Yes, there will be console skins and branded controllers from Mad Catz, but that's just a small selection of the merchandise Mad Catz has up its sleeves. Hell, even the branded controllers are something special, with both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions sporting two additional buttons on the rear, perfect for shifting melee and sprint away from the analog control sticks.

Both consoles are also getting unique communication options - a Bluetooth headset for the PS3 and a military design throat microphone for the 360, which sounds like an excellent solution for those gaming in high-noise environments.

On the PC side of things, Mad Catz is rolling out a game pad, a mouse, and two keyboards, one of which is built off of the Saitek Cyborg line of gaming keyboards, which is the one I currently use. $99 is a bit steep, but I've been extremely satisfied.

For a full listing of products and prices, simply scroll down. The full line is expected to release in conjunction with the game this November.

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Combat Controller – Xbox 360

Complete with a host of features designed to customize the in-game experience, the Modern Warfare 2 Combat Controller has Rubber Grips and a soft-touch finish for extended gaming sessions. Featuring two unique buttons located on the rear of the Controller, players can re-map Action Button or Thumbstick commands empowering players to shift melee or sprint to the rear buttons in order to maintain full motion control on the analog sticks. Immersive Analog ThumbStick Backlighting enhances the in-game atmosphere while Dual Vibration Feedback allows the user to experience every shot and explosion. Lastly, the fully braided connection cable provides a robust and latency free connection with the console.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Throat Communicator – Xbox 360

Based on authentic military design, the Modern Warfare 2 Throat Communicator allows gamers to comfortably communicate with teammates and other Xbox LIVE® players. Fashioned in authentic graphics, the unique microphone design reduces background noise and allows gamers to clearly communicate with each other, bringing them closer to the field ops experience. The Throat Communicator is fully compatible with the official Microsoft® controller as well as the Mad Catz Modern Warfare 2 Combat Controller.

MSRP: $29.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Faceplate and Console Skinz – Xbox 360

Featuring custom Modern Warfare 2 artwork, both the highly collectible Controller Faceplate and Console Skinz allow gamers to customize their Xbox 360 and official controller. Depicting official in-game art, the Console Faceplate attaches simply and safely, transforming your console in seconds and the removable Console Skinz wrap around the sides of the Xbox 360, providing a fully immersive themed landscape.

MSRP: $29.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Wireless Combat Controller – PS3™

Modern Warfare 2 Wireless Combat Controller for PLAYSTATION 3 utilizes a secure 2.4 GHz wireless link to connect with the console for accurate wire-free action. Featuring two unique buttons located on the rear of the Controller, players can re-map Action Button or Thumbstick commands empowering players to shift melee or sprint to the rear buttons in order to maintain full motion control on the analog sticks. The Controller features Immersive Analog ThumbStick Backlighting and an internal Rechargeable Battery that allows for charging directly from the console's USB port and provides up to 60 hours of game play from a single charge.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth® Technology – PS3

Sophisticated, discrete and fashioned with Modern Warfare 2 graphics, the Headset for PLAYSTATION 3 allows for wire-free communication with teammates and PlayStation Network™ (PSN™) users. Featuring a high-quality, noise-reducing microphone, ideal for frantic game play, the Headset utilizes Bluetooth 2.0 wireless technology, and operates at a range of up to 30 feet from the console.

MSRP: $39.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Controller Faceplates – Xbox 360 & PLAYSTATION 3

Depicting official artwork from Modern Warfare 2, the highly collectible Controller Faceplate allows gamers to customize their official Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 controllers in style. Highly durable and featuring a high-gloss finish, the safe and removable Controller Faceplate attaches in seconds to the official controller and features authentic artwork to support the game (Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 Controller Faceplate sold separately).

MSRP: $14.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Combat GamePad – PC

For those who enjoy gaming on their PC but prefer the feel of a gamepad over a keyboard and mouse, the Modern Warfare 2 Combat GamePad provides a comfortable and highly ergonomic method of play. Featuring full analog control, the Combat GamePad is fashioned in authentic Modern Warfare 2 artwork and comes complete with a complement of four Action Buttons and four Trigger Buttons as well as a stable eight-way D-Pad delivering precision and accuracy where fast response is crucial to survival. Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Combat GamePad ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram the four Action Buttons to suit their personal preferences or for use with other software titles. The Combat GamePad is compatible with Windows™ 7, Vista™ and XP™.

MSRP: $24.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Sniper Mouse – PC

Fine-tuned for razor-sharp assault, the Modern Warfare 2 Sniper Mouse allows for precision in-game control. Instantly adjustable DPI (‘Dot Per Inch') allows gamers to adjust the speed of the mouse cursor at any time, ideal for a multitude of missions and varying styles of play. A built-in weight cartridge allows gamers to add or subtract weights from the Mouse tailoring the feel for personal preference. Fashioned in fully authentic graphics, the Sniper Mouse is certain to be the weapon of choice for PC enthusiasts. Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Mouse ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram the Mouse Buttons to suit their personal preference or for use with other software titles. The Sniper Mouse is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Combat Keyboard – PC

The Modern Warfare 2 Combat Keyboard features ‘Anti-Ghosting' in key action areas and a Windows Key Lock to prevent accidental disruption to game play. Easily accessible Media Keys provide instant access to volume control, play/pause and other essential media-related functions and a weighted base with strategically placed large rubber feet that prevent the keyboard from slipping off the desk. Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Combat Keyboard ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram Function Buttons to suit their personal preference or for use with other software titles. The Combat Keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

MSRP: $49.99

• Modern Warfare™ 2 Elite Keyboard – PC

Built on the successful ‘Cyborg™' Keyboard platform, the Modern Warfare 2 Elite Keyboard is ideal for those who take their gaming seriously and will prove to be an essential ally in the field. Multi-Color backlighting, including adjustable brightness and ‘Tru-Vu™' illumination, provides gamers with the ability to set ambient lighting, ranging from red through to amber and green. Touch-Sensitive Back-Lit Dashboard controls provide access to keyboard lighting and media functions. Further aiding in the custom nature of the keyboard, the WASD, cursor, ‘Cyborg™' and NumPad keys can all be lit independently from the rest of the keyboard, allowing players to highlight keys commonly used in-game. One-touch ‘Cyborg' mode instantly disables the Windows™ keys and adjusts the keyboard illumination to desired settings for simple set-up and no fewer than twelve Cyborg keys can be programmed to replicate any sequence of keyboard presses in a single button. Durable Metal-Plated key caps provide reinforced strength on the most commonly used gaming keys and gold-plated connectors for USB and microphone inputs allow other accessories to be passed through the keyboard without accessing the PC. Pre-programmed for Modern Warfare 2, the Elite Keyboard ships with software that allows gamers to reprogram Keyboard Buttons to suit their personal preference or for use with other software titles. The Elite Keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

MSRP: $99.99

[www.ps3fanboy.com] New First-Party Bluetooth headset unveiled, to be included in SOCOM: Confrontation bundle?

And at worse... well check out some of the links to listen to more examples of what has me leaving my headset in the box. I couldn't make it more than a couple of minutes into them and I already feel stupider.

Arguing Over Halo 2 Game
"You couldn't even get laid laughing like that, stupid bitch."

My Drunk Ass on Xbox Live
"I can't remember where you live but I'll kick your ass."

Crazy Guy on Xbox Live
"I don't need fucking Ritalin, Ass Monkey!"

I haven't even tried the camera. I just have too many itchy places that I like to scratch when I'm alone.

Razer showed off a new gaming keyboard and headset toay at the World Cyber Games 2007 Grand Finals in Seattle this week. The Lycosa has backlit keys, super-fast response times and a number of other gaming features while the Piranha supports stereo sound and features a noise-filtering microphone.

I'm not so sure about Razer. I've been using their DeathAdder mouse for awhile now and not only does it not seem that sensitive to me, it actually sometimes acts up. I also tested out their Barracuda sound card and headphones and both have major issues, so I've stopped using them. I'm starting to suspect that they make average products and just slap a neat name on it. What sort of experience have you had with their products?

Lycosa
• Keytop with non-slip rubber finish
• Backlight illumination with WASD cluster lighting option
• Fully-programmable keys with macro capability
• Gaming cluster with anti-ghosting capability
• Slim keycap structure with Hyperesponse™ technology
• TouchPanel™ easy access media keys
• Gaming mode option for deactivation of the Windows key
• 10 customizable software profiles with on-the-fly switching
• 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ / 1ms response time
• Earphone-out and microphone-in jacks
• Detachable wrist rest
• One integrated USB extension port

Piranha
• Stereo sound with true-to-life audio quality with superior clarity and bass
• Adjustable, noise-filtering microphone for clearer in-game communication
• Comfortable, ergonomic and adjustable earphones suitable for prolonged use
• In-line remote control with convenient volume and microphone muting adjustments
• Single-sided cable for hassle-free usage
• Durable braided fiber cable protection
• Compatible with VoIP communication applications like TeamSpeak, Ventrilo and Skype
• Compatible with most major operating systems
• Usable with CD, DVD and digital audio players (via 3.5mm minijack)

Warhawk showed up on my doorstep yesterday, and while I didn't receive a fancy pleather journal with it, it did come with the Jabra headset and a little USB charger. The headset feels a bit on the cheap side, but I'm sure it will work out just fine for the game. Now to find time to actually play Warhawk.

OK, I know the idea of a headset that rumbles seem insane, but this new PS3 headset also has four mini-speakers in each earcup and a built in microphone.

The AX360 connects to the PSIII optical port to deliver optimum, Dolby certified 2.1 and 5.1 digital sound separation. For a radical and extreme gaming experience, the unit features eight strategically placed speakers, four in each ear cup. The external 5.1 audio controller amplifies each individual speaker and provides total audio control with inline adjustments for front, side, rear, and subwoofer. The integrated rumble effect also gives PSIII gamers a more realistic and immersed game play. ... With the AX360's removable microphone, PSIII users can utilize the featured VoIP and PC connections. The AX360 sound box can support two headsets to share in the chaos. Secondary headsets will be available for $59.99 MSRP.

While the extra headset sells for $60, the first one will set you back $130. Expensive? Yes, but it makes your head shake. Brian Crecente

Vista, Calif, Jan. 2, 2006 - TRITTON Technologies' AX360, one of the industry's first high performance Dolby Digital and Pro Logic certified digital gaming headsets significantly enhances the personal PLAYSTATION 3 gaming experience.

The Audio Xtreme (AX) 360 provides true 5.1 digital, 360-degree surround sound is available now for $129.99 MSRP through TRITTON's distributor network.

The AX360 connects to the PSIII optical port to deliver optimum, Dolby certified 2.1 and 5.1 digital sound separation. For a radical and extreme gaming experience, the unit features eight strategically placed speakers, four in each ear cup. The external 5.1 audio controller amplifies each individual speaker and provides total audio control with inline adjustments for front, side, rear, and subwoofer. The integrated rumble effect also gives PSIII gamers a more realistic and immersed game play.

"The PSIII is one of the most highly anticipated product launches in console history," said Chris Von Huben, president of TRITTON Technologies. "Every gamer has been told to turn down the volume, which takes away from the gaming experience. With the AX360, gamers can personally experience extreme HD audio, getting the most from games or Blu-Ray movies, without bothering anyone."

With the AX360's removable microphone, PSIII users can utilize the featured VoIP and PC connections. The AX360 sound box can support two headsets to share in the chaos. Secondary headsets will be available for $59.99 MSRP.

PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system unleashes a brilliant, high-definition entertainment experience. The Cell Broadband Engine represents a tour de force in parallel processing. Its built-in Blu-ray Disc drive delivers a whole new generation in high-definition gaming and unmatched digital media storage. Whether it's gaming, Blu-ray movies, music or online services, PlayStation 3 invites gamers to Play Beyond.

This video illustrates an issue some Xbox 360 owners are experiencing when using their original Xbox 360 wireless controllers alongside the recently released wireless headset. Anyone out there in Kotakuland running into this problem? The official Xbox forums are rife with complaints about buggy behavior with the new accessory, but we're not sure how widespread this may be. Hopefully MS is working on a solution for those affected.

Thanks for the info, Ben. Michael McWhertor

You will be happy to hear that both the Playstation 2 keyboard by Logitech and the PS2's EyeToy work on the Playstation 3.

The keyboard, and I believe this is true of all USB keyboard, allows you to enter text in any text field and requires no set-up. You can go into the accessory settings on the console to tweak the settings if you'd like to, but you don't need to.

With the EyeToy, I plugged it into a USB port and went to Accessories and then Test Camera on the console's menu. In Test Camera it first said no device found, but a few seconds later a live image from the camera popped up with the words USB Camera next to it. This makes me think that any USB camera might work and that it's not the EyeToy specifically being detected.

I tried using the Xbox 360's Vision Camera and while it detected that a USB device was plugged in, it didn't work. Too bad, that would have been hilarious.

While the EyeToy sends live video to the PS3, I couldn't find anything to do with this ability, so I suppose we'll have to wait and see how they make use of it down the line. According to the online user manual for the PS3, once the network launches we will be able to both voice and video chat, so I suspect the EyeToy or any USB camera will work with that.

It's kinda cool that Sony left it open for gamers to use any USB device for things like the keyboard, camera and headset. I also love that you can use any Bluetooth headset with the console. Very neat. Brian Crecente

Well, this is rather nifty. At a recent retail product fair in Japan, Nintendo announced a VoIP headset for the DS and DS Lite. It's set to go on sale in Japan around September 14th. Price? Only about $10, surprisingly. It's designed to allow you to engage in more comfortable, lower volume smack talk with your Metroid Prime: Hunters or Pokemon buddies.

Something occurred to me looking at this, though. We're now getting Opera for the DS. Where the hell is Skype for the DS? I will never, ever browse the Internet on the DS, but make long-distance phone calls far cheaper than I could make on my mobile phone? That's just fills my sack with sunshine. Thanks, Bernard! Florian Eckhardt

Nintendo announces headphone VoIP set for DS [Video Games Blogger]

Are you a gamer who still wants to help out the victims of Hurricane Katrina? Plantronics is selling an emerald-green Halo 2 headset usually worth about fifty clams for a low, low price of $14.95.

Not only that, but a buck out of every purchase goes to the Platronics GameCom United Way Katrina Recovery Fund. After that money passes through the filter of New Orleans' corrupt politicians, that means that almost two cents of your $15 bucks will be going directly to aid the people that Katrina (and the incompetence of their trusted leaders) left destitute, displaced and homeless.

But it sure is a swell headset for $15 bucks. Thanks for the tip, Chilly! Florian Eckhardt

Halo 2 Headsets Benefit Katrina Victims [Xbox.com]

I still don't see why a person would need or want a wireless headset for a wireless Xbox 360 controller, but apparently there is a non-mod way of landing one.

Turtle Beach created the Ear Force X2, a wireless pair of headphones for both the Xbox and Xbox 360. The lightweight wireless cans use high-def infrared signals to avoid interference and gives you true stereo sound, unlike the single ear variety.

The phones will sell for about $100 when then hit on March 20.

Ear Force X2 [Turtle Beach]

This is a very cool idea. Someone created their own wireless headset for the Xbox 360 using a Bluetooth adapter and Bluetooth headset. He just super glued a Jabra A210 Bluetooth adapter to the back of a controller and then plugged it in to the headset jack. The A210 adapter is a little transmitter designed to let you use Bluetooth headsets with phones that don't have Bluetooth. You just plug it in to any jack, turn it on and sync it up with a Bluetooth headset.

While this is a great mod, I'm not sure how much I care about having a wireless headset when the current model just plugs in to your wireless controller. I guess there are situations where this would be nice, but not a lot of them. I'm definetly going to check it out, because I happen to have both a Jabra Bluetooth headset and the A210.

Hit the link for the Flickr.

fateit77's photos [Flickr]

Ah, proof positive that voice chat is coming to the Playstation Portable.

PSP SOCOM Voice Chat [Kotaku]

I'm reviewing Fireteam Bravo and like everyone else doing so can't talk about multiplayer just yet. But I can point you to an interesting post over on Gizmodo about the likelyhood of voice chat in online play on the PSP third-person shooter. A reader there also points to EB Games which is already taking orders for a SOCOM Fireteam Bravo Headset.

PSP Headset on Nov 8 [Gizmodo]