I'd reinstall the OS as a fresh reinstall. I don't believe you will be able to save your shortcuts, toolbars, but you might be able to save the background. Just go into the display, background properties and browse. IT should take you to the folder where the current image is stored.

Before you reinstall, I'd create a driver disk, and a software disk. On the driver disk, put all the drivers for your hardware, video, mouse, gamepad, etc... on the disk. Burn it and label it.

Then I'd do the same for any software you have installed like compression utilities, antivirus software, media players, etc... Burn it and label it.

Then I'd create a back up CD with Outlook settings, addresses, etc.. IE settings, favorites, etc... and so on. YOu might even be able to put these on a floppy. It depends on how large the files are that you backup.

Maybe it will fix this problem with the gamepads. IF not it could be OS related, like you need to try to get your hands on XP. ANd see if that fixes it.