Operator interface we utilized in 2008.
I definitely recommend using a pistol-grip RC controller for any skid-steer type robot. We originally went with it because we knew that the 2008 game would require a lot of driving, so naturally we felt an RC car type system would be best. As driver that year, it turned out to be far easier to learn and master than your standard 2 joystick system. I had plenty of experience with the latter system but as soon as I used the RC controller for a few minutes, I was completely sold on it. Pretty much every member on our team found it preferable to the traditional 2 joysticks.
For those wondering how the robot was controlled, the trigger determines the speed and direction of the robot while the wheel steers. In order to spin in place, one simply has to twist the wheel in the appropriate direction without pulling the trigger. It's an incredibly intuitive system and well worth it if you have somebody who can modify the controller appropriately. Plus, walking up to the driver station with everything in that one small metal case makes you feel like some sort of secret agent!