Controller Experiences

[Sketchasaurus]

Three controllers came to mind, these are the ones that I've been exposed to for 3D gaming.
///N64///
Very few games for the N64 would make you switch between analog and d-pad controls, in games like Super Smash Bros. the only thing the d-pad did was taunt, and it was only one of the directions anyway. The C-Buttons were interesting and they made sense as say, doing different moves in Banjo-Kazooie, but as a camera controller it was kinda clumsy.
///Gamecube///
I think that the C-stick was underutilized for the Gamecube, it could have easily been used as a camera joystick as we know them today, that aside, I still enjoy how the GCN Controller felt, especially the buttons: they were quick and responsive and the controller was just overall comfortable to handle. The d-pad was a bit weak, but it still worked when it was needed. I still use the controller when I ever play Brawl or games that are compatible with it.

///X-Box 360///
One of my only complaints about the XBox 360 controller is that the D-pad isn't quite as precise as those found on some Nintendo controllers, also the RB/LB Buttons are a bit too rigid and don't glide nicely like the triggers, they make a kind of uncomfortable click which I'm not particularly fond of. Other than that, It's an all-around awesome controller, it's comfortable to handle for long amounts of time and the analog sticks are in nice, natural-feeling positions.

I also think that color coding the buttons is a good idea, especially since it's easier to see color prompts for QTEs than struggling to even see what symbol the PS3 wants you to press. It also helps that the Triggers and Bumpers are different shapes and named appropriately instead of the L1 and L2 nonsense where you have to be reminded which ones are which if you're not very familiar with the controller. The 360 controller just lends itself to a more natural feeling when it comes to becoming acquainted to it.