Can controllers be a barrier for new players to videogames?

[Alterego-X]

Mitsurugi said:
I don't understand whats so difficult and intimidating about using a controller. If people can learn to use cell phones, keyboards and digital cameras with dozens of tiny or oddly placed buttons then whats so complicated about 4 colored buttons (Xbox 360) or 4 simple shapes (PS) or 2-4 top buttons. Unless they don't know left from right, are color blind and have poor hand-eye coordination, using a control should be dirt simple.

But mobile phones, and digital cameras are useful. They have to spend some time with getting used to them, but it pays, because they get a new skill for it, and new ways to interact with real life. 

While video games are just for... passing time. They could as well watch a movie, or read  a book, and avoid the 30min long tutorials and learning curves,  OR even the 5 minute motion controller tutorials, too.

This is why software like Wii Fit, or Brain Age are so popular. First, they have simple controls, AND second, they give a reason why people should bother with learning to use them.