Even for the analog sticks, the part that is properly analog is only on the pad. The console receives 8-bit digital values, and allows for 8 bits on all of the buttons. Technically, this could be called ‘fuzzy logic’ rather than analog. Some older systems (like Pong) do use actual analog controls.
IIRC the protocol that is used allows for 8 bits per button. The pads don’t use potentiometers but force sensitive resistors - a bit like this: http://at.or.at/hans/misc/itp/pcomp/fsr.html
Between the wear that controllers get and limitations on precise resistor performance, I’d be a little surprised if anything tried to use the full dynamic range and resolution provided by the protocol.
It’s actually the triangle button that zooms in and out depending on how you press it. And you can zoom relatively smooth too, not just all the way or none at all. I didn’t remember correctly that it was the Triangle face button and not the Up button for MGS3 cut scenes. If you use some SIXAXIS drivers for the PC, you can even test the analog functions of the X and O button (sadly can’t test the others)
Here is a video: [media=youtube]OvTxbbsSce0[/media]
You can clearly see the extent of just how sensitive all the buttons are.
Keep in mind the DS3 uses the same engage type for all the buttons on the DS3 with the exception of 11 and 12, which are tact switches. I’m pretty sure there is a game that does use the D-Pad’s analog sensitivity, I just can’t remember where or which one.