Saitek Dual Analog Gamepad

I used this gamepad largely for EA...

Strengths: Good sturdy feel. Buttons press well.

Weakness: Poorly designed D-pad. Would prefer two sets of shoulder buttons as opposed to an extra pair of buttons on the far right. Hurts hand to use.

I used this gamepad largely for EA sports games, where one often has to press both a shoulder button and the D-Pad at the same time. I have fairly large hands, and yet it always felt like I had to reach too far to use both the D-Pad and the left shoulder button at the same time. The D-Pad is just too large, at least 1 1/2 times the size of any normal gamepad's D-Pad. Also, I'd prefer two sets of...
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I used this gamepad largely for EA sports games, where one often has to press both a shoulder button and the D-Pad at the same time.

I have fairly large hands, and yet it always felt like I had to reach too far to use both the D-Pad and the left shoulder button at the same time. The D-Pad is just too large, at least 1 1/2 times the size of any normal gamepad's D-Pad.

Also, I'd prefer two sets of shoulder buttons, like almost any other dual-analog gamepad, namely the PS2 gamepad, which I assume most dual-analogs are trying to emulate. My left hand hurt even after a mere 10 minutes of gameplay. One problem with the extra two buttons to go along with the standard four, replacing the two rear shoulder buttons, is that, even though they are smaller, I still kept accidentally hitting them when reaching for one of the normal four buttons.

If two shoulder buttons were added and the D-Pad was made smaller, and perhaps the two analog controls were moved in slightly, this would be a very quality gamepad. Everything else works well and it feels great to use, until I start needing to use shoulder buttons, which is mostly what makes my hand hurt. Instead, I plan to seek out a different gamepad, perhaps a little smaller with two sets of shoulder buttons.

By foogray - Jul 11, 2004

You get what you pay for

Strengths: Six buttons and great feel

Weakness: Depending on usage, it won't last long

I am a Madden Football fanatic! I have purchased no less than four of these gamepads. Unfortunately, the "D" (up, down, right, left) control breaks off. I rarely used the joysticks but after a few months of cutting left and right that little circle detaches from the pitiful stem that holds it to the game. It wasn't expensive so, I guess I got what I paid for.

By revfoster - Dec 8, 2006