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A game controller is an input device that sends commands to a computer or entertainment system for playing video games, featuring components like thumbsticks for movement, buttons and triggers for actions, and a D-pad for precise directional control. In a broader computing context, a "controller" can also refer to hardware that manages communication between a computer and other devices, but when discussing video games, it typically refers to the handheld peripheral.

Key Components of a Game Controller

Thumbsticks: These analog joysticks provide granular control for movement and camera control in games.

Buttons: Various buttons are used for initiating actions, such as shooting, jumping, or activating abilities.

Triggers: Often located on the top of the controller, triggers are frequently used for actions like accelerating or braking in racing games.

D-Pad (Directional Pad): This is a digital input that allows for precise movement in cardinal directions (up, down, left, right), common in platformers and older games.

The primary function of a game controller is to provide a user interface for interacting with a video game. It translates physical movements and button presses into digital signals that the game software interprets to control in-game actions and characters.