| From a cosmetic standpoint, the PS2 game controller (titled the DualShock) is very similar to the DualShock controller that was released during the original PlayStation system's generation. For example, the directional pad and the distinctive PlayStation buttons (triangle, circle, square, and X) remain in their original locations. The most notable change to the PS2's DualShock controller was the color change from grey to black. On the inside though, a number of upgrades have been made to the PS2 controller. Analog pressure sensitivity has been integrated into the controller for the face and shoulder buttons. Gamers will also notice more feedback from the controller when playing games, as the PS2's DualShock controller features two additional levels of vibration. When the design for the PS2 game controller was first revealed, many gamers were pleased to see that little had changed from the original PlayStation controller's design. Others were disappointed that one nagging problem hadn't been rectified. For many, the location of the thumb sticks is less than ideal, as it can make operating the sticks and holding onto the controller at the same time rather awkward. For these people, purchasing one of the many third-party controllers that are available could be a worthwhile investment. While most of these controllers change little aside from the facade of the controller, some are wireless, and others slightly change the DualShock configuration. Many of these aftermarket controllers are priced higher than a standard PS2 controller, so if you're looking to save money, you may want to buy PS2 game controllers used rather than brand new. |