Paddle

Atari game paddle1. More commonly known as a game paddle or gamepad, a paddle is an input device commonly used with games that may contain various buttons used to steer and utilize different options in a game. All console game systems utilize a paddle or gamepad for control. In the picture to the right, is an example of a game paddle used with the Atari 2600.

2. The term paddle may also be used to describe various handheld devices that are capable of controlling a function on a computer or electronic device.

Also see: Game definitions, Gamepad, Hardware definitions, Input device, Joystick, Yoke