The article delves into the secrets and history of various video game controllers from major gaming companies such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo.
PlayStation controllers:
- The original PlayStation controller had a unique design with a triangle, circle, cross, and square. These symbols were chosen for their specific meanings: triangle (direction), circle (Japanese school system), and cross (validation/cancellation).
- The DualShock controller introduced analog sticks, which were initially difficult to use but later became the standard.
- The PS4 controller added a touchpad and light bar, which allows for player identification, immersion, and charging status indication.
Xbox controllers:
- The original Xbox controller, nicknamed "Duke," was large and uncomfortable.
- Microsoft experimented with innovative features, including odor diffusion and an integrated projector, but they were never implemented.
- The Xbox One controller has a unique design and features, such as a battery compartment with a hidden message.
- The company has also developed specialized controllers, like the Adaptive Controller for players with disabilities.
Nintendo controllers:
- Nintendo has produced 14 home consoles since the 1970s, with various controller designs.
- The company invented the directional pad, which revolutionized gaming.
- The Nintendo 64 controller had a unique three-handle design, which was used to access different buttons depending on the game.
- The GameCube controller was the first wireless controller and has a dedicated fan base among professional players.
Other controllers:
- The Sega Dreamcast controller had a built-in screen, known as the Visual Memory Unit, which displayed bonus information and allowed for mini-games.
- The Oculus Rift controllers have hidden messages, similar to those found on Xbox and Nintendo Switch controllers.
The article concludes by speculating about the future of video game controllers, wondering if they will still be used in 20 years and what they might look like, and invites readers to share their thoughts in the comments.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The PlayStation controller's triangle, circle, cross, and square buttons were designed to have specific meanings.
2. The triangle represents the player's gaze and was intended to open a map or change the camera.
3. The square represents a sheet of paper and is used for menus and documents.
4. The circle and cross are inspired by the Japanese school system, where a red circle indicates a correct answer and a blue cross indicates an error.
5. The original PlayStation controller was designed to have the circle button as the main action button, but it was later changed to the cross button.
6. The dual analog controller was released in 1997, accompanied by only two compatible games.
7. The PlayStation 4 controller has a touchpad and a light bar that can be used to identify the player and provide immersion in games.
8. The Xbox controller was originally designed to have a rounded shape and a large logo, but it was later changed to a more rectangular shape.
9. The original Xbox controller was nicknamed "The Duke" due to its large size and awkward shape.
10. The Xbox One controller was released in 2013 and has a more ergonomic design.
11. The Nintendo Switch Pro controller has a hidden message that can be seen by lowering the right stick.
12. The Nintendo GameCube controller was the first wireless controller, released in 2002.
13. The Sega Dreamcast controller had a built-in screen that could display bonus information and mini-games.
14. The Oculus Rift controllers have hidden messages that can be seen by taking them apart.
15. Nintendo has produced 14 home consoles since the 1970s, not counting portable consoles.
Note: I excluded some of the text that seemed to be opinion-based or promotional in nature, focusing on verifiable facts about the design and features of various gaming controllers.