The interface between a video game and a user is usually a game controller (Watcher). A game controller is an input device that is used in videos games and computer games (Shelly and Vermaat 270). According to Watcher, game controllers receive gamer movements and manipulations then proceeds to convert it into data that the video game or computer game can interpret. Examples of game controllers include joysticks and wheels, gamepads, dance pads, motion-sensing controllers and light guns.
Joysticks and Wheels
Joysticks and wheels use flight and driving simulation software. A joystick is a handheld vertical lever that is mounted on a base. The levers on the joystick consist of buttons that are pressed to initiate different events. A wheel is similar to the steering wheel of a vehicle and is used to simulate driving a vehicle. In certain cases, the wheel has foot pedals for braking and accelerating.
Game Pads
This is held by the hands and is used to control the actions and motions of a player in the computer game (Shelly, Vermaat, and Quansey 196). Wired connections and wireless technology are used in game.
Motion-Sensing Game Controllers
According to (Shelly, Vermaat, and Quansey 196), motion-sensing game controllers provide the user with the ability to direct on-screen elements via the use of a handheld input device through the air. The user can direct the on-screen elements in different predetermined directions. These controllers use both wired and wireless technology.
Light Guns and Dance Pads
Dance pads are used in music video games. A dance pad is usually flat, and users use their feet to send instructions to the video game. Light guns are used to shoot targets in the video game. A light game uses a light signal, which communicates with the on-screen object (Shelly and Vermaat 270).
Works Cited
Shelly, Gary B., Misty Vermaat, and Jeffrey J. Quasney. Discovering computers: living in a
Digital world: fundamentals. 2011 ed. Boston, Mass.: Course Technology Cengage
Learning, 2011. Print.
Shelly, Gary B., & Misty Vermaat. Discovering computers: your interactive guide to the
Digital world. Complete ed. Boston, Mass.: Course Technology/Cengage Learning, 2012. Print.
Watcher, Dark. "History of the Game Controller | Video Game Console Library." Home Page |
Video Game Console Library. N.p., N.d. Web. 1 Oct. 2012.
