Generic Gamepad

Generic 4 button Game Pad**

Generic Game Pad

**Manufactured By: Generic

Retail Price: $5-15 **

Review Date:10-11-98

Gravis started it all; or was it Nintendo? The game pad controller allows the user to control the X and Y axis's and 4 actions with the buttons. A number of companies that do not wish to identify their work have copied the originators basic design and offer these low cost controllers for sale.

Don't expect support, features or much hassle. AND do not expect to become a gaming master using one of these controllers. I find use of these basic game pads uncomfortable at best.

Features -

• 4 buttons
• 4 or 8 way D-Pad

System Requirements-

PC computer, gameport

Price -

$5-15 could be put towards a better controller offering more features, support and comfort.

Performance -

Nothing noteworthy comes from the use of a generic game pad. There are very few complications with setup within games but you cannot take advantage of some of the available game options that other controllers offer. As with most game pads, you will not have incremental control of the axis's. This makes it difficult to control movement in games where accuracy counts.

Setup -

Setup of a generic 4 button game pad is simple. Under Windows 95/98 you select/calibrate under the Control Panel and no drivers are necessary. Under DOS the game usually has a configuration option to setup the controller.

**Software -

**Very few generic 4 button game pads come with any software. Drivers are not necessary. Occasionally they will be bundled with outdated demos.

Documentation -

You cannot expect too much from the documentation of a generic anything. If provided, it will offer basic setup tips.

Overall Rating -

I do not recommend using a generic game pad. The control offered with a basic game pad can be achieved with the keyboard.