A game controller is an input device used to control a video game. A controller is typically connected to a personal computer or a video game console. A game controller can be a keyboard, mouse, joystick, paddle, gamepad or any other device that can receive input. Some of these devices, such as keyboards and mice, are actually generic input devices and their use is not strictly limited to that of a game controller.

Game controllers can be used to govern the movement or actions of elements in a video or computer game. The type of element controlled depends upon the game. A typical element controlled would be the game hero.

Example game controllers are the Gravis Gamepad and the Microsoft Sidewinder.