The world of console gaming brought gamepads to the world of computer gaming. Thanks to them, there are a variety of these devices perfect for use with such sports and action titles as Shaun White Snowboarding and LEGO Batman. While you can always use your keyboard to play those games, it’s difficult to get precise control of the action with the arrow and number pad keys. A gamepad, however, offers the buttons and directional pads you need in a comfortable configuration that’s easier on the fingers.
Typical gamepads, such as the Macally iSHOCKX, feature multiple action buttons, a D(directional)-pad, a pause/start button and, usually, a control stick or two. Most games allow you to remap functions to the various buttons, and the choice between a D-pad and a control stick (which looks like a mini joystick) allows you to go with what works best for you. Some gamers prefer pushing the corners of the D-pad to control the action while others like nudging a control stick with their thumb.
Those of you with Mac OS X version 10.2.3 or higher can also take advantage of the operating system’s built-in force feedback capabilities, which turn every bump into a vibration in your gamepad. Wipe out in Shaun White Snowboarding, for example, and you’ll feel your onscreen snowboarder’s pain.
The Macally iSHOCKX is also a perfect gamepad for really feeling that visceral thrill.
