what is a gamepad ？

A gamepad, game controller, joypad, or video game controller is a peripheral device designed to be connected to a computer or console gaming system. It has multiple buttons and may have one or two mini joysticks. A gamepad is used for playing video games of many types, including sports, first-person shooters, role-playing, and others. The picture shows an example of the Xbox 360 controller for Windows and a popular gamepad for the computer and consoles.

Gamepads is the primary peripheral device used on console gaming systems like the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Nintendo WII. Some portable gaming systems have a gamepad built into the gaming device itself, like the Sony PSP. However, some gamepads are also made to work with a computer, typically featuring a USB connection.

The first gamepad was introduced in 1985, first by Nintendo, then by Sega, for use with their video gaming systems. Since then, many forms of joypads have been made and sold, but all still have a similar design.