Accessory guide · NexWave Games
PlayStation 1 controller with or without analog sticks: which one do you need?
On a photo of a PlayStation 1 set you sometimes see a controller without sticks, sometimes one with two sticks and the word DualShock. Both seem to belong to the same console. Still, some games make a difference. Which PS1 controller do you choose for an old favorite, and when is an analogue version really needed?
The first PS1 controller only had a directional cross
The original PlayStation controller has a D-pad, action buttons and shoulder buttons, but no analog sticks. Many early PS1 games are made around that control and play nice with it. If you find the first generation of racers, platformers or puzzle games, then a working digital controller can be exactly what you're looking for. The absence of sticks doesn't make him incomplete.
Check with a used copy that all buttons return, the directional cross responds in all directions and the cable at the plug is not damaged. A nice front says little about the contacts inside. Prefer to test a few minutes in a game where you often have to steer or move.
DualShock adds two sticks and vibration
Sony later released controllers with analogue control. The best known for the PS1 is DualShock: two sticks, one ANALOG button and vibration in games that support that. The sticks allow fluent steering in many 3D games. Vibration makes you feel collisions and other events, but only if the game sends a signal.
The ANALOG button may be important for older titles that expect a specific stand. When playing, look at the controller icons on the cover or in the manual. A DualShock offers more features, but does not force an early digital game suddenly to analog control. Sometimes you also play with the D-path of the DualShock just like before.
At Ape Escape, sticks are no luxury
Ape Escape is a well-known example of a PS1 game that requires DualShock. The two sticks are part of the control; a controller without sticks fails there. If you buy a specific game, check the requirements before choosing a single controller. That prevents you from discovering after the startup why your character doesn't do what you expect.
There is also an earlier Dual Analog controller. Because ads often use the same PS1 controller as a general term, you should ask for a picture of the exact model and the back. If you are looking for the familiar combination of sticks and vibration, choose a demonstrable working DualShock for PS1.
A controller for another PlayStation generation with almost the same shape is not automatically the model the seller means. Ask for a picture of the plug and the name on the housing. Especially with a bundle with multiple controllers you can check that the analogue controller is actually included and is not only on an example photo.
The best choice for your collection
For a wide PS1 collection, a tested DualShock is usually the most flexible option. Collect your original hardware or play mostly early games, then a digital controller is also valuable. Check the cable, plug and all buttons; also test the sticks for unwanted movement and vibration in a supported game. So you choose based on your games instead of just based on appearance.