Back in the day, players used simple joysticks with one or two buttons, but today, we have more advanced controllers that are equipped with multiple buttons and sensors. Unlike old times, modern games are more complex and require a better control system and that’s the reason, why controllers have evolved, so as to accommodate the changing technological needs and demands of players.
From D-pads to PlayStation and Xbox controllers, each version is unique and adds new features to make the system better. Talking about modern gamepads, include touchpads, haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers that offer a more immersive and realistic experience to players.
However, the evolution of controllers is not just about adding buttons or changing shapes, but enhancing the way we connect with games. In this post, we will take a closer look at how game controllers have changed over time.
The Origins
Video game consoles first entered the market in the 1970s, when controllers were simple but bulkier than modern-day models. Launched in 1972, the Magnavox Odyssey came with a basic device with two dials that could be used for moving up and down and side-to-side.
Unfortunately, the design was not very user-friendly, except it got the job done efficiently. But as video games got more advanced, it became clear that controllers needed to improve too, or else it wouldn’t work out.
Atari 2600
By 1977, things changed a lot when the Atari 2600 entered the scene with its joystick controller that allowed players to move in eight different directions. No doubt, it was a big improvement and became a symbol of early gaming in a short time.
However, the design was not flawless because it made players’ hands sore if they played for too long. Also, the single button was no longer enough for the growing variety of games.
D-Pad Revolution
In the 1980s, video games became more accessible as players could play them in their living rooms without visiting an arcade. One of the biggest changes came from Nintendo, when they introduced the D-pad, which showed up on their small Game & Watch handhelds, but later became a household feature because of how convenient it was to use.
This new design made it easier to control games and also with more accuracy. As developers created more detailed and exciting games, the D-pad became more popular, allowing players to interact with them in a better way.
The NES Controller
The NES controller looked like a rectangular block and featured a cross-shaped D-pad, two action buttons, and Select/Start buttons. Although it looked basic, it was a game-changer and felt good to use.
Compared to the previous controllers, it was lightweight and easier to hold. However, the best part was that it didn’t wear out your hands after just a few minutes, so you could play as long as you wanted. It was one of the early controllers that laid the foundation for future controllers and made the gaming community better.
Sega Genesis
In 1988, Sega launched the Sega Genesis which added a fresh twist to the controller game. Unlike earlier controllers, this one had a curved shape that not only fit better in your hands but also had three action buttons. Also, the design was bigger, bolder, and could handle more complex gameplay with ease.
During this time, games were more detailed, and players needed extra controls to keep up with the gameplay. Although the Genesis controller didn’t change everything overnight, it started a new trend with more buttons and exciting game mechanics. This gave players better control for special moves and combos which they lacked before.
Nintendo 64
Fast forward to 1966, Nintendo launched the N64, a bold new controller that not only looked unique but was much more efficient than all the other controllers before. It featured a three-handled design that allowed players to hold it in different ways depending on the game they played.
However, the main highlight was the analog stick that allowed more natural movement in all directions. With this new feature, it was not just about pressing buttons, players could run, walk, and explore with much greater control. This opened the door to new possibilities and helped developers take advantage of it.
Sony DualShock
After Nintendo, it was Sony that changed the game again with the release of the DualShock controller. They launched it in 1997 for their PlayStation console and included two analog sticks, instead of one. While one stick helped move the character, the other was used for controlling the camera.
Compared to the single analog stick model, the dual-stick layout proved to be more convenient and it soon became the standard in 3D gaming. However, Sony didn’t stop there as they added vibration feedback in their controllers, making players feel the action in their hands. From explosion to crash, players could feel everything that happened on the screen. DualShock was one of the first controllers that offered this kind of sensory feedback, making games more immersive than ever.
What To Expect In the Future?
Game controllers have come a long way and they are expected to get even better in the future. As players continue to look for a more realistic experience, the devices we use to play are sure to become smarter and more advanced.
One of the major changes we can expect is voice control that allows you to control the gameplay using your voice, instead of sticks and buttons. If paired with AI, it can make games more responsive and personal.
There’s also a chance; that we will have gesture-based controls that let you control the gameplay by moving your hand or wrist. Another big change can be related to AR and VR as these technologies are already being used by some companies.
As technology continues to improve, we will have much better controllers in the future. These will not only let you play but also immerse yourself fully into the game world. Also, it is safe to say that this evolution won’t slow down, instead it will progress faster and give us more to experience.