@matchaman normally at a flee market you could find some in decent condition for like 5$ each and the kit is like 20$ so 25$ for a wireless OG controller would be the best but for me when i play my console games on my Pi i use the SN30 Pro and Pro+ but when i am on my Switch i use the official one they offer when you have the Nintendo online service (which i have not tested on my Pi yet).
If the controller is plugged in with a cord it will detect it, but it will not detect the 8bitdo adapter. I didn't install a heat sink on the internal Bluetooth chip because I had this adapter and planned to use it. I don't know why it can't be detected.
I have a similar behavior with the most recent version of Retropie running on my pi 3 B+. My Logitech F710 controller runs very well inside the Emulationstation, however if I start a games - regardless with kind of emulation - the controller stops to work.
Just a site note: If the controller really is compatible with the PS3, you could try this wireless adapter. I'm using its Wii U Pro variant for my Wii U Pro controller clones. If it works for PS3 like it does for Wii U Pro, it "just works" without any special software.
@kleenax Could you please remove @BobHarris' pictures in your post? :) It's a little inconvenient for others to have to scroll over them again. You can edit your posts via the three little bars at the right side of the posts.