A gamepad, also known as a game controller, joypad, or video game controller, is a peripheral device designed to connect to a computer or console gaming system. It is used for playing video games of many types, including sports, first-person shooters, role-playing, and others. A gamepad typically consists of buttons, triggers, thumbsticks, and sometimes a directional pad (D-pad). The buttons are typically used for actions like jumping or shooting, while the triggers are often used for accelerating or braking in racing games. The thumbsticks provide analog control for movement, and the D-pad allows for precise directional input.

Gamepads are the primary peripheral device used on console gaming systems, like the Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo platforms. Some portable gaming systems have a gamepad built into the gaming device itself, like the Nintendo Switch. Many gamepads are also made to work with a computer, often using a USB (universal serial bus) connection.

The first gamepad was introduced in 1985 by Nintendo and Sega for use with their video gaming systems. Since then, many forms of gamepads have been made and sold, but all still have a similar design. Gamepads provide analog control through thumbsticks, allowing for more precise movement in games. They are also ergonomically designed for comfortable long-term use and offer tactile feedback through buttons and triggers.