# gamepad

> type of game controller held in two hands and where fingers provide input

**Wikidata**: [Q273140](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q273140)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamepad)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gamepad

## Summary
A gamepad is a type of video game controller designed to be held in two hands, where finger inputs provide control. It is a subclass of video game controllers and is commonly used across various gaming platforms, including consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo systems.

## Key Facts
- A gamepad is a subclass of video game controllers, used with games or entertainment systems.
- It is typically held in two hands, with finger inputs for control.
- Notable examples include the Xbox Wireless Controller, DualShock series, and Wii Classic Controller.
- The Atari Jaguar Pro Controller is a variant with 17 buttons, including three additional face buttons and two shoulder buttons.
- The Steam Controller, released on November 10, 2015, is a discontinued model developed by Valve.
- The Wii Classic Controller was released on August 6, 2005, for the Nintendo Wii.
- Gamepads are distinct from gaming keypads, which are keyboard-like devices.
- The term "gamepad" is also used in Unicode as the character 🎮.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the difference between a gamepad and a joystick?
A: A gamepad is typically held in two hands and uses finger inputs, while a joystick is often held in one hand and operated with a thumb or hand.

### Q: Which consoles use gamepads?
A: Gamepads are used with consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, and various other gaming platforms.

### Q: What is the most popular gamepad?
A: The Xbox Wireless Controller and DualShock series are among the most popular gamepads, used with Xbox and PlayStation consoles, respectively.

### Q: Are there accessible gamepads?
A: Yes, the Xbox Adaptive Controller is designed for people with disabilities, offering customizable inputs.

### Q: What is the oldest gamepad mentioned in the source?
A: The Atari Jaguar Controller is one of the older gamepads referenced in the source material.

## Why It Matters
Gamepads have evolved significantly since their inception, becoming a staple in gaming culture. They provide intuitive, ergonomic control for players, allowing for precise input through finger movements. The design of gamepads has influenced the development of controllers across different gaming platforms, ensuring consistency and ease of use. Their adaptability has also led to specialized versions, such as the Xbox Adaptive Controller, making gaming more accessible to a broader audience. Gamepads are integral to the gaming experience, offering a balance between simplicity and functionality that enhances gameplay across various genres.

## Notable For
- The Atari Jaguar Pro Controller is notable for its expanded button layout, featuring 17 buttons, including three additional face buttons and two shoulder buttons.
- The Steam Controller, released in 2015, introduced a unique design with a trackpad and gyroscopic sensors, setting a new standard for input versatility.
- The Wii Classic Controller, released in 2005, was a significant evolution from the original Wii Remote, offering a more traditional gamepad layout.
- The DualShock series, particularly the DualShock 4, is renowned for its haptic feedback and motion-sensing capabilities, enhancing immersion in games.
- The Xbox Adaptive Controller stands out for its customizable inputs and accessibility features, making gaming more inclusive for people with disabilities.

## Body
### Definition and Classification
A gamepad is a type of video game controller designed to be held in two hands, with finger inputs providing control. It is a subclass of video game controllers, used with various gaming platforms, including consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo systems.

### Notable Models
- **Xbox Wireless Controller**: The primary controller for Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S consoles.
- **DualShock Series**: A series of gamepads for PlayStation, including the DualShock 4, known for its haptic feedback and motion-sensing capabilities.
- **Wii Classic Controller**: Released in 2005 for the Nintendo Wii, it offered a more traditional gamepad layout compared to the original Wii Remote.
- **Steam Controller**: A discontinued model developed by Valve in 2015, featuring a trackpad and gyroscopic sensors for versatile input.
- **Xbox Adaptive Controller**: Designed by Microsoft for accessibility, offering customizable inputs for people with disabilities.

### Historical Context
- **Atari Jaguar Controller**: One of the older gamepads referenced, with the Atari Jaguar Pro Controller featuring an expanded button layout.
- **Logitech Thunderpad Digital**: An early computer game controller, distinct from traditional gamepads.

### Unique Features
- The Steam Controller introduced a trackpad and gyroscopic sensors, setting a new standard for input versatility.
- The DualShock 4 is renowned for its haptic feedback and motion-sensing capabilities, enhancing immersion in games.
- The Xbox Adaptive Controller is notable for its customizable inputs and accessibility features, making gaming more inclusive.

### Cultural Impact
Gamepads have played a significant role in gaming culture, evolving from simple input devices to sophisticated tools that enhance gameplay. Their design and functionality have influenced the development of controllers across different platforms, ensuring consistency and ease of use. The adaptability of gamepads has also led to specialized versions, such as the Xbox Adaptive Controller, making gaming more accessible to a broader audience.

```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "gamepad",
  "description": "type of game controller held in two hands and where fingers provide input",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q31189", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamepad"],
  "additionalType": "VideoGameController"
}

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013