| Use PlayStation3 Gamepad with PC Games |  |
| Articles - Featured Guides | ||||||
| Written by Akim Green | ||||||
| Monday, 22 October 2012 | ||||||
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DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controller
Manufacturer: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Full Disclosure: The product sample used in this article has been self-supplied. Ever considered buying a gamepad for racing, sports, or split-screen PC games? Well, there are quite a few options from Microsoft, Logitech, and Saitek including the popular Logitech F710 and Saitek P3600. However, if you don't fancy the grip of the Xbox controller, don't agree with the colour scheme of the F710, or are just looking for something different, there is good news! The Sony DUALSHOCK 3 controller (designed for the PS3), with a little work can be made to work on your PC. Certain unique features of the PS3 controller, such as six-axes motion-sensing and pressure sensitive buttons, make it a viable competitor to the more popular options. In this article, Benchmark Reviews will demonstrate that one of the best controllers of all time can be used to score breathtaking goals, pull off amazing combos, and crush lap times in your favorite PC games.The PS3's controller is the third iteration in their Dualshock series. As well as refining the basic components of the controller, Sony has added wireless functionality and motion-sensing capabilities. Having undergone 15 years of evolution and being no more expensive than its Microsoft counterpart, it is definitely worth the attention of anyone considering buying a new gamepad.
As with most Sony products the hardware is cutting edge and promises durability, but how will the controller perform when connected to a PC? We will be using a free 3rd party software called DS3 tool to connect the PS3 controller to the test system. In this review we will test the controller's performance with an array of games and see just how reliable the hardware and connectivity software are. DUALSHOCK 3 Features
DUALSHOCK 3 Specifications
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Comments
1.Internet Connection *is not* required for DS3 tool, you simply have to run the program in "local mode", via a tiny download available here: #forums.motioninjoy.com/viewtopic.php?f=66&t=2885
Extract the archive into your motioninjoy install folder and then click local (at the top) after you load the program. Archive verified clean here: https://#virustotal.com/file/a4b397ae625ac21869ee6b8778cb72593bb98604170478c2dccf73337478eb17/analysis/
2. You stated that both controllers would cost the same for the intent of using on the PC. This is incorrect. The xbox360 controller requires a special wireless adapter to work with windows, and cannot connect via a USB cable as it does not transmit data, it only charges. You would need a wired 360 controller or the aforementioned wireless adapter. Either way, the PS3 controller is a clear winner here, using common bluetooth *and* being connectable over the USB cable alone.
3.You stated that the PS3 controller has the same number of buttons as the x360 controller. This is only true in 360 mode. If you run the controller in PS2/PS3 mode you can use the PS button in the middle as an additional button as well. There are plenty of titles that will work perfectly fine in PS2/PS3 mode in the drivers, including every emulator under the sun. Keep in mind you do not want to bind this button to an in game command that requires you to hold down the button for extended periods of time, as this will disconnect your controller!
Thanks for spreading the DS3 love! Great controller and great drivers!
-Morde