Revolution Advanced has posted an excellent look at game console controllers over the years, “from the days of Atari to [Nintendo] Revolution.” It’s a great piece that may prove educational for the uninitiated. The only major lack in the article is the curious absence of the Mattel Intellivision controller.
My favorite console controller of all is probably the Playstation / PS2 Dual Shock. But for FPS games, nothing beats the good ole’ keyboard and mouse.