Namco was responsible for the very first pack-in game included with the PlayStation: Ridge Racer. Well before the PlayStation was released, Namco was working on an analog controller to be used with Ridge Racer and to be supported by future titles. They came up with a very original idea in the NeGcon, but unfortunately it's not the controller it could have been.

The design is a little strange. It is basically flat, with the exception of the big round twist column in the middle, and small indentations running down the back of the handgrips. The buttons are placed in a layout similar to the standard PlayStation controller, but the X and the square have been replaced by analog I and II buttons, respectively. They've also replaced the circle and triangle buttons with A and B. The d-pad is where it should be and the start button is just below it. Finally, there are only two shoulder buttons, L and R, which stick too far up out of the pad. Most of the buttons are easily accessible, but when you are using the analog buttons, A and B are difficult to use.

Comfort doesn't play a big part in this controller's design. It doesn't fill your hand like most next-generation controllers and it always feels a bit awkward. This isn't really a problem because most people will form a different grip than they use on a standard pad so the twisting is easier. The best way to use it is to grip the left half in your left hand, and turn using your right.

The big attraction of this controller is the analog function. A majority of games will let you customize the amount of throw in the controller allows before it responds to a twist, as well as the sensitivity of the movement itself. The I and II buttons are generally used for the gas and brake, but may be used for other things depending on the game you're playing.

Playing with this controller takes some getting used to. When you first use it for driving, it's difficult -- but fun -- because it's a new experience. By the time the novelty wears off, you'll realize that you're able to drive better with the NeGcon than with a regular digital pad, so it's definitely worth the time invested in getting the hang of it.

If you're a race fan who's tried everything else, and you're looking for something new, check the NeGcon out. However, If you haven't tried any of the NeGcon compatible steering wheels, go get one of those instead and leave this thing on the shelf. They provide a much more natural driving experience and lack the steep learning curve of this little oddity.