Microsoft SideWinder Game Pad USB

I will admit I have a penchant for the games of the 80's and 90's. When I don't feel like pulling the system out, this is what i use to play on my computer. The upsides 1) Shoulder buttons so SNES friendly 2) "abc" buttons for easy Sega systems 3) instantly recognized in every windows I have used from 98, Me, xp, 2000, vista, 7 4) At least in their heyday, not expensive 5) durable as can be, no sticking or broken buttons ever in over 10 years of ownership Downsides 1) Simple, not enough buttons for modern systems with double shoulders, etc 2) not evenly sized abc / xyz buttons (abc are bigger) 3) not for me, but you probably need a decent hand / thumb size to operate.

This USB sidewinder is one of the best controllers ever made. With 6 top-side buttons and 2 triggers, its the perfect controller for a variety of games that don't require 2 analog sticks or 4 trigger buttons. I user a XBox 360 Wireless controller for Windows for ones that need more buttons or analog sticks. But none of them compare to this. The only better controller is not feasible. Its a genesis 6-button controller for normal use and a capcom/genesis 6 button arcade stick for fighting games. If you're one of the lucky ones like myself, you have Genesis->USB adaptors. If not get this Sidewinder

The major selling points: 1. There are lots of buttons, but they are all well-placed, so I rarely hit the wrong one. 2. Even if you have small hands, you can still comfortably use it, meaning it's fine for young adults, women and men. It's also easy to hold and not heavy, yet sturdy. 3. It truly is plug and play: no drivers needed when I loaded it onto a Win98SE, so I assume anything after that will be the same. 4. The price is definitely reasonable. Don't be scared away just because it's Microsoft. It works and it works well. However, I don't suggest you try to use it with a USB hub. I've heard of it having some problems with those. If you stick with a traditional USB slot that plugs right into the board, you'll be fine. This is a safe buy.

This gamepad has been my favorite for Sega Genesis emulation for over 15 years. The gamepad first came with the old gameport joystick connection, but with Windows Vista came the elimination of support for the gamepad joystick connection. I now use the USB version with just as much ease in configuration as the older version. This controller is nearly the same as the 6 button Sega Genesis controller so is ideal for those older games.

If you are looking for a 6-button layout for classic games/emulators, this may be your best option. The only weakness is the D-Pad, which is adequate for most games but not desirable for fighting games. Still, the only superior option, IMO, is a genuine Sega Saturn controller. A genuine SS controller + USB adapter adds input lag. A Genuine SS USB controller is three figures. The Sidewinder USB is a more readily available more affordable option for all but the most hardcore.

Do not buy from these sellers. I would give 0 stars if I could. I ordered this gamepad because of the USB connection. The sellers even shows photos of the item in question with a USB connection. When the item arrived it was a gameport connection. I already own this version and needed the USB version. DO NOT BUY FROM THESE SELLERS THEY ARE A SCAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Not a USB

Works with Windows 7 on some old games I had in compatibilty mode i had the gamepad about a month