, and corresponds with the game accordingly.
DualShock 3
The first round of PS3 controllers did not feature a rumble feature, like its PlayStation 2 predecessor. At the time, Sony omitted this feature due to legal patenting issues. In September 2007, it was announced that new controllers, featuring DualShock 3 technology would soon hit the market, bringing the rumble feature back to the PlayStation gaming experience.
Reviews and Criticism
Positive user reviews commended the PS3 controller for being lightweight, creating a more comfortable gaming experience. The USB charge feature received some negative criticism. One CNET reviewer, John P. Falcone, criticized the inability to charge the controller through other USB power sources, such as a PC. Falcone also criticized the nonremovable battery, because battery failure would ultimately mean the player must purchase a new controller.