PC game pads?

[SargentRock]

I have a computer connected to my big screen at home so I'm anxious to give this a try. I've never tried a computer game with a controller before so I'm honestly not sure if I'll care for it or not. Would anyone recommend a particular brand? Can I use a PS3 controller (since I already have those on my PS3 connected to the same TV) or should I get a dedicated PC gamepad?

If anyone knows of a good online guide for this I'd appreciate the help. Thanks!

[Taglia17]

Xbox360's pad is the most comfortable one if you have to choose and, like Akira said, it's a sort of plug and play.

[Arthur Mitchell]

yes, obvious

[King of the Nights]

I'm still using the very first XBOX 360 controller I got over a decade ago. I'm actually shocked it still works well

[MuttonJohnTTV]

Most games were made to support the 360 controller.
It has been plug and play for every game I have ever tried to play with it.

Other controlers you have to monkey around with the button mapping.

[El Botijo]

I have browsed a little bit through the vast internet, and it looks like some of the options are difficult to work with. Some people are upset with MotionInJoy, aka DS3Tool:
1. Calls its chinese home (you cannot use that software/driver without internet)
2. Takes control of the Bluetooth adapter (your bluetooth enabled keyboard or mouse cannot connect to your computer)
3. Does not uninstall correctly (bluetooth adapter does not get normal drivers anymore, although there is documentation how to get these back)
4. Might lose connection to PC, and even cause some unexpected computer reboots
5. Console does power up if using the USB cable (controller tries to connect through bluetooth when it loses USB connection, so console starts up when it receives the call)
Now, this is the internet wisdom. It might or might not be all true.
So, I stand my ground: if you want peace of mind, spend a little bit of money on a Xbox360 wired pad.