Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller: Great For Being Lazy

As a guy that's had more time than I want to admit, playing video games on systems from the Magnavox Odyssey to the Xbox 360, I have had differing experiences with controllers. The Sony Playstation 2 had some outstanding controllers, that took a lot of abuse over the years, while the ones on my Sega Dreamcast were just too bulky. They didn't fit in my hands properly, and considering I have rather large hands, this could cause a lot of issues for many gamers. This had to be cleared up now, because I've mentioned the big hands and I do have big feet as well. At least my shoes and gloves are big.

My initial impression of the Xbox 360 controller was, damn that thing is huge! It reminded me of the Dreamcast, and it seriously dwarfed the size of the old NES controllers that I use on an occasional basis. However, these were my first wireless controllers, so I was already excited with the idea of not being able to pull my console off of the shelf in the middle of an adrenaline rush of a game. Initial set-up is straightforward, as you have to do is install two AA batteries in the back, and slide them into place. This compartment is large sized as well, but it does not interfere with your game playing ability, and the only way you'll notice it is if you reach for it behind the controller.

The wireless function was impressive enough for me, but I am so happy with the Xbox 360 Light. This is in the upper middle part of the controller, and you push this ring of light to turn on and off your Xbox 360 from the couch. As someone who's proud to admit that I'm almost too lazy to admit I'm lazy, this is one of the greatest inventions of all time. In fact, I'm honored to have a remote control for the video game system, but for the next console I'm hoping for a six disc changer. It is neat being able to turn on/off your system from the couch, and to turn of the controller if you want to switch to something else.

If you are worried about batteries with a wireless controller, you can rest assured here. I have been using the Xbox 360 for over two months now heavily, and they have not needed to be replaced yet. Some of the high school kids that I work with for a church group, have told me that I can expect at least 3-4 months of service from regular alkaline batteries. The range on this controller is awesome. I have actually turned my Xbox 360 off from around thirty feet away, and I have never experienced any interruptions during game play. You can play the Xbox 360 from numerous angles, and it just never misses a beat.

After getting over my initial impressions of staggering size, I have learned to appreciate this controller. Its actually now my favorite, because while the PS2 had great controllers, this one is exceptional. The added bulk actually means less slipping out of your hands while engaged in a heavy movement fighting game, and I like how the palms can wrap right around the sides. The buttons are all easily accessible, and I just love the block buttons and triggers on top. They are separated enough that you won't accidentally hit one, and they are simple enough that they give you every opportunity, to perform well in any game you are playing.

The green a, red b, blue x, and yellow y buttons are placed in a reasonable sequence. The green is the most commonly used button, and I like how its on the bottom of the upper right hand area of the controller. These buttons are a lot stronger than previous models of controllers that I used, and they can take a lot of abuse. Same goes for the pads and arrow toggler, and I've accidentally dropped this controller on a couple of occasions. While I'm not going to allow one of my friends who chucks controllers to play with these, I think they are built in such a manner, that they can take a lot of harsh treatment before they fail to work.

I am very happy with these controllers, and think they are the best ever made. They even look cool, with the white color allowing the bright colored buttons to stand out a bit. They are a vast improvement over similarly large controllers, and the size doesn't cause me any problems, and allows me to get even more immersed in whatever video game I'm playing. This is a winner, and its wonderful to see Microsoft coming out with another advancement in computer technology. You can find these at any electronic store, and while there are some imitators, I will be sticking with the genuine article.