Saitek GM2 Action Pad & Game Mouse

List Price: $49.95 Discount Price: $69.99

Features:

• Combined game pad and mouse
• Programmability with up to 40 assignable commands
• Pre-defined game profiles available on CD-ROM and from the Saitek website
• Fully programmable using Saitek Gaming Extensions software
• Compatible with PCs with USB port

Accessories:
Koss R-10 Home Headphones	Monster Cable MP AV600 Power Protector	Monster PC700 Computer PowerCenter¿ with Surge Protection	Panasonic RP-HT970 Vibration Series Home Theater Headphones	Koss Pro-4AA Studio Quality Headphones

Customer Reviews:

Specialty pad for those keyboard PLUS mouse games [Posted on 2001-04-03]
I bought this controller pair for a SPECIFIC reason: to play Soldier of Fortune competitively online. Player movement is enhanced due to the hat control used in conjunction with the mouse. My juke moves have caused a few opponents to accuse me of cheating, hee hee!

There are a lot of options controlled by the keyboard in this game, and nearly impossible to use thoroughly without taking your eyes off the screen (and almost certainly getting fragged). The programmable game pad solves this problem quite nicely, with a Shift key to double the button functions and macro capabilities as well. Oh, it fits your hand nicely, too. The wheeled mouse even has a 4-way POV thumb switch (in the heat of battle, I can't ever remember to use it though).

USB makes it a snap to connect (as the mouse connects to the gamepad itself, not your computer) and the gamepad has built-in storage for unused cord length. You can program (easily) to your heart's delight or use a large selection of pre-set profiles available on Saitek's webpage for your favorite games.

I can only get 4-way movement out of the "8-way" hat switch, or I'd rate it a five!! A nice value for TWO controllers, as the mouse will function ably with any software when connected, but still works side-by-side with an existing attached mouse, thus avoiding those annoying switch-outs.

Excellent concept- Falls far too short in its implementation [Posted on 2001-08-06]
I was looking for something like this to play keyboard/mouse type of games (I'm a Diablo II junkie).

Unfortunately, the pad has the feel of a really cheap game pad (well, probably worse). Don't expect to use the pad's 8-way control or the mouse's 4-way button correctly. You should expect to get about half their functionality (4 and 2) - don't expect any accuracy if you try to use more.

If you're a Diablo II player (or play another game that requires the use of many keyboard buttons) don't expect this to fulfill your need to remove the keyboard completely from the gameplay; so if you want to replace the keyboard, look elsewhere - just not enough functionality here.

Excellent idea though and I really do like the idea of the mult-way button, but just very poor execution. I don't know how good Microsoft's implemention is, so I can't compare the two; however, my next step is to get a better mouse with some more functionality (ie 1 or 2 more programmable buttons).

Solid and fast responding [Posted on 2003-09-02]
I was going to buy the Belkin hand pad, but found this one at a local retailer for really cheap. I figured for that price I could take the risk. Boy was I surprised! Not only was it worth more than I had anticipated, I couldn't game without it anymore. Once you figure out how to program the buttons, this little number is GREAT!!! Unfortunately, it is difficult getting this thing to work with the Cyborg Feedback joystick from Saitek.

Throw out the keyboard -- [Posted on 2003-12-03]
I have never liked the keyboard for use with action/shooter type games (Doom, Unreal, Elite Forces)..
I would have to look down at the keys and my fingers would move and it was very fustrating.

I was actually looking for a mouse with a hat where the scroll
wheel usually is (I never found one) when I stumbled upon the
Saitek GM3 Action Pad.

The reviews were mixed but I decided to buy it.

It works GREAT!! I think the SHIFT key could be better placed..it so far from the other keys I don't use it. But everything else is AWESOME! The hat keeps you from having to press the keys on the keyboard and the scroll wheel is great for strafing..and the other buttons are placed fairly well.

One thing I have noticed. I used to have a larger desk and I had room to place the GM3 at the 2:00/8:00 position for the most comfort. I now have a much smaller desk and I have to place the controller almost straight up and down. It's harder to get to some of the keys in that position. I want my old desk back!

I recommend this for any 3rd person shooter game!

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