Microsoft is rumoured to have tested Xbox and pc for cross platform compatibility here is a short synopsis from an insider.

“I've heard from reliable sources that during the development they brought together the best console gamers to play mediocre PC gamers at the same game... and guess what happened? They pitted console gamers with their 'console' controller, against PC gamers with their keyboard and mouse,”
“The console players got destroyed every time. So much so that it would be embarrassing to the XBOX team in general had Microsoft launched this initiative.”

I've owned a PS3 for 4 years and never used the controller after the first few days. I only play racing games on PS3 with Wheel setup and watch Blu-rays with PS3 remote. If Skyrim was console only I would never have bought it. To each his own but I'm an old school keyboard and mouse guy.

Congrats that is for online multiplayer.....how do you destroy other players in a single player game?

You don't see how the principle would carry over to all types of games? You don't see the obvious conclusion that the PC gamers dominated because their control system is superior? Have you got rocks in your head?

Is anyone here using a gamepad (not 360 controller) for skyrim? If so, are you able to shield bash or zoom in with ur bow? My game can't seem to handle me holding both triggers and I don't know how to fix this.

Played Morrowind on Xbox, played Oblivion on 360, and began Skyrim on the 360. So when I traded in the Skyrim 360 version for the PC version, sticking with the controller made it easy. Also getting a mod like others have mentioned that allows you to hotkey up to 8 on the d-pad is very useful. Thing is, I've also played FO3 and FONV on PC using keyboard and mouse (KM) for those, and wouldn't think of using the controller. But the odd one for me was on the original PC version of the witcher, I used KM. I then bought Witcher 2 for PC when it came out and began using KM, but for some reason I was frustrated using KM. I switched to controller for Witcher 2 PC and enjoyed the game more. Weird. I guess my (long and rambling) point is, don't fixate on 1 way to play. If you have the option to try a controller rather than KM, do it. You might enjoy it more. And if not, the KM are still there to use. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Edit - 1 thing to note is I play in my living room using a plasma for both the 360 and PC and sitting on the couch/chair, so the KM is sitting on my lap when I play. So for me, maybe it is more comfortable using the controller than KM. But I did use KM for FO3 and FONV in this same arrangement...

Dominating in MP FPS is totally different from Skyrim. You simply do not need lighting fast accuracy in a game like Skyrim, and the controller allows for more natural movement and immersion. Alright, this topic has been beat to death... on to the next...

Not at all I play semi pro BF3 got paid to play WoW....gladiator 5 times for myself and numerous more for cash. If you think you need to play Skyrim all MMO hardcoe...........game is set to master with a few mods that make it harder than that and still no problem doing anything with a controller. Playing single player ports that I would play on console if I had one with a controller has 0 to do with being pro or not....its simply personal preference.

I'm not interested in debating the superiority of gamepads vs mouse/kb. I use a gamepad for Skyrim. Sure, it takes longer to go through inventory and the like, but at least with a gamepad when I click on a dialogue choice or close the menu, I meant to. I was completely frustrated with the mouse/kb setup and approaching carpal tunnel. I don't mind using a gamepad.

That said, I do use a mod that enables multiple hotkeys, taking screenshots, toggle-run, etc.

I have to admit using a 360 Controller with these sorts of games is mighty relaxing, gotta love sitting back playing Skyrim w/ 5.1 Audio & a 360 controller ahah.

Speaking of which, gonna be playing Skyrim with this baby soon: http://www.cinemablend.com/images/gallery/s32715/madcatz_13076600852048.jpg