Symmetrical.
People can argue about ergonomics all they like but it's a stupid argument, asymmetrical means that for FPS/Shooters it's out and is stupid. Symetrical means for non-FPS/shooters it's out and stupid (where you move with right stick and attack with the buttons). That arguement is done and it's stupid. The reason symmetrical is better is not only for FPS (aligned controller with firing from shoulder buttons) but because of Tekken (or whatever your preferred fighter is) and a less extent arcade racers. Basically games that don't require the analog sticks.
No one uses Analog sticks for fighters if they have a controller, if you are using the analog stick, you're not playing it right. Due to the correct placement of the d-pad games like Tekken, Street Fighter and Dead or Alive, can be played with minimal effort and precision movement commands while it being perfectly aligned with the attack commands. For arcade racers buttons should be buttons (because you can slide easier from X/A (go button) to Square/X (brake) than you can triggers, and steering should be done with the d-pad.
Of course having a d-pad that works helps. Nintendo have had it perfect on the SNES, Sony has had the same great d-pad since the PS1 (new one looks changed, I don't liek it).
Hmm, pie.
