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[SolidSnakex]

Well, the system is 13 million behind in the US so maybe the controller is only acceptable in some regions and unacceptable in others. Who knows but when you base it on sales this is a logical conclusion.

I'm not saying that the controller shouldn't be changed at all. I think that there are enough complaints about the triggers (even from those that do like the controller) that shows that they should obviously look into changing that up. I also think that they should adopt the Vita's D-Pad. Even tightening the analog sticks should be looked into, as well as version with concave sticks. But outside of that it should remain the same (analog placement, size of the controller etc.). It'd be a nice middle ground for Sony. They'd keep those happy that love the controller as it is (as the changes would be relatively minor) while fixing it up for those that have some issues with things like the triggers.

Also changing the controller actually worked for Nintendo. Had they kept it the same, who knows what the Wii would have been. Chaning the controller is what made them a major player again.

Sure, but the PS3 didn't perform like the Gamecube did. The Gamecube sold 21m units worldwide. That was fewer than the N64. So they clearly had to do something that would make them stand out compared to Sony and MS.

 

[HomerSimpson-Man]

Real triggers for the L2/R2 buttons.
Concave instead of convex analog sticks.

EDIT: YES!

The DS3 is not perfect.

Hell, Sony's own Dual analog controller (1997) was a better design and Sony decided to go backwards.

Longer handles, concave stick tops....something on the L2/R2 triggers.

But NO. Sony went and over thought something again.

Sheesh...the DS3 isn't perfect. It's convenient.

 

[cnizzle06]

I always thought that pressure feedback on buttons would be a neat idea. You know, like resistance to pushing down comparable to something like pulling a trigger.

 

[lowrider007]

I always thought that pressure feedback on buttons would be a neat idea. You know, like resistance to pushing down comparable to something like pulling a trigger.

The DS3 does have pressure sensitive buttons, even L1 & R1 are pressure sensitive.


Edit - I think your suggesting someone different, my mistake.

 

[brumx]

I dont believe the PSX controller was meant to have analog sticks at all. It's based off a 1994-95 design. I always prefer the 1st one back in the 90's tho.

 

[dr_rus]

I have zero problems with DS3. That's the last part of PS3 console that they need to fix in PS4.

I do have problems with 360's pad by the way. I like my Logitech F710 much more than 360's pad.

 

[cnizzle06]

The DS3 does have pressure sensitive buttons, even L1 & R1 are pressure sensitive.


Edit - I think your suggesting someone different, my mistake.

Yeah, I kinda mean resistive feedback adjustable at the developer level.

 

[Robso]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E67EqMrNpKs

 

[Xplatformer]

Someone explain the advantage to having convex analog stick tops instead of concave. Please.

 

[IsntChrisL]

It could use some more ergonomic handles.

 

[immortal-joe]

No
No
No
No


My hand has been using it since 1995, never had a problem with it

- Sensitive sticks means more accurate movements for me, I love how light they feel

- the button's analog feel is great, and I do NOT want oval shaped buttons protruding from the controller that do not support analog sensitivity. Seriously, why the fuck did we let go of that?!


- Here is the point where I know many will roll their eyes: the small frame of the controller means I never have to grip it with my full hand to reach all buttons, which means more comfort (less strain on my hand), which in turn leads to more playtime. It just kind of rests in the palm of my hand.

It's beautiful....please don't take it away from me :_(

 

[mocolostrocolos]

Yes, they do need to change it but they won't though.

 

[M.W.]

I agree. It's one of the worst things about playstation.

 

[abstract alien]

Just like the 360 controller, it's an old design that just does old things. Like a computer keyboard. Keep it around like the old family dog that sits around and loves you, but don't let it be the backbone of what you set your future upon. The batarang was a decent design switch, but it was only a cosmetic change. Give me new, innovative functionality. Give me things I couldn't do on another system, and a reason to actually feel like I'm playing a next generation system, not just the "next" system.

The 360 controller is worse in this regard however, as it's actually removed functionality from it's controller, which wasn't even innovative or all that great to begin with. Sure it's comfortable, but why shouldn't it be. It's decade old design that has been done to death. Why the fuck wouldn't it be comfortable. They couldn't even get that right though since the dpad was horrific for anything other than selecting weapons and other secondary type actions.

Fuck both of them.

 

[Psy-Phi]

Someone explain the advantage to having convex analog stick tops instead of concave. Please.

Either design is just a very subtle difference. It changes the way your thumb interfaces with the stick. On Convex your thumb will hold the angle of the stick from outside of the stick in, and convcave from the inside out. It's the fulcrum of where your thumb is holding that angle that either design shifts.

You can use either in the same way as the other, but each has a style that feels more natural. It's actually difficult to describe confidently, hoping that you understand what I'm trying to portray.

 

[Noisepurge]

Give me new, innovative functionality. Give me things I couldn't do on another system, and a reason to actually feel like I'm playing a next generation system

Exactly this! the Dualshock is fine but we have had it for 3 generations now. Games will not evolve if we keep using the exact same functionality. It really is up to Microsoft and Sony to come out with a new console and have a completely new standard controller to redefine things.

 

[HyperionX]

Triggers are useless in 95% of games, and make some games worse. They should be eliminated from all controllers.

I wouldn't mind if they evolved it into something like this.

It's still way more versatile than the 360 controller.

It's sad that there are so obvious improvements to the DS controller like the Logitech f710/510 and yet no one bothers to take it more seriously. If you've ever used that controller, you know that it is the superior controller to the DS3. Possibly even the X360 if you consider the d-pad. We shouldn't lie to ourselves and pretend the DS3 approaches anything like perfection.

 

[Xplatformer]

Just like the 360 controller, it's an old design that just does old things. Like a computer keyboard. Keep it around like the old family dog that sits around and loves you, but don't let it be the backbone of what you set your future upon. The batarang was a decent design switch, but it was only a cosmetic change. Give me new, innovative functionality. Give me things I couldn't do on another system, and a reason to actually feel like I'm playing a next generation system, not just the "next" system.

The 360 controller is worse in this regard however, as it's actually removed functionality from it's controller, which wasn't even innovative or all that great to begin with. Sure it's comfortable, but why shouldn't it be. It's decade old design that has been done to death. Why the fuck wouldn't it be comfortable. They couldn't even get that right though since the dpad was horrific for anything other than selecting weapons and other secondary type actions.

Fuck both of them.

That keeps coming up and it's kind of annoying. The D-Pad, though used quite often for some games, isn't the main control scheme for most gamers. It's great for fighters, yes.

OK...so the D-PAD sucks on the 360. It's not fighting gamers best controller.
Of the top 20 $$$ titles on the PS3 and 360 this generation how many of those titles use the D-PAD as the main control option.

People use that to knock the 360, but unless your favorite gaming genre is fighters...IMO it's not that big a deal.

And I'm thinking that won't change next generation either, so if the D-Pad on the PS4/720 controller sucks...it won't matter to a majority of gamers. And probably a heavy majority of gamers.

 

[M°°nblade]

It's perfect the way it is.

.

 

[Joni]

Maybe, they should just release the "DS4" as main controller for the PS4 and release a 360-like controller as an extra. (But still with the DS improvements like better D-Pad; and actual analog buttons) Everybody happy.

 

[cakefoo]

I always find these threads hilarious, as the Dual Shock is an abomination of a controller... the left analog stick placement is hideous. My thumb doesn't work that way, so even though in some ways the 360 pad is inferior (D-Pad) it's size and basic placement of sticks makes it the superior controller of choice.

I think so many praise the DS because it's what they are used too, but it's a crap controller.

Symmetrical appendages + symmetrical thumbsticks = different results? It seems to me the only reason that could be is because of a deeper muscle memory relationship with your 360 controller.

 

[staticneuron]

L2 and R2 suck, and they could be a little more comfortable to hold for larger hands.. but aside from that, I think they still have the best controller out there.

Agreed. It is one of my favorite designs. Maybe if it was just a bit wider it may feel better while playing shooters but the issues I have with the controller is slight.

 

[Esura]

Just lose the entire DS form factor and start from scratch. Use the superior 360 controller as a guide, but feel free to improve on it (start by using the Dpad from the Vita). Keep in mind that not everyone has the hands of a child. Make it comfortable for those of us with adult-sized hands.

My hands are bigger than the average adult and I have no problem using it. If you don't like the controller or find it uncomfortable that's cool but I wish people stop using the tired, "not for adult-sized hands" excuse against DS3.

 

[Lord Griegous]

Although I find the x360 controller to be more comfortable, I would be content with Sony just putting real triggers to the new controller. Other than that, DS3 works perfectly for me.

 

[abstract alien]

That keeps coming up and it's kind of annoying. The D-Pad, though used quite often for some games, isn't the main control scheme for most gamers. It's great for fighters, yes.

OK...so the D-PAD sucks on the 360. It's not fighting gamers best controller.
Of the top 20 $$$ titles on the PS3 and 360 this generation how many of those titles use the D-PAD as the main control option.

People use that to knock the 360, but unless your favorite gaming genre is fighters...IMO it's not that big a deal.

And I'm thinking that won't change next generation either, so if the D-Pad on the PS4/720 controller sucks...it won't matter to a majority of gamers. And probably a heavy majority of gamers.

I pretty much said that same thing in my post. Regardless, the dpad shouldn't suck on a controller that is about clinging to the past and replicating. It's nothing new. Why is it as bad as it is in the first place on a current generation controller is my issue. It's not like it's "not quite as good" or "doesn't live up but it's fine generally speaking". No, it's fucking horrid lol. A controller that doesn't do anything new in the first place, on top of removing analog face buttons, should not have anything wrong with it.

 

[Vormund]

Make original Dual Analog, wireless and shock.
That's all I need.

Yup.

Although the Logitech F710 would be a good starting point too.

 

[Hydrargyrus]

The only changes that needs are concave triggers and sticks.

And they should remove the sixaxis function, and a rear touch panel (like Vita's) would be a great adition

 

[magawolaz]

I really like the overall shape. Just give me concave sticks, Vita's D-pad and no dead zones on L2/R2 and I'm happy!

 

[staticneuron]

Exactly this! the Dualshock is fine but we have had it for 3 generations now. Games will not evolve if we keep using the exact same functionality. It really is up to Microsoft and Sony to come out with a new console and have a completely new standard controller to redefine things.

No. This is why they released stuff like the move and the kinect. If you want a totally different controller it is out there for you. But I happen to like the concept of sticks and buttons. Trying it other ways just proved how much you really don't need to mess with the basics.

But the Dualshock hadn't been "exactly" the same for 3 generations. The DS2 brought pressure sensitive buttons and dpad. The DS3 added motion sensing, analog triggers, has a wider shape and is wireless.

Minor changes will always be preferred because if it isn't broke why scrap it entirely.

 

[Shtof]

Maybe Sony won't, but it seems Microsoft are following the times in controller trends.

 

[Parallax]

It's sad that there are so obvious improvements to the DS controller like the Logitech f710/510 and yet no one bothers to take it more seriously. If you've ever used that controller, you know that it is the superior controller to the DS3. Possibly even the X360 if you consider the d-pad. We shouldn't lie to ourselves and pretend the DS3 approaches anything like perfection.

that bubble dpad is fantastic. the best option that isnt microswitches.

 

[Noisepurge]

No. This is why they released stuff like the move and the kinect. If you want a totally different controller it is out there for you. But I happen to like the concept of sticks and buttons.

But the Dualshock hadn't been "exactly" the same for 3 generations. The DS2 brought pressure sensitive buttons and dpad. The DS3 added motion sensing, analog triggers, has a wider shape and is wireless.

But the Move and the Kinect are not the standard controller, which is why 99% of games don't support them. Besides they are still wildly inaccurate and can not replace the functions of a Dualshock.

And gameplaywise the Dualshock has been almost the same, i did like the pressure sensitivity but only games like MetalGear truly used them as a feature. The motionsensing was an afterthought.

The evolution has to be like the NES pad -> Dualshock 3, to enable all new kinds of things gameplaywise but not sacrifice the previous features. Not just another dualstick 3rdperson shooter with the exact same gameplay capabilities.

I mean when are we going to able to use the characters hands independently and get that leaning behind corners back etc. Crouching, jumping, rolling is all done now based on the controller restrictions. Not to say that playing games like Max Payne 3 isn't fun. But i hope to see that Max Payne 4 on the next system could allow me to do more insane stuff more accurately. Do those MGS4 cutscene CQB maneuvers by myself!

I would gladly see something batshit crazy like this:

And i dont even know what that is! But add some thumbsticks on it and you got a real new controller that would have twisting parts, lots of buttons and everything to enable new kinds of interaction in the genres we know and love! (okay maybe not in this design but its the best photo i could find on a short notice)

edit: The Razer Hydra is something i would like to see developed along a console!

 

[TriGen]

I've always loved the PS controllers, but I do feel like the shoulders could be a little better. I would be fine with them keeping everything the same though.

 

[cakefoo]

I might be able to communicate the disadvantage of convex thumbsticks by having people try a few quick exercises.

1. Place your thumb on the right stick and press to the outside edge and do, say, 40 circles at a rate of 2 per second. Then pause and do 40 in the reverse direction. Repeat for the other thumbstick.

2. Move the stick in a straight line up and down, hitting the edges of the stick's range. Say "Mis-sis-sip-pi," that's the speed you should be alternating direction. Do "Mississippi" 20 times. Then do straight left and right. Repeat for the other thumb.

If you can pass this test without feeling awkward, try again when you've been playing for a half hour and the sticks have been building up oils and heat and sweat.

 

[dofry]

1. Make the grips longer. This is a problem for both DS3 and 360 controllers. In longer use my pinkies get tired. Are there any extension pieces for the DS3?
2. Fix the triggers to be a a bit convex so I don't have to get cheap but extra 3rd party triggers.
3. Make the whole control a bit wider for probably a better feel.

But, heck I don't mind them totally redesigning the whole controller if there are reasons for it with the PS4.

 

[Gen X]

The pad doesn't need that much of an overhaul. Can keep the current design, just fix those damn sensitive/floppy sticks. It doesn't take much, after replacing my sticks with ones from a 360 fps games are way more enjoyable to play now. Subtle movements and minute adjustments are so much easier now, especially when sniping or trying to to line up that shot as well as driving games. Shit, Gran Turismo is even enjoyable with the pad now I changed sticks.

My DS3 pad.

Does this require any special mod to the 360 sticks?

Only modification I had to make was shave a tiny bit off the top of the actual stem that the concave sticks sit on in order to fit inside the casing (and when I say a tiny bit, I really mean a slither. I used a razor blade to take a bit off). The only part that takes time is assembling the bloody DS3, it's so fidgety.

Since the key players in this image are Atari (RIP), Nintendo, Sega and Sony, I am surprised they missed out the Gamecube pad and the Dreamcast pad.

 

[Taiser]

derp.

 

[Noisepurge]

1. Make the grips longer. This is a problem for both DS3 and 360 controllers. In longer use my pinkies get tired. Are there any extension pieces for the DS3?

There is the XtendPlay, it looks fugly but it is really comfortable!

 

[Meatvillain]

Better triggers and maybe make it a little bigger/give it better ergonomics. Face buttons are great, don't really have a preference when it comes to stick placement between the 360 pad and the PS3.

 

[Number45]

There is the XtendPlay, it looks fugly but it is really comfortable!

What the hell is that thing?

EDIT:

 

[Noisepurge]

What the hell is that thing?

Its a like a pillow for your hands! give it a try if you see it in a shop. It's also available for the 360.

edit: watch this! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mp8ZCU7UAf4

 

[Raoh]

There is the XtendPlay, it looks fugly but it is really comfortable!

What the hell is that thing?

EDIT:

 

[Izayoi]

I fucking hate it and I want to smash it to pieces.

I do smash it to pieces because it's impossible to hold in my freak hands.

 

[MYE]

How about something like this?

 

[StuBurns]

Only Nintendo can have those dpads.

It needs Start/Select for BC.

 

[Graphics Horse]

Start and Select are replaced with yelling 'Orbis, Start' and 'Orbis, Select'.


I just want to see something totally new and different, but the industry is so conservative these days, I don't think Sony would risk it.

 

[MYE]

Start and Select are replaced with yelling 'Orbis, Start' and 'Orbis, Select'.


I just want to see something totally new and different, but the industry is so conservative these days, I don't think Sony would risk it.

Embrace the future

 

[Paertan]

Only thing I want is R1 and R2 to be easier to use at the same time. And L1/L2 of course.
I want it to be easier to use middlefigner for R2/L2 instead of the index finger.

 

[Fried Food]

At the very least they should tighten up the sticks.

 

[waypoetic]

Only thing I want is R1 and R2 to be easier to use at the same time. And L1/L2 of course.
I want it to be easier to use middlefigner for R2/L2 instead of the index finger.

I put my index on R1 and middle on R2. That's how i place my hands/fingers when i play shooters. I change it up when i play racinggames and fightinggames etc.