Improve your joypad...

The 'Joypad' 'SixAxis' controller that comes with the first Sony PlayStation 3 models improved the L2 and R2 buttons from the 'Dual Shock2' PS2 controller. In fact, they turned from buttons into trigger-style controls as found in slot-car racing controllers - so instead of just moving inwards, they rotate slightly. This improves the control over how much pressure you apply, which then translates into better control over the speed, thrust, power etc in the game.

The more recently released 'Dual Shock III' controller adds vibration, and there are differing opinions as to whether or not the L2 and R2 buttons have changed: slightly softer/grippier plastic, or slightly rougher surface finish, slightly harder to press versus slightly easier to press. I'm not sure if manufacturing tolerances, different moulds or mould wear, account for the these differences in perception. They feel the same to me...

But the triggers do have one problem. They are convex (rounded outwards) rather than concave (dished inwards) and so it is quite easy for your fingers to slip off them, particularly when the trigger is used as the throttle/accelerator control in a driving game. Although the surface of the trigger is textured, this only partially helps.

So I was intrigued to hear about add-on accessories ('non-slip trigger enhancements' is how the manufacturer describes them!) for the PS3 controller that turn the convex surface into concave by adding little bits of extra plastic. The 'real triggers for PS3' just clip onto the existing trigger, and can be removed if required. The mechanical design is very good - once clipped on they are stable and it takes quite a bit of enthusiastic trigger pressing to cause them to come off in the middle of game play. Best of all, there's no glue and no drilling required, and once removed, the controller is as it was beforehand.

All in all, a bit of an unfair advantage!

The picture compares a PS3 'SixAxis' controller fitted the the 'Real triggers' on the left, with a plain PS3 'SixAxis' controller on the right.

The 'Real tiggers for PS3' are made by GioTeck. I got mine from Amazon.