gamecontrollers

A game controller is a handheld input device used to interact with video games. Controllers typically map user actions to on-screen events through buttons, triggers, and analog sticks, and may include motion sensors, touch surfaces, or haptic feedback.

Common types include gamepads, which are used on consoles and PCs; joysticks and arcade sticks for flight and arcade-style games; steering wheels and flight yokes for driving and flight simulators; dance pads for rhythm games; and motion controllers or VR controllers that track hand movements.

Most controllers connect by USB or wirelessly via Bluetooth or proprietary radio protocols. Many are HID-compliant, allowing broad cross-platform compatibility, though some use platform-specific drivers. Latency, battery life, button layout, and ergonomic design affect usability. Modern devices increasingly support haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and touch inputs.

Controllers vary in platform compatibility and official vs. third-party support. Consoles typically sell official controllers and a wide range of licensed accessories; PCs may require bindings or drivers, with extensive customization available in software. Accessibility features such as remappable inputs, sensitivity settings, and large-button configurations improve inclusivity.

Historically, controllers evolved from simple joysticks to sophisticated wireless and motion-based devices. Notable examples include the Nintendo Entertainment System controller, the PlayStation DualShock series, the Xbox Wireless Controller, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, and VR controllers such as Oculus Touch.