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Gravis Xterminator Gamepad

Gravis · 1999 · PC Gamepad
A comfortable, programmable all-rounder with an incredible analog stick that almost makes you forget the mushy buttons and paper-thin manual.
4.5
Excellent
POCG VERDICT
A versatile gamepad that nails comfort and analog precision but stumbles on button feel and documentation.
Gravis delivers a programmable pad with an outstanding analog stick, easy setup, and an amazing warranty, but membrane buttons and a six-page manual hold it back.
About This Hardware

The Gravis Xterminator is a programmable PC gamepad released by Advanced Gravis in 1999. Aimed at gamers who want a single controller capable of handling multiple genres, it connects via a standard 15-pin gameport and requires no keyboard passthrough. The pad features a unique proportional directional pad (PDP) that uses a ball-and-socket pivot for analog‑like precision, an 8‑way digital D‑pad, a sliding throttle, and a total of 13 buttons including two microswitched triggers on the underside. On‑board programming software lets users map keyboard commands to buttons and save multiple keysets for different games, launching directly without a special interface. Build quality is solid, with two weighted steel balls in the handles providing balance. The unit carries an unusually generous warranty: a 90‑day satisfaction guarantee and a full three‑year manufacturer warranty. Compatibility covers Windows 95 and any DOS title that supports GRIP.

Specifications
InterfaceGameport (15-pin)
ConnectivityWired, ~6 ft cable
Directional Controls8-way digital D-pad · Proportional Directional Pad (ball-joint analog)
Buttons13 (9 face, 2 shoulder flippers, 2 microswitched handle triggers)
Additional Controls8-way hat switch · Sliding throttle
ProgrammableYes (Gravis Keyset Manager software)
CompatibilityWindows 95 · DOS (GRIP supported)
Warranty3-year manufacturer · 90-day satisfaction guarantee
Hardware Info
ManufacturerGravis
CategoryPC Gamepad
Released1999
MSRP$49.95
ReviewedJune 14, 2026
How to Get One Today
Price
MSRP: $49.95
Notes & Warnings
These show up on eBay regularly, often for $15–30 used depending on condition. Look for listings that include the original driver CD or confirm the software is downloadable from Gravis archives. The proportional pad is the most delicate part; ask the seller if it still centers cleanly. As with all gameport devices, you’ll need an older sound card or a USB gameport adapter to use it on a modern PC.
Editor's Note
This piece was restored from the POCG archive and rewritten in the Maniac voice. Original score: 8.5/10, converted to 4.5/5 on the POCG scale.