Nothing official from Sony on this of course, but GI remains confident that something concrete will be announced in the coming month, possible at the E3 expo this July.

Sony working on 'break apart' motion PS3 pad [GamesIndustry.biz]

Anyway, this is hardly news, but AC has a control system that will take me a week to get comfortable manipulating. The game is a perfect example of how increasingly complex controllers will give rise to increasingly complex-to-control games. GamePro has a list of 5 suggestions for paring down the buttons and options.

• Reduce the number of face and shoulder buttons
• Merge "Start" and "Select" into one button
• Lose the D-pad
• Use motion-sensing controls (Newton, anyone?)
• Add attachment peripheral (Newt-chuk, anyone?)

Sounds good to me, but I think this is more a question of developer discipline in keeping character control lean and uncomplicated. A lot of extra buttons on a controller will eventually be used of course, so a redesign that strips out some of the lesser-employed options can't hurt. But the controller is not the game.

Five Easy Ways to Fix Complicated Controllers [GamePro]

Sometimes I pick up my controller, even if I'm not playing any games, and fly it around imagining it's a space fighter. That's about as far as I get with modding these things. But HacknMod has a few fun projects cooler than that, if you don't mind putting your controller, or two, out of service while you get it right. Even if you aren't mechanically inclined, they're cool to look at. The how-tos include:

• Add LEDs to the buttons (but we've already seen that here)
• Rapid-Fire Mod
• Custom Paint Job
• Integrated Messenger Kit (above)
• Tilt Controller

Tilt controller, of course, isn't a pure Wii-style hack, but it is pretty cool (see the movie). Most everyone could get the custom paint job right. Everything else after that requires some serious skill or acceptance of the fact that you will probably ruin one controller before getting it right on another.

5 Ways to Hack your Xbox 360 Controller [Hack N Mod]

""We don't use half the buttons on the 360 controller," admitted Molyneux, "simply because the whole dream I've got is that someone will sit down to play Fable 2 who has never played a game before and they can play with someone who's played games the whole of their lives.

"You hand somebody a game controller and it's like you've handed them a live gun or a hand grenade with the pin taken out"

I believe Harrison is exaggerating, but then again I make it a point never to carry around live hand grenades on my person so who knows? They both make a very good point. Back when games consoles first started there was a joystick and a button, but since then controllers have evolved to the point where you can find a complicated looking map within the first two pages of most game manuals.

Harrison went on to praise two innovators in the realm of control...Nintendo for the Wiimote, which gives non-gamers something more familiar to work with, and Apple's iPhone, which he says appeals to the user's natural instincts.

"I saw this first hand a few weeks ago where a two year old was playing with an iPhone and he knows how to get the pictures up of mum and dad. The two year-old then intuitively thought that all electronic devices worked like that," said Harrison. "He's pressing the TV to change channels."

"He's right and the rest of us are wrong - that should be applied universally. Apple should be applauded for that innovation," he added.

Harrison: Non-gamers see controllers as live guns [GamesIndustry.biz]

Guitar Hero 3 Standalone Guitars Priced, Dated, Pictured [Primotech]

Update: Activision reminds us that they have not actually officially announced anything about new wireless guitars but have confirmed that this information isn't accurate.

Nyko expects to ship the thing in February, carrying with it a $19.99 price tag. Press release, if you want it, after this.

Nyko Announces Cord-Free Wireless Adapter For Wii Nunchuk

New Adapter Offers Wireless Convenience for Wii Nunchuk Owners

LOS ANGELES - January 29, 2008 - Nyko Technologies ®, a premier peripherals manufacturer, today announced that they will release the Cord-Free wireless adapter for the Wii Nunchuk this February.

While the highly anticipated award winning Wireless Nunchuck for Wii is a brand-new standalone product, the Cord-Free wireless adapter for Wii Nunchuk differentiates from its sibling by converting your standard wired Nunchuk into a wireless peripheral. The adapter adds a convenient self-standing sleeve for the wired Nunchuk and a wireless signal dongle to the bottom of your Wii Remote. A small dongle provides lag-free wireless connection between your Wii Remote and Nunchuk and adds up to 15 feet of wireless range. The self-standing Nunchuk sleeve features a convenient compact cord management system keeping the existing Nunchuk cord organized and out of site. The Cord-Free wireless adapter for the Wii Nunchuk runs on two AAA batteries (included) and provides up to 60 hours of continuous gameplay.

"Nyko is dedicated to providing outstanding wireless solutions for Wii gamers," said Chris Arbogast, Marketing Director at Nyko Technologies. "We want to provide multiple options for those looking to untangle their Wii experience."

Nyko's Cord-Free wireless adapter for the Wii Nunchuk will be available at retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $19.99.

About Nyko Technologies, Inc.

Nyko Technologies ® develops, manufactures and markets innovative peripherals to enhance the digital lifestyle. The company's mission is to deliver products that solve problems and improve user experience for work and play. Nyko specializes in interactive entertainment, computing, consumer electronics, portable audio, as well as online and wireless technologies. The company has distribution through major U.S. and Canadian retailers, along with distributors worldwide. Founded in 1995, Nyko is headquartered in Los Angeles, Calif. Please go to www.nyko.com or call 1-888-444-6956 for more information.

The individual drum controller arrives much earlier on February 12, but at a $79.99 price point. Cold comfort there.

Rock Band Instruments Priced, Dated [IGN]

Gamers of every system will likely be pleased with the line-up of new products announced by Nyko Technologies at CES. Wii fans should be especially pleased, as Nyko will be coming out with the Wireless Nunchuck, and The Frontman wireless guitar (you'd think some other third-party manufacturer would have jumped on this sooner, but hey, I'll take what I can get). Some of Nyko's upcoming and recently released products will be available for a hands-on demo at CES, although I imagine there won't be much of a line-up to try the new Charge Base 2, as recharging batteries isn't the thrill it once was.

Hit the jump for some early 2008 goodies.

The Wireless Nunchuck (MSRP: $29.99) has full accelerometer support and is fully compatible with all games that use the Nunchuck, and offers 30 hours of battery life on two AAA batteries. It's currently scheduled to be released early 2008.

The Frontman wireless guitar is available for the Wii and the PS3 (costing $49.99 and $59.99 respectively), and comes with all your standard guitar bits and notions of rock-and-roll grandeur, along with interchangeable pick guards. The Wii guitar is compatible with Guitar Hero III, while the PS3 version will work with Guitar Hero III and Rock Band.

The Charge Base 360 is Nyko's offering of a convenient way to keep those Xbox 360 controllers charged. It comes with two custom-designed NiMH batteries, plus additional spaces to drop in and charge. The included docking station will charge two controllers for up to 25 hours of game play, and the whole unit should be available Q1 2008, for MSRP: $29.99.

For the PSP fans, there's the PSP Charger Grip (although it's only compatible with the PSP-2000), designed to simulate holding a controller and be more ergonomic. It also extends battery life by up to ten hours, thanks to the rechargeable lithium-ion battery built in. It's scheduled to be out Q1 2008 for MSRP: $29.99.

And the PSP gets another offering, with the TV-Link cable for the PSP-2000, enabling players to connect the system to their HDTV through high definition component cable. Those who want to see all the UMD action on the big(ger) screen, look for the TV Link in Q1 2008, for MSRP: $14.99.

Finally, Nyko announced one more item for the PS3, the Zero Wireless Controller. It has a metal polymer hybrid design, and provides up to 25 hours of gameplay with the included rechargeable NiMH battery. It also features a wireless range of up to 30 feet, durable backlit LED buttons, curved triggers, full six axis motion, dual vibration motors, and comes in three colours. It will be available for MSRP: $59.99 in Q1 2008.

Caveat emptor and all that.

A Gaming Miracle [Just Press Play via Game|Life]

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock Wireless Guitar Controllers Hitting Retail Shelves in Early 2008

SANTA MONICA, Calif.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq:ATVI) today announced that standalone wireless guitar controllers for Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock will be available at retail stores nationwide by early 2008.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock lets fans thrash and burn with new wireless guitar controllers available for each platform, including exclusive Gibson Guitar's Les Paul model for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo, and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. PlayStation®2 gamers will also get to shred on an exclusive shape, Gibson's Kramer guitar, popularized by hard rockers and known for its body design, pickups, electronics and construction for furious finger fretting.

Official response on the forums has been that users experiencing hardware problems should recheck their connections and restart the game. If Rock Band hardware is still failing, users are being directed to EA's warranty page, to request a replacement controller. Good luck and godspeed, replacement guitars.

The OFFICIAL "One of my Instruments is Already Broken" Thread [Rock Band Forums - thanks, All!]
Rock Band Warranty [EA]

Eric Winkler, Saitek's founder, commented: "Joining Saitek with Mad Catz is a truly complementary step that leverages the strengths of each side, gives the combined business a new scale, and strengthens the relationships with both suppliers and customers. I am proud of what the Saitek team has achieved in its 28 years and I thank all those who made it possible.

Mad Catz Acquires Saitek™, a Leading Worldwide PC Games Peripheral Provider, for $30 Million

Strategic Diversification Complements Mad Catz' Leadership in Console Game Peripherals and Further Expands International Footprint

SAN DIEGO—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSX: MCZ), a leading third-party interactive entertainment accessory provider, announced today that consistent with its strategy to further diversify its products and geographic distribution capabilities, it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 100 percent of the shares of the private holding company that owns Saitek's worldwide operations. Saitek is a leading worldwide provider of PC games accessories, PC input devices, multimedia audio products, chess and intelligent games. In particular, Saitek enjoys a leadership position in flight simulation controllers and has established a strong position in keyboards for PC games. In its latest fiscal year ended February 28, 2007, Saitek generated over $43 million of net sales and its gross margins exceeded those generated by Mad Catz in its latest twelve months. Mad Catz expects the acquisition to be accretive to its fiscal 2008 earnings and cash flow.

Under the terms of the agreement, the $30 million purchase consideration is subject to working capital adjustment and is comprised of $15.5 million in cash from Mad Catz' cash on hand and borrowings under the Company's existing credit facility, as well as the issuance to the seller by Mad Catz of $14.5 million of convertible notes. The notes bear interest at a rate of 7.5% payable at maturity and are convertible at the seller's option into common shares of Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. at $1.42 per share. The conversion price represents a 15% premium to the average closing share price of MCZ shares over the last 15 trading days. $4.5 million of the notes mature in two years and $10 million of the notes mature in three years.

Saitek's product lines include PC games accessories, PC input devices, multimedia audio products, chess and intelligent games. In addition to representing a strategically complementary product line to Mad Catz' broad range of console videogame offerings, Saitek's comprehensive range of PC peripherals allows Mad Catz to further strengthen its retail distribution network, particularly in Europe, where Saitek generates more than fifty percent of its revenues. Saitek's 120 employees in product development, sales and marketing, distribution and finance/administration are expected to join Mad Catz. Saitek has offices in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, United Sates, Hong Kong and the Peoples Republic of China.

Commenting on the transaction, Darren Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz, said, "PC games peripherals is a category closely adjacent to our core console business and we are thrilled to be adding one of the world's leading providers to the Mad Catz family. Saitek significantly enhances Mad Catz' position as one of the world's leading games peripherals companies and provides us an entrée into the businesses of PC mice, keyboards and speakers and electronic chess and intelligent games.

Saitek has world-class product development and sales teams, one of the best brands among consumers in the industry and a diversified portfolio of highly-successful products. Its outstanding vendor operations personnel in China and administrative personnel throughout the company will not only help us grow Saitek's PC businesses, but will also support Mad Catz' continuing growth initiatives on a global basis."

Eric Winkler, Saitek's founder, commented: "Joining Saitek with Mad Catz is a truly complementary step that leverages the strengths of each side, gives the combined business a new scale, and strengthens the relationships with both suppliers and customers. I am proud of what the Saitek team has achieved in its 28 years and I thank all those who made it possible. We look forward with confidence to the success of the combined team in the years ahead, and wish them the best of good fortune."

Mr. Richardson added, "Although we expect to achieve operational efficiencies due to the scale of the combined entity, we believe that the upside is inherent in the future growth potential and not on a cost cutting basis. We intend to identify opportunities to apply Saitek's brands, intellectual property, products and skills in the console market as well as identify opportunities to apply Mad Catz' brands, intellectual property, products and skills in the PC market.

Just two months after our acquisition of the assets of Joytech, joining forces with Saitek is another example of how we are executing on our strategic plan to grow our business accretively, with the mission of increasing shareholder value by leveraging our core competencies in the design, development, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of interactive entertainment accessories and products."

The Access controller, as Ben has dubbed it, features an extra layer of accessibility with a series of swappable modules. Owners of the Access can rearrange buttons, analog sticks, shoulder buttons, and the d-pad for the configuration of their choice. Neat!

Ben's new controller isn't available quite yet, nor does he mention a planned ship date. However, if you're interested in scoring one, he has provided contact info for eDimensional to whom you can express your interest. It's perfect for the disabled gamer in your life or for the Rumble Roses XX uber-enthusiast.

Benheck's new single handed "Access" controller revealed [Benheck.com - thanks, Scott!]

We're torn. It's great that the Rock Band drums disassemble. But all of that telescoping had us hoping for a simple one or two step maneuver to rock the peripheral from stored form to final form. Instead, we're left with a pile of parts, some agglomeration of rejected camping equipment. Though, to be fair, Totilo assembles the kit in less than a minute. Thoughts?

How To Assemble The "Rock Band" Drum Kit [MTV Multiplayer]

Activision just sent over a whole slew of Guitar Hero 3 box art, screens and controller images. Hit the gallery to check out the images, including nice ones of all four GH controllers.

Microsoft today announced they will start selling pink and blue Xbox 360 controllers today for $50 a pop. My favorite part of the announcement, seen after the jump, is that Microsoft bucked the trend for renaming colors we all already know and love. So blue is just blue and not Arctic Frost and pink is just pink and not Blushing Mother... actually, I kinda like the sound of Blushing Mother. TM. No stealing my color name, I just TMed that shit.

Xbox 360 is adding a splash of color to the holiday season with the release of new Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers in pink and blue on Oct. 2, each offered for an estimated retail price of $49.99 (US). The whole family can enjoy Xbox 360 with these bright additions to the "chill" and black Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers.

The pink and blue Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers will make a great gift this holiday season for newer gamers. Delivering high-performance wireless gaming, the Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers feature all of the convenience and flexibility of the originals with a unique twist of personality. Now every member of the family can have a favorite color controller to match their favorite animal from "Viva Piñata: Party Animals."

The response from gamers regarding the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller has been nothing short of amazing. In fact, the Xbox 360 wireless controller is one of the most popular gaming controllers of all time. These integrated 2.4GHz high-performance controllers enable comfort and extended game-play.

The Xbox Guide Button, available on all the controllers, provides quick access to premium digital movies, music and games libraries on Xbox LIVE, the number one online distributor of high-definition television and feature film content.

All Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers also use optimized technology that allows users to wirelessly maneuver with a range of 30 feet. Two AA batteries provide 30 hours of life so users can enjoy hours of uninterrupted gaming.

But it really tires out the hands.

Holding the Chatpadized controller is a bulkier matter, but it's not uncomfortable. So when I found my fingers slow to respond on the thumbsticks after about an hour of play, I thought it was just me. Then I remembered my recent time in Germany, or more specifically, the countless gallons of steins that I've been lifting over the past 2 weeks. If anything, my hands should have increased their strength as of late...possibly to levels bordering on superheroic.

Realizing the Chatpad must be to blame, I popped it off. And yes, gaming was easy again.

If one were to keep playing with the Chatpad, I expect their hands would make the proper adjustments. And some may even look at the Chatpad as a training device—like adding weight to a runner's legs, or a second hot dog in the bun of a competitive eater.

But for now, I'm removing the Chatpad until I need to enter long strings of text information. Because like most gamers, my body needs to be in a perpetual top condition for my level of play.

Hot New Accessories for Xbox 360 [Xbox.com]

Considering I probably have that in change in these pants, I'll probably pick one up. If it were only wireless, though! Michael McWhertor

Ace Combat 6 sticking 360s [Gamespot]

From what we understand, these accessories are going to be so rare, Microsoft is manufacturing hundreds of thousands to meet demand. That means you need to put your pre-order in pronto. No, don't even take a second to wipe off the Cheeto. Pre-order! Michael McWhertor

Halo 3 Limited Edition Accessories [Gamestop via Gaming Talk HQ]

While I'm perfectly content with stock white controllers, these things are sure to be a hit at your next baby shower. Michael McWhertor

More confirmation of Blue/Pink Wiimote on the way [Go Nintendo]

Nyko reps explained to us in an e-mail earlier today:

Current technology makes it impossible to properly pass the special functions of the guitar controller to the PS3 with its existing protocol. Features like the whammy and strum bars do not function properly. Being adamant players of Guitar Hero we know how important precise controls are to fans of the series. We will not produce a product if it falls short of those expectations.

We are disappointed that we need to shelve this product as it has been one of the most requested items since its announcement at CES 2007 with numerous inquiries from consumers on a daily basis. If new technology or a firmware update is released that enables us to provide full support for Guitar Hero 1 and 2 on the PS3 via the Play Adaptor, we will reactivate the development of this product.

Again, we would like to express our regret for needing to put this product on hold as we know many people were looking forward to its release.

Unfortunately, I'm going to set realistic expectations for myself and others looking forward to Guitar Hero I and II on the PS3 and cast doubt upon a firmware update addressing this any time soon. Back to waiting for Guitar Hero III, then! Michael McWhertor

A Japanese poll has popped up in which folks have been voting for their favorite game controller. Not that many people have voted, but it's an interesting list so far. As of writing, here are the most popular ones:

• Sega Saturn Controller: 74 votes
• Super Famicom Controller: 28
• Mega-Drive Fighting Pad: 27
• Nintendo 64 Controller: 19
• NES FIGHTING COMMANDER: 14
• PS2 Real Arcade Pro. Special Edition: 14
• Dreamcast Controller: 13
• PS2 Sega Saturn Controller: 13
• XBOX Controller: 12
• GameCube Controller: 12

So. What are your favs? Brian Ashcraft

Popular Controllers In Japan

The mutant spawn of a PLAYSTATION 3 SIXAXIS and mouse, the FragFX looks to provide "PC-like movement, precision and performance" to console first-person shooter fans. It even has a dedicated "frag button." I know. It's crazy. But it just might be crazy enough to work.

One more mock up shot, plus a feature-rich press release follow.

SPLITFISH FRAGFX CONTROLLER BRINGS PC STYLE GAMEPLAY TO THE PLAYSTATION 3

Peripheral Customized for PlayStation Home Virtual World Navigation

Edmonton, March 20, 2007 - Innovative peripheral maker SplitFish GameWare, Inc today officially announced the company's upcoming FragFX game controller for the PlayStation 3 game console. The patent pending FragFX features a separate right hand mouse controller and detachable left hand grip controller, ideal for experiencing the traditional PC mouse and keyboard style gameplay of shooter games in a console environment. Key FragFX controller features include:

The right hand mouse controller has the complete set of PS3 controller buttons. The mouse is used during game play to shoot, look left, right, up and down for that same PC style game play experience on the PlayStation 3.

The mouse is optimized for navigation within the recently announced PlayStation Home virtual world.

A menu mode on the mouse allows it to double as a regular mouse during menu selections. A lap mouse pad and left hand grip cradle is included with the FragFX to allow for comfortable play in a living room setting.

The left hand re-programmable grip (nicknamed the "FragChuck" by G4TV) has the full range of 6-axis motion control providing Wii-like motion sensitivity for the PlayStation 3. In games like Resistance: Fall of Man, to reload a weapon or to rifle butt an opponent, the user can swing the FragChuck.

The FragChuck also offers a game speed dial and frag button. When the frag button is pressed it slows the mouse down to incremental movement for smooth sniper shots. The speed dial allows for instant fast or slow overall game play. These two additional features let the user get out of battles as fast as they get into them.

Already SplitFish is generating buzz among gamers with their groundbreaking controller technology for PlayStation consoles. During the first hands on reviews IGN called the control the FragFX serves up "far superior to the alternatives."

SplitFish CEO Cisco Schipperheijn remarked, "For years, first person shooter players have had less than an optimum experience when playing on a console. SplitFish's FragFX brings PC-like movement, precision and performance to the console FPS. The mouse in combination with the FragChuck is a huge advancement in pushing the limits of immersive game play."

SplitFish's FragFX provides universal game support and is expected to ship next month, with a wired version retailing for $59.99 and later a Bluetooth wireless version for $69.99. A limited amount of units will be reserved for European customers. The company previously released an award-winning FPS control system for the PlayStation2, called EdgeFX.

About SplitFish
SplitFish is a developer of original patented video game hardware technologies that include the theme park quality EyeFX 3D Adapter, the EdgeFX Competition Controller, the MotionFX Tilt-sensing Adapter, the GlideFX Trackball Controller, and the DualFX Laser Gun. For further details email us at info@splitfish.com or visit our web site at www.splitfish.com.

Sold! Michael McWhertor

Want to go classic? Turn the Wii-mote sideways. Want to justify the pricepoint of your Wii Classic Controller? Plug it in (for once)! Masochist? Thanks to lovable developer Intelligent Systems, you can even use your Gamecube controller.

Now you're playing Fire Emblem with power! Michael McWhertor

Noir 360 - Wireless Controller [Alcaron's Projects - Thanks to Her Royal Highness Chilly, Empress of All Games]

Clearly, two of these designs were inspired by television remote controls, with the far left pre-Wiimote coming closest to the final version.

That deformed Wavebird-like controller, bottom right, seems inspired by the early PlayStation 3 pad. But instead of a boomering, Nintendo was clearly going for that Frisbee look and feel. Thank the gaming gods that never saw the light of day. How many flung controllers would have resulted from that?

Now, let's get to the one we all want to talk about, the Giant Star Button. This one is obviously influenced by the satirical single-button controller—the one with the "Win Game" function—but what the hell was it going to do?

Did it play Pop-o-Matic Trouble? You Don't Know Jack? Is that a cheese wheel? I'd really like to know the story behind this one. Michael McWhertor

Nintendo's "failure to launch" [Nintendo Forums via Wii Blog]

We have received feedback from some customers that they have experienced issues while using the Xbox 360 Wireless Headset, including difficulty syncing the headset to the controller, reception interference and audio sensitivity when playing action-packed games like Gears of War. We are committed to providing the highest quality accessories for Xbox 360 and would like to assist in troubleshooting and resolving those issues, whether by replacing or repairing the units under warranty. We encourage anyone experiencing issues with the Wireless Headset to call 1-800-4-MY-XBOX.

If you've had problems, make sure you get in touch with them. And, hey, let us know how it all turns out. Michael McWhertor

Xbox 360 Wireless Headset Update [Gamerscoreblog]
Xbox 360 Wireless Headset Conflicts With Older Controllers? [Kotaku]

Sega will also ship the Virtua Stick High Grade a week later for a very affordable 7,329 yen (about $63 US), plus give those who pre-order a copy of the Virtua Fighter 10th Anniversary Reprint Version, a mash-up of Virtua Fighter 4 with the original blocky style Virtua Fighter graphics originally released in limited quantities in 2003.

As I look into my crystal ball, I foresee Sega of America releasing neither the Virtua Stick High Grade nor the 10th Anniversary disc, as that would make thousands of people in North America happy and we're talking about Sega here. So put your import orders in ASAP! Michael McWhertor

No, you twisted, hentai wanking filth, this is not a controller made for Dead or Alive Xtreme 2. Put your debit card away. This custom wireless Xbox 360 controller, hacked by Ben Heckendorn, was made for a serviceman injured in Iraq. You might remember Heckendorn's previous custom electronics, like the Xbox 360 laptop and the Neo Geo Portable.

According to his making-of post, the device is controlled mainly with the left hand, triggers and buttons on the posterior side within reach of the four fingers, with analog sticks and d-pad controlled by the thumb and right leg.

Ben has seen so much interest in such a device that he's considering mass manufacturing. Let's hope that Heckendorn and company are successful in accomplishing their goal of getting more of these into the hands (or hand) of the injured and disabled, and that we're not forced into shaming controller manufacturers into doing this sort of thing.

Actually, scratch that. Console and controller manfacturers should be doing this shit, like, yesterday. Michael McWhertor

Single-handed wireless Xbox 360 controller [thanks, Alejandro]

Some industrious gamer with a lot of time and some ingenuity has created his own arcade style controller for the Wii. Not satisfied with using his old Gamecube controller and unable to track down the elusive "Classic Controller", this guy decided to go for the full on arcade experience for his Gamecube and Virtual Console games. His website says it plugs into the Gamecube controller ports on the top (as shown) and he's used it to play Fire Emblem, Capcom vs Snk 2 and Ikaruga for Gamecube as well as Wario Ware and Solomon's Key for the Virtual Console.

Well done, if not a little minimalistic for my taste. But hey, it matches the Wii and I'm all about matching accessories. Flynn De Marco

Wii Joystick [Welcome to Wonderland Thanks, pheonixsquirrel]

Warning: This is not for the squeamish. But with Hallowe'en just around the corner, you may be in the mood for something a little darker.

At ChinaGBA, possibly courtesy of PMCG PANPP (give me a break, it's in Chinese!), some sadist has decided to rip apart a PlayStation 3 SIXAXIS wireless controller, putting its guts up on display for controller snuff afficionados. Sick.

Those of you who aren't into watching controller humiliation may want to take a look anyway, just to play a few rounds of I Think They Could Have Fit The DualShock Solenoids Right In THERE. Michael McWhertor

The Horror!

Finally! Tripping over the wire when you're rocking out to Godzilla in Guitar Hero and shattering your front teeth across the upper edge of your television screen will be a thing of the past: RedOctane has announced that the Guitar Hero controllers are going wireless next month.

They will be compatible with either Guitar Hero 1 or 2 (the latter's due out next month in the US and Europe), and we're assured that they use the same mechanism, and have been created to the same high quality as the wired Guitar Hero SG controllers.

They're also going to be white, we're told... but it's not clear whether the actual shape has changed at all.

The big question is whether or not these will be bundled into Guitar Hero 2 or not. Keeping fingers and toes crossed. Florian Eckhardt

Wireless Guitar Hero controllers next month! [Eurogamer]

What is more interesting about this video of a man in a pizza suit playing Guitar Hero is less his costume but his double-necked, custom controller. Where the heck did he get that? And how is he playing two parts at once with it? There must be some sort of switch to play certain notes in unison, but damned if I can see him trigger it. Unless he's just cheating. Florian Eckhardt

Rhys Hale wrote us with this charmingly wrought diagram of the medical consequences wreaked by PlayStation ergonomics. Right click, select "View Image" for PlayStation Claw in it's full glory.

Also known as Onanist Claw. Florian Eckhardt

Sixaxis is the worst name for a controller in the history of the world, whether you spell it entirely in capital letters or no. Luckily, the Sixaxis also appears to be the worst controller in the world, so it's aptly named!

From an IGN hands-on of the Playstation 3:

Compared to Microsoft's uber-comfortable Xbox 360 pad, the SIXAXIS feels cheap, plasticky, uncomfortable and disconcertingly light - almost as if it's going to fly out of your hands during those more extreme gaming moments.

More worrying still, the newly-designed lower L and R shoulder triggers feel more like they belong on an early controller prototype than the near-final model. Replicating the 360 pad, rather than being simple shoulder-mounted buttons, the triggers are now hinged horizontally along the controller, with pressure forcing them inward along the bottom - like triggers then, really. Trouble is, they're placed almost unnaturally low meaning we found ourselves operating them by jamming our fingers in between the hinges to apply pressure, rather than using the buttons themselves. What's more, the triggers are convex, with no grooves to keep your fingers in place - an issue further compounded by their smooth finish, offering no resistance against your finger tips. Invariably we found our digits slipping off with the triggers snapping back to their default position. Bah.

SIXAXIS? More like SUXASSES, am I right? Wokka wokka! You guys can steal that joke if you want, I haven't copyrighted it or anything. Maybe we can get a meme going. Florian Eckhardt

PlayStation 3 Hands-on [IGN]

IGN got some hands-on time with Pelican and Nerf's first controller collaboration, the Nerf PlayStation 2 controller. Covered in soft, biteable foam, the controller sounds perfect for those of us incapable of supressing the berserker rage brought on by, say, Shinobi's bottomless pits, Viewtiful Joe's pain-in-the-ass bosses, or Devil May Cry 3's entire game.

It also sounds like it's right up the respective alleys of those who love to release their frustration by throwing their pad at their hi-def televisions or by beaning their younger siblings in the head with said controller.

Surprisingly, impressions were very positive. While the d-pad looks cheap and semi-useless, the savings in new electronics and hospital bills shouldn't be overlooked. Michael McWhertor

Pelican NERF PS2 Controller [IGN]