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ERGONOMICS: A- (9.25) The Dual-Shock doesn’t differ that much from the standard Sony controller. The button configuration is set up nicely, allowing you to reach all the buttons at once without a hassle, and it is very comfortable for those with big or small hands. The problem with the controller lies in its digital pad. Not only is it awkward, it is also very uncomfortable after a few minutes of gameplay because of its blocky, separated hexagon button interface. The Analog sticks are made entirely of plastic except for the small metal rod within them, and the tops have rubber surface for better grip. The Japanese version had only a concave surface, with no rubber for grip, while then American version is convex and is better suited for long periods of play in which your hands may start to sweat. Like the previous "Dual Analog Controller", the Left and Right 2 buttons have been extended for easier accessibility, since you’ll have to hold the controller differently than you would for the standard one to be able to reach the Analog sticks. While this controller may feel better initially, it does not compare to the Saturn’s 3D Analog Controller, but fares much better than N64’s oddly set-up controller, in the ergonomics department. CONTROL: A (9.75) This is obviously the most important feature of a controller, wouldn’t you agree? Well, I can think of only one category this controller does not excel at, and that is Mortal Kombat games, or games of that type, but who is still playing those? This controller is nearly flawless, if it wasn’t for the fact that it only has four buttons on the front, it could be compatible with all games and do a better job than the rest of the selection currently available. The D-pad may not feel very nice on your thumb after a while, but it is responsive non the-less, and does not affect the score. The face buttons are smooth and are not hard to press, like many 3rd party controllers happen to be for some strange reason. In games like Gran Turismo, you’ll find this controller to be unparalleled. Its Analog sticks are the best in the market right now. Every increment of your thumb movements are processed quickly and will greatly affect the speed of whatever movement you’re making in the game. For example, gently move it to the left, and your car will slowly merge in that direction, move the stick all-out, and the car will violently twist through the turn or skid-out uncontrollably. While making the controller bigger to fit all the buttons, Sony has made the perfect size for its controller, which includes two built-in rumbling devices. SPECIAL FUNCTIONS: A+ (10) As mentioned earlier (and by its name), The Dual-Shock Analog Controller features a built-in force-feedback mechanism, which sends a sensible response to the user. The reason it's called "Dual-Shock", is that it has two rotary metal weights that spin at various speeds, making different levels of pulses that you feel in contrast to the gameplay, allowing you to "feel" the game. In Tekken 3, you'll feel every blow you receive from your opponent, or the great force Heihachi gives off while he's charging up, and in Gran Turismo, you'll be able to differentiate each cars' motor vibration and the feel of the road through the virtual "steering wheel" which is in this case, the Analog pad. All this pretty much explains why it's called "Dual-Shock", and why it is such a great enhancement to the game that supports it. I guess you could say that analog is also a special function, but it's become a standard nowadays.
COMPATIBILITY: A (9.75) Right now, there may only be a handful of games that support the "Shock", or even the analog, but as I see it, practically all games will support it in the future, and they are looking very promising (Metal Gear Solid is a good example). It's too bad SEGA hasn't learned a thing about controllers, and its upcoming system "Dreamcast" has one of the worst controllers I've ever seen, although the system is looking like it's going to revitalize video gaming, and there's no denying by anyone that it probably will. Let me remind you that controllers are cross-compatible, so if you prefer a concave surface instead of a rubber grip on each of the sticks, you are free to buy the Japanese-imported Dual-Shock instead of the American one. WORTH BUYING: YES Buy this controller, even if you have to sacrifice a game purchase, I insist. I currently own two and do not regret having spent those $60 on them, because they greatly enhance the way games are played and are of the top-notch Sony quality you've come to expect. DO NOT waste your money on the 3rd party controllers, regardless of minor insignificant details added to them, because in the long run, they won't last as long as the Sony ones, and you'll waste a lot of money on batteries, which this one does not require. Make the wise choice of buying this controller. OVERALL QUALITY: A (9.75) An excellent controller with very minor flaws. To further enhance gameplay, buy this controller now. A superb product. To order the Sony Dual Shock Analog Controller,
click the button
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