Overview
Not just on or off—how much. Analogue sticks measured input pressure, translating into variable movement speed and precise camera control. The N64 controller pioneered this for 3D games; PlayStation’s DualShock followed with dual sticks. This input method made 3D navigation intuitive, enabling genres from platformers to shooters to function in three dimensions.
Fast facts
- Pioneer: Nintendo 64 controller (1996).
- Standard: PlayStation DualShock (1997).
- Purpose: Precise 3D navigation.
- Legacy: Industry standard.
How it works
| Component | Function |
|---|
| Potentiometer | Position sensing |
| X/Y axes | 2D input plane |
| Pressure range | Variable values |
| Centre return | Spring mechanism |
Movement translation
| Input | Result |
|---|
| Light pressure | Walk |
| Full deflection | Run |
| Direction | 360° movement |
| Camera stick | View control |
| Console | Design |
|---|
| N64 | Centre-mounted single |
| DualShock | Dual thumb sticks |
| Dreamcast | Single with triggers |
| GameCube | Offset dual |
Genre impact
| Genre | Benefit |
|---|
| 3D platformers | Speed control |
| Racing | Steering precision |
| Shooters | Aim sensitivity |
| Flight | Throttle/steering |
Evolution
| Development | Change |
|---|
| Click function | L3/R3 buttons |
| Haptics | Adaptive triggers |
| Precision | Higher resolution |
| Durability | Drift issues |
See also