Saturday, 8 October 2011

PlayStation Controller = Incredible Interface

I cannot go past the PlayStation controller for effective user interface.

Earlier this week I held one of these for the first time in a long time and I could not believe how amazing the device was, both in terms of interface and ergonomics - factors which, in a successful design like this are totally interdependent.

The buttons are designed so that they are easy to push and instantly reload, enabling rapid movement, without discomfort due to their flat surface area. They are placed in such a way that they are all able to be used without the consumer stretching their hand at all. Furthermore, the PS3 version has many advantages over the PS2 model including the trigger style shoulder buttons which create a lot more interface enjoyment than its predecessor.

I honestly have not felt more comfortable holding another device, especially another console controller, which brings me to my next point.

Whilst for me the PlayStation controller is the epitome of its kind, I thoroughly despise what Xbox has to offer.

It is both ugly and difficult to use, I feel like its interface does not need to be as complicated as it is, or at least the buttons could be positioned more effectively.

I'd like to think that my opinion is completely objective however, as I was brought up using a PS1 I feel that sentimental value may be a part of the equation.

Ashlee Shepherd

3 comments:

  1. i got a PS3 at home and i think the interface of these controllers are one of the best, the good thing about these controllers is that when you hold it, you can easily push the buttons without to move in great distance or chance your hand position.
    in fact if you compare PS to XBOX, i regcon XBOX controllers are designed to fit the curve of your hand, but that never get perfectly and varies from people to people. While as PS controller fits everyone's hand and just so amazingly comfortable. further more, i always like these simple combination of geometric shapes in PS3 controllers.

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  2. I know its a contentious argument but i couldn't agree with you more. The Playstation controller just feels right. I think it comes down to the shape of the controller and the way it is supported by your palms as much as it is the placement of the buttons.

    James

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  3. I am sorry, but I must disagree with you. I most certainly prefer the XBOX controller over the PS controller. I own both a PS2 and an XBOX360 and I must say the XBOX controller is a much more comfortable controller to use. It fits the hand well, all buttons are easily reached it just feels right. I don't know, there something about the PS controller that i dislike. I think its how small and thin the hand holds are. I feel it is too cramped and the buttons are too blocky. Maybe it is just me, but i definitely prefer the XBOX controller over the PS controller, however I must admit the L2 and R2 trigger buttons are cool on the PS controller.

    Razan Sappideen

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