Controllers

Real Controller w/ Adapter

The best way to emulate a console is by using the actual controller for that console. Here are some different adapters that'll let you use those controllers on your PC:

• Mayflash adapters work well and are relatively cheap.
• Bliss-Box is made to order and probably the best adapters you can buy, but they don't come cheap.
• RetroUSB, good adapters, not the best prices.
• RaphNet for Nintendo controllers.

PlayStation DualShock 3

Why the DualShock over the 360 or FX10 series? For one thing, it has the best D-pad out of the lot, but it also has 10-bit precision analog sticks, pressure sensitive buttons, and it can be used wirelessly with just a Bluetooth adapter. You can also emulate the 360 controller, so it can play PC games natively too.

Use the new XInput Wrapper SCP. Do not use MotioninJoy if you can.

Logitech FX10 Series

The Logitech F310, F510 and F710 are all pretty good controllers. The main differences between them are as follows:

• F310 is wired and has no rumble ($25)
• F510 is wired and has rumble (is also no longer being made and is $65 for some reason)
• F710 is wireless and has rumble ($50)

If you're going down this road, the Logitech F310 is the cheapest solution on this page at $25.

Xbox 360

The 360 controller does offer good ergonomics and many prefer its analog stick layout over other controllers. However, the poor D-pad means it's lackluster when it comes to emulating older consoles. Some don't like the dpad, and some think that the analog placement and "ergonomic" design are annoying.

Note: You will need a wireless adapter to use a wireless controller on a PC.