Features:
- Dual analog gamepad for racing and first-person shooter games
- Progressive operation means more response the harder you push
- 2 analog controllers for separate acceleration and maneuvering
- 13 quick-action functions
- Compatible with all USB-equipped PC and Macintosh computers
Description:
PC gamepads can be a difficult peripheral to get right--care needs to be put into the design, the layout of pads and buttons, and the appropriate software interface. Guillemot's ThrustMaster Dual Analog Gamepad pretty much nails it. The sturdily constructed controller features 13 action buttons, 2 analog sticks, an 8-way directional pad, and both USB and gameport interfaces. Thanks to USB, installation of the controller proves simple--you just plug it in, install the software, and play. Molded hard rubber makes the gamepad comfortable to use, even for long periods of time. Designed like PlayStation-style gamepads, the action buttons include four on the right side of the pad, two triggers below, and four on the front. Another button rests below the two sticks, which also serve as action buttons in digital mode. While well positioned, no labels or numbers differentiate the buttons, so you'll need to get to know them. In analog mode, the sticks work very well for racing games, such as Superbike World Championship--using one to steer and the other for acceleration and braking. Although Guillemot touts the gamepad as ideal for first-person shooters (and it works well with the sticks in analog mode), we found its best uses are for racing and action gameplay. The ThrustMaster keyboard emulation software makes it a snap to use the controller for a variety of games, from Falcon 4.0 to Half-Life, via preset commands. You can also create your own presets easily with the Dual Analog software. It would have been nice to have more information in the physical manual about calibration and configuration, but the software manual included with the gamepad covers the issue thoroughly. This gamepad meets all the standards of a PC controller, and with its sleek design, well-positioned buttons and pads, and excellent software, the ThrustMaster Dual Analog Gamepad hits the ground running and doesn't stop. J. Curtis Pros:
- Both digital and analog mode
- USB interface
- Comfortable design
Cons:
- Limited manual
- Buttons not labeled
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