Kotaku: Peripherals

Stix - A Wiimote For Your PC

Mike Fahey — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:40:00 MDT

This August PC gamers can briefly jump on the motion sensing bandwagon before shrugging and going back to keyboard and mouse control with a new line of vaguely Wiimote-looking controllers from GoLive2. Called Stix, the press release calls them motion-sensing touch-screen controllers, though the lack of an actual screen makes me think they meant touch-sensitive.

"Stix will completely change the way people experience online and PC gaming," said Brian Zheng, President, Plahut. "At purchase, Stix will be compatible with thousands of free online and retail games, and we're adding more games to that list daily. The fun is endless with Stix, and the wide-range of free, supported games makes this product perfect for every member of the family."

The Stix controller will come in two flavors at launch, the 2D motion sensing Stix 200 and the 3D Stix 400, both supported by the online gaming portal at http://Sphere.GoLive2.com.

Getting a Wiimote to work with your PC is really only fun for the novelty of it all. These look more like a me too than anything else. I mean, if I wanted to sit in front of my PC and shake my hand back and forth I'd...nevermind.

GOLIVE2 UNVEILS STIX, A NEW LINE OF WIRELESS, MOTION-SENSING CONTROLLERS SET TO REDEFINE PC GAMING

Compatible with Thousands of Free Online Games, Stix Touch-Screen Controllers Bring Active, Motion-Sensing Gameplay to the PC

CITY OF INDUSTRY, CALIF. - July 1, 2008 - GoLive2, the independent gaming division of Playhut, Inc., today introduced Stix, a new line of wireless, motion-sensing gaming controllers for the PC and Internet. Redefining the PC and online gaming experience, Stix are wireless, touch-screen controllers that allow users to play thousands of free Web-based games as well as Games For Windows® titles with an active, motion-sensing play pattern. For the first time, players can abandon their mouse and keyboard to experience online and PC games in an entirely new way! Available at retailers nationwide in August, Stix are designed for players six years and older.

"Stix will completely change the way people experience online and PC gaming," said Brian Zheng, President, Plahut. "At purchase, Stix will be compatible with thousands of free online and retail games, and we're adding more games to that list daily. The fun is endless with Stix, and the wide-range of free, supported games makes this product perfect for every member of the family."

Introducing an unprecedented level of active gameplay to PC gaming, the motion-sensitive Stix are compatible with thousands of existing, free online games. GoLive2 will unveil two versions of the Stix available at launch: Stix 200 and Stix 400. Designed for casual gamers, Stix 200 adds active gameplay to 2D online gaming. Stix 400 is compatible with both 2D and 3D environments for the ultimate online and Games for Windows gaming experience.

As a compliment to the Stix product line, GoLive2 has also launched a free, online game portal called Sphere (http://Sphere.GoLive2.com) that provides hundreds of free games to play with Stix controllers. Sphere consists of both internally-developed games designed exclusively for the Stix as well as hosted games from online game developers that support Stix. Sphere also features a search engine that connects users to thousands of compatible third-party free, online games. In addition, users can configure their favorite PC games to preferred Stix settings. Finally, developers of all skill levels have the ability to create new games that harness the unique Stix gameplay pattern.

Stix will be available at retailers nationwide in August 2008, along with the Sphere companion site (http://Sphere.GoLive2.com).

For more information on the Stix line, visit www.GoLive2.com.

Ben Heck's Guitar Hero Pedal

Luke Plunkett — Fri, 09 May 2008 02:30:00 MDT

What, Ben Heck, coming up with excellent, craft, gaming-related things? You don't say. This is his latest contraption, a heavy-duty pedal designed to work with Guitar Hero to give it that extra dash of authenticity. After Heck did some one-handed GH controllers for the Games for Health conference, Activision decided to send him some guitars for further experimentation, and these are what he came up with. Although primarily designed to allow someone with the use of only one hand to play Guitar Hero (as the pedal allows them to strum with their feet), they can also be used to activate the whammy bar, giving them a much more general application. While they look nice and rugged, the highlight's got to be the fact he wired them using the controller cables from an old Jaguar controller.

Guitar Hero pedal controllers [Ben Heck]

Skateboard, Other Controllers Coming to Xbox 360

Leigh Alexander — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:20:00 MDT

Is Microsoft answering the Wii Fit's Balance Board with some quirky accessories of its own? Qmotions, a subsidiary of a company called Actiga, announced it's partnering with Microsoft on a range of officially-endorsed third-party peripherals that use the Xbox 360's wireless tech.

Among these will be a Big Air action game controller to be launched in the second half of 2008, which Qmotions says is "a full size skateboard that operates with the Xbox 360 and is compatible with popular skateboarding games." The company had such a product, albeit wired, for the first Xbox compatible with SSX3 and Tony Hawk's American Wasteland

The companies didn't reveal other peripherals beyond the skateboard, nor did they say which games would be compatible with the upcoming products. But Xbox 360 owners, take heart: You, too, will soon be able take off your shoes and stand on something when you want to play video games.

Full release follows the jump.

Actiga Corporation (OTCBB:AGAC), a leading pioneer in active video gaming products and services, today announced that Qmotions, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Actiga, has signed a North American licensing agreement with Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq:MSFT), allowing Qmotions to incorporate Microsoft's Xbox 360 wireless technology in its game controllers. Under the agreement, Qmotions will produce a full-range of products that will be officially endorsed by Microsoft.
"This is a milestone event for our company that now enables us to design, develop and market a unique range of wireless products, bringing the excitement of action gaming to a whole new level on the Xbox 360 system," said Amro Albanna, chairman and CEO of Actiga. "We are excited to have been chosen as a Microsoft partner, particularly at this early stage of technology development where the award of Microsoft's wireless accessory agreement continues to position us at the cutting edge of technology."

"Our aim with the Xbox 360 system is to broaden the consumer videogame experience and ensure a perfect match between the console, the peripherals and the game," says Scott Loomis, Xbox Third Party Peripheral Program Manager. "Qmotions has proven their commitment to providing a variety of innovative and high quality peripherals to enhance the video gaming adventure. We will work closely with Qmotions to ensure the best experience for our Xbox 360 players."

The first application of the technology will be seen in the second half of 2008 when Qmotions launches a new line of wireless active game controllers. The company's first wireless product introduction will be the Qmotions-Big Air action game controller, a full size skateboard that operates with the Xbox 360 and is compatible with popular skateboarding games.

Wii60 Wheel Is Our Kind Of Mod

Mark Wilson — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 13:20:00 MDT

Works? Check.
Combines two otherwise cluttering peripherals? Check.
Takes like 5 seconds and requires no adhesives? Check.
Seriously? We're really lazy. Check.
Sends at least one fanboy into "angry coma?" Check.

SOLD!

The Wii60 wheel [GoNintendo]

Jug Hero, The New Global Phenomenon

Mark Wilson — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:00:00 MDT

Is Man ever really any happier than when He's playing with a nice pair of jugs? Apparently that's the philosophy behind Jug Hero.

Two players are assigned one jug instrument each, which they blow puffs of air into to score points. Players also "clink" their instruments together in a social "cheers!" that allots them bonus points.

The PC-based game uses a jug peripheral loaded with a microphone (to sense blowing), force-sensor (to sense cheersing/shattering) and a small keyboard (to entertain the hands). But since pictures speak 1,000 words and Flash video speaks...well there are estimates ranging from 10,000 to -208...we have gameplay footage for you after the jump.

If you live around San Mateo, you can check out Jug Hero this May 3rd and 4th at the Maker Faire.

P.S. Anyone who thinks that these people look stupid has not played Guitar Hero in the mirror.

Jug Hero @ Maker Faire [MAKE]

Oh, That MGS4 Headset Is Real

Luke Plunkett — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 05:30:00 MDT

Not real. Pffft. What the hell do I know. Turns out that Bluetooth MGS4 headset is real, as over the weekend we learned that the product is not only already appearing in the catalogue of peripheral manufacturer PDP, but has also begun turning up in retail databases across Europe and the US. You can see above part of the entry in PDP's latest retailer catalogue (full-page version after the click), which not only confirms the headset's existence, but its feature set as well. For $60, you'll be getting up to 8 hours talk time, a 30ft range, an auto-shut-off function to save battery life and a snazzy little carry case. The headset will be released on June 12, same day as the game itself.

[Thanks Luca & Tyler!]

Triforce Cutting Board, Now You're Playing With Flour

Mark Wilson — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 13:40:00 MDT

For Kotaku's ever-growing chef contingent, this Zelda-inspired cutting board is built from the finest (we don't really know if it is the finest, but it sounds good) walnut and hard-maple wood for chopping as many leafy vegetables as it takes for gems to pop out. We know the $125 price tag will prove too hefty for some, but for what is surely the world's first foray into unlicensed, triforce-themed cutting blocks, we can't complain too much. Besides, we'd drop that amount in a heart piece if it included a bundled Master Sword Ginsu. We apologize for the lame puns. We're all done now.

Triforce End-Grain Cutting Board [Etsy via HawtyMcBloggy]

Wii Gets A Pretty New GameCube Controller

Luke Plunkett — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 02:30:00 MDT

Gorgeous. Nintendo are releasing sometime later this month a new, white GameCube controller, no doubt to satisfy the growing throngs of not only Smash Bros (and soon to be Mario Kart) players, but Wii-white console colour fetishists as well. It'll retail for a suggested price of ¥2000 (around USD$20), comes with the requisite 3m cable and, as you've probably figured from that squiggly thing in front of the 2000, is at least for the moment Japan-only.
Controllers [Nintendo, via Go Nintendo]

Capcom Monster Hunter Monster PSP Holder

Brian Ashcraft — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 05:00:37 MDT

Get a grip! Peripheral maker MSY has released out this officially Capcom licensed, enormous steering wheel peripheral thing called the "MONSTER HUNTER GRIP." It's for the PSP Slim & Lite and totally defeats the purpose of both the "slim" and the "lite" part. We guess it's to make it easier to hold onto your PSP during hour after hour of Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G play. It'll also make it easier for you to look like a goober.
Monster Hunter Thingy [Game Watch via Gay Gamer]

UMEMD Adds 4 Memory Sticks To PSP

Mark Wilson — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:20:27 MDT

Is your one Memory Stick slot in your PSP just not enough? Hacker-modders at Team Executer are releasing an add-on called the UMEMD that allows you to hold 4 additional memory sticks without a fanny pack (or whatever the kids carry these days). A plastic UMD-shaped adapter, the priceless UMEMD slides into PSP-1000s and stores your precious digital cargo with ease.

In full disclosure, we were totally confused first glance at how this could possibly work. Then we realized that the UMEMD just held the Memory Sticks and didn't claim to translate them to some magical UMD-laser-happy format.

UMEMD [Team Executer via Maxconsole]

Buy Some Wii Crap For Your Wii Fit

Luke Plunkett — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 05:30:00 MDT

Wii Fit's coming! Means that, along with it, will come a load of crap aimed at prying some extra cash from gullible Wii owners. Crap like this crap here. Above are two examples of Subsonic's line of Wii Fit "merchandise". Some of it looks barely practical. Some of it makes snake oil look like a Swiss army knife. On offer are silicon mats (so you don't slip!), a rechargeable battery pack for the balance board (OK, that's somewhat useful), a carry bag for your balance board (let's work our fat thighs off at your place!) and, best of all, a "microfiber spray and dust cleaner for special electronic materials"!!!!!! No, thanks.
Subsonic Wii Fit Accessories

A Great and Most Pointless PSP Accessory

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 23:00:12 MDT

Okay, yes, it's nothing but colored cardboard and it's US $12 dollars for the set, but still. It's a mini arcade for the PSP. We're not sure this is even necessary (it's not), but we admire the delightfully meaningless gumption.
Cardboard Mini Arcade [Perpetual Kid via ALBOTAS]

4000dpi Razer Lachesis Mouse Reviewed (Verdict: Great)

Mark Wilson — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 12:40:31 MDT

When the term "dots per inch" was first coined by printers, I wonder if anyone predicted laser-fed device feeding a computer 4000dpi information in real time. Because the new Razer Lachesis does just that. With twice the precision of the heralded Logitech G5 along with plenty of programmable buttons and the ability to load custom control profiles by game, a recent review of the Lachesis by Techware Labs calls the mouse an "awesome product" good for lefties and righties alike. Our only tip is if the mouse doesn't work out for you, tell no one that you dropped $65+ on it. Hit the link for the full review.

Razer Lachesis 4000dpi Gaming Mouse [Techware Labs]

RumbleSeat, The Gamer's Loveseat

Mark Wilson — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:20:50 MDT

We've all seen the seats with built-in speakers, but they are severely limited. While a couch is multifunctional—prepared for an impromptu nap or make-out session—current gaming chairs offer a more narrow seated existence good only for one person in one position.

The $248.95 RumbleSeat offers vibrate-y gaming for two. While not hooking directly to your console, it will serve as an additional set of speakers for your television. And just imagine sitting next to your best friend after beating Army of Two, your rears sweating on the baby blue microfiber cover, the musk of another's Cheeto breathe entering your nostrils...good luck capturing that awkward sexual tension on a unicycle.

RumbleSeat [Boomchair via Crave]

Crossbow Peripheral That Really Shoots Stuff

Brian Ashcraft — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 06:00:06 MDT

That's right, kooky Wii-mote peripherals! Endless!! Just have a gander at this US $28 "Laser Sight Crossbow Controller for Wii" and marvel. From what we can gather, players can actually use this peripheral as not only a Wii-mote holder, but as to launch a safety-tipped arrow at their televisions. This is either the best peripheral or the worst. It all depends on how many eyes it puts out.
Laser Sight Crossbow [Gizmodo]

OCZ Technology Challenging Emotiv With Brain Mouse

Mark Wilson — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 13:20:39 MST

With the Emotiv Epoc incident still fresh in our minds, a company called OCZ Technology is planning to release a $300 USB mind reading electroencephalograph (EEG) of their own. But their pitch is less about disappearing boulders than controlling a mouse with your mind in games you already own.

So does it work? From what we can tell, you need to prod a real mouse in the right direction, and then your mind sort of takes care of the rest. So in one word—no.

OCZ to launch 'brain mouse': Neural Impulse Actuator for multi-core PCs [QJ Net]

Wii Sensor Bar With Digital Clock Jammed In It

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 23:00:59 MST

Not sure whether to file this under ingenious or pointless. Peripheral maker CYBER Gadget has put a digital clock in its 2Way Sensor Bar. It costs ¥1980 (US$18) and can powered by an open USB port or four AA batteries for wireless mode. $18 is a small price to pay for not having to look at your watch while playing Wii games!
2Way Sensor Bar [CYBER Gadget via Famitsu via ALBOTAS]

Rock Band Drum Kits on Store Shelves

fdemarco — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 14:00:00 MST

We've gotten a flood of emails about this so here goes. The Rock Band stand alone drum kits have been spotted in the wild from Best Buy to Circuit City. They are retailing for $79.99 but the single guitars have yet to be found. Combined with the purchase of the game on its own your still looking at over a hundred bucks so unless your looking to launch your career as a solo drummer you're probably better off just buying the bundle since many places seem to be selling it at a reduced rate.

[Thanks to Blake for the photo]

Remembering The Joystick

Luke Plunkett — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 07:20:00 MST

Man, what happened to the joystick? One minute, it's the only way to play (or at least fly), the next, they're gathering dust up the back of your local games store, under the shelf where they keep LCD screen cleaners and novelty disc trays. Where'd it all go wrong? A cute piece on MSN UK asks that very question, taking the view that, like Sam Neil argues in Jurassic Park, the joystick never really went away. It just evolved, in this case not into birds, but into the thumbsticks featuring across all of today's consoles. Which is a nice thought, but when I look at my dear old friend pictured above, and then at a control pad, it's just not the same. Excuse me....*sniff*
Whatever happened to the joystick [MSN, via Slashdot]

So Your Girl Needs A New Shirt?

Luke Plunkett — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 23:30:00 MST

Say there's a special someone in your life. That special someone is partial to the ol' video gaming. Thing is, her wardrobe...it's kinda ratty. One part of you finds that endearing - in a cute, bohemian kinda way - the other half just thinks it's kinda ratty. That other half may want to buy her a new shirt. One that both gets her a new shirt and manages to cram a shitload of gaming controllers (including the Boomerang!) into its design. If so, you really can't go past this one, from FIFTY24SF. You can get it at the link below (search for FIFTY24SF in women's shirts).

Of course, if you are a girl, please disregard above advice and head straight for the checkout. If you're an incredibly petit man...hey, it's worth a shot.
[Digital Gravel]

Morph PSP Slim Into PlayStation Controller

Brian Ashcraft — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 07:00:04 MST

For those who feel more comfortable, at home even, with the PlayStation controller, take heart. Kyoto online retailer Vis-a-Vis has you covered. It's got a "Flexible Hand Grip Pad Advance" for the Slim & Lite PSP. (There's a model for the original PSP as well!) The add-on is only ¥980 (US $9.20) and perfect for people with gianormous hands.
Product Page [Vis-a-Vis via Famitsu]

Better Than The Wii-mote Controller?

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 03:00:11 MST

Not happy with the Wii-mote? Motus Corporation is working on a Wii-motesque controller for consoles and PCs. Dubbed the "Darwin," the controller has better and more realistic control says the manufacturer thanks to greater gyroscope and accelerometer complexity. The company has built super realistic controllers for golfers to practice their swing, and this background gives an edge says Motus. Apparently, the Darwin aligns itself with magnetic north and knows where it is in space. The Darwin will be out later this year and retailing in the US $79 ~ $99 ballpark.
Darwin Controller [Giz]

Those Rock Band Mics? They're Not Wii Ready

Michael McWhertor — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:00 MST

When a standalone Rock Band microphone peripheral started showing up on store shelves, it was an exciting time. The thing promised support for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii, seemingly confirming a Wii version was definitely in the works. The good news is that Electronic Arts execs finally confirmed that such a product existed. The bad? The microphone may not actually perform as expected on Nintendo's platform.

Reps from Rock Band peripheral manufacturer PDP told us "Our packaging mistakenly states that that the microphone is compatible with the Wii. Unfortunately, this is not the case and will be corrected in future versions of the packaging." They apologized profusely for the confusion. Hope you didn't horde a few dozen of USB microphones based on the packaging mistake—and hopes that the Polyphonic Spree would appear as future DLC.

XFPS Rate Up Adapter Is Available For PS3

Mark Wilson — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 13:40:19 MST

While the PS3 is already pretty friendly to most mouse and keyboard setups, the XFPS Rate Up Adapter (formerly just for the Xbox 360) is a peripheral that allows you to remap SIXAXIS controls to your stubborn PC ways of old and control any game as you would a computer title. It's completely plug and play and supports 95% of keyboards and mice on the market. Wait, we just read this thing is $100. Seriously? Maybe you could justify the purchase when combined with a backward compatible PS3 that could add mouse control to PS2 titles. But we're betting that $100 would probably look better sitting somewhere inside your PC.

XFPS RATEUP for PS3 [TotalConsole]

Stop PS3 Danger Dust!

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 22:00:34 MST

Dust is a problem. A big, big problem. Well, it is for my PS3. Those dust particles cannot be good when they get sucked up in the consle's air vents. But, I can't even seem to keep it dust free! Peripheral maker Hori has a solution: Dust Guard Kit 3. Guarding all four air vents, it includes a filter that prevents dust and things like cigarette smoke from entering the PS3. There are also covers for open ports, too! Sounds just like what the dust doctor ordered.
Dust Guard Kit 3 [Hori Thanks, moogoat!]

Bionic Eyes Could Change The Face Of Gaming

Mike Fahey — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 11:20:40 MST

What if instead of having your television cluttered with interface elements while playing an FPS, you could have the HUD displayed directly on your eye? This is one of the possible applications of the bionic eye created by engineers at the University of Washington, which utilizes microscopic manufacturing techniques to contact lenses imprinted with electronic circuits and lights. While the current prototype has yet to light up and a full display version is still years away, the possibilities for such a device are staggering. From the press release:

There are many possible uses for virtual displays. Drivers or pilots could see a vehicle's speed projected onto the windshield. Video-game companies could use the contact lenses to completely immerse players in a virtual world without restricting their range of motion. And for communications, people on the go could surf the Internet on a midair virtual display screen that only they would be able to see.

Not only would the gaming applications be amazing, but imagine a world where porn is just a blink away! Now that's some real innovation right there.

Contact lenses with circuits, lights a possible platform for superhuman vision [UWNews.org]

Ubisoft Games to Support amBX Surround Sense Tech

Brian Crecente — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:20:54 MST

Philip's sort of over the top amBX, "surround sense" technology will work with a number of upcoming Ubisoft titles including Brother in Arms: Hell's Highway and Far Cry 2. Games Industry reports that both games are being demoed with the full on amBX tech which includes colored lighting, rumble, air flow and sound.

Working with one of the world's largest publishers on two of the most successful gaming franchises of all time is an amazing opportunity for our amBX technology to really shine in front of a worldwide audience," said amBX COO Jo Cooke.
"Brothers in Arms: Hell's Highway and Far Cry 2 are titles that will showcase just how powerful and in your face amBX effects can be in a war game. This is just the start of the alliance between amBX and Ubisoft and the level of our comarketing with Ubisoft will underline our dedication to bringing all-new ambient effects to world class games."

I've seen the amBX stuff in action before and while I can't imagine dropping the money for the set-up, I bet it would really blow you away when playing a game like Far Cry 2, what with it's weather effects and frequent use of raging wildfires.

Philips also told Games Industry that while the system only currently supports PC games, console "announcements" are on the way soon too.

Hell's Highway and Far Cry 2 show off "surround sense" [Games Industry]

3D Mouse for Second Life

torif — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:40:55 MST

When playing Second Life, do you ever sit and think to yourself, "geez, I really wish that I could do all this pesky moving with only my mouse hand, so I had my other hand free to make my avatar gesture at other players"? Really? Well, then Sandio has a mouse for you. The Sandio 3D Game O2 Mouse lets players of second life move in all directions, fly, and crouch by using the mouse. It can also be used for RTS and RPG games for improved navigation and camera manipulation, or with CAD programs like Google SketchUp.
The mouse will be available for demo at CES, and is on sale in the U.S., Canada, Japan, and China, for US$79.99.

Sandio 3D Mouse - Your New Generation Input Device [CES Press Room]

New Gaming Peripherals from Wolfking

torif — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 12:20:31 MST

Wolfking unveiled its MVP Series Warrior Gamepad and Trooper Mouse at CES today, the biggest change from previous incarnations seems to be a matte black finish.

To be fair, this enhanced version of the Trooper Mouse has a programmable frame rate of over 7,080 frames per second, high speed motion detection, and a patented Rapid Fire Switch, which will allow gamers to click up to four times with a single button push. And the ergonomic design and LED sensor displays do make it look like a good, high-end gaming mouse, although for an MSRP of US$59.99, you'd expect it to be.

The MVP Series Warrior Gamepad (MSRP: US$34.99) appears to have minimal upgrades from the original, with the same 55-key layout and USB 2.0 connectivity as its predecessor. Wolfking does say that this version has a high level of customizability, though.

Both peripherals are available in that sleek matte black, with the option of a red, blue, or silver accent gradient.

WOLFKING Introduces MVP Series Gamepad and Mouse [CES Press Room]

Drumshhh Makes Silencing Rock Band Drums Easy

Mark Wilson — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 12:00:26 MST

We've been doing our best to keep the Kotaku readership up to date with the latest and greatest developments in Rock Band drums silencing technologies. First we told you about a hack that used foam and felt head toppers. And then a reader called our bluff and tested it. The idea worked great, but it required, you know, unlaziness.

Now a new company is selling Drumshhh pads specifically for Rock Band drums. Self-adhesive tops comprised of the same foam/felt concoction we've seen others test, Drumshhh pads are ready to stick on your drums out of the box and claim to reduce ambient drum noise by 50%. Plus, they come in four different styles for those looking to sexify their peripherals a bit. We're not sure about what the price will be at this time, but if it's under $10, we'd give it a try.

Drumshhh [via ironicgamer]

Microsoft Racing Wheel Reduced to $99

Mark Wilson — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:40:29 MST

Almost just in time for the holidays, Microsoft has SLASHED PRICES!! on their official Wireless Racing Wheel. Formerly $130 retail, the heralded peripheral will now run a more palatable $100. So once again, procrastination pays off and late shoppers everywhere get to save a few bucks before Christmas.

With so many great racing games available, I should really pick one of these up to better appreciate the genre. But man, another peripheral? Rock Band's controllers were the cherry on top of me never having a semblance of a real living room again. So as long as I've gone this far already...

Here's the full press release:

Microsoft is now giving holiday shoppers even more value by reducing the price of its incredibly popular Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel by $30 to just $99 (U.S. ERP). The newly priced Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel now comes bundled with a driver disc and a demo of the acclaimed "Forza Motorsport 2" including full force feedback support. With its sleek design and cutting edge technology, the Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel immerses gamers in an unparalleled racing experience.
The Wireless Racing Wheel is compatible with all of the most popular racing games on Xbox 360, including:

Forza Motorsport 2
Project Gotham Racing 4
Project Gotham Racing 3
Test Drive Unlimited
Need for Speed Carbon
DiRT
Nascar 08

Wii Gets The Shaft

Mark Wilson — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 12:40:20 MST

Honesty: the only reason we chose to post this at all was the name. We'd like to say we were above obvious phallic puns, or that we cared about VC Fatal Fury players as we would our own children. We'd like to say something vague, faux deep and impossible to defend, like that current hand held controllers have ruined gaming forever, leading us to move into a cave with a massive stock of AAs where we'd only play Tiger racing while living off various fungi. We'd pretty much just like to be bigger people in general. Until that day never comes, if you want to get the shaft, it's $39.95.

WiiShaft [via gizmodo]

Blue 360 Controller in the House

Brian Crecente — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 13:00:25 MDT

Just received this blue Xbox 360 controller at the house. The dark blue and pink models are hitting stores in North America, Australia and New Zealand (Asia, Europ and Japan get light blue) in October for $50 a pop. I don't know. I don't quite get the idea of new colors for controllers. I'm sorta on board for new colors for portable gaming systems because you carry those around with you and take them out in public. But a controller? And if you're putting out a new controller, shouldn't you release a recharge kit in that color. I hate that my blue controller is going to have a white recharge battery pack on it.

Rock Band: Only Bundles Available Until 2008

fdemarco — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 11:00:00 MDT

Our friends over at the bbps got a chance to put the thumbscrews on a Harmonix rep recently at the PlayStation Holiday Press Preview Event in Toronto, Canada about Rock Band. They managed to get a ton of great info regarding things like price and frequency of downloadable content, competing with Guitar Hero and different development issues. One of the really interesting subjects was that of the bundle vs individual peripherals. It seems that Rock Band will be available as a bundle only through 2007 meaning that you will not be able to buy the separate peripherals until 2008.

I realize the wording on this can be confusing so allow me to clarify just to be sure it's understood. Rock Band will always be available as a bundle. However until 2008 it will only be available as a bundle. Once the new year hits you'll be able to buy the separate peripherals, until then it's bundles only. Hopefully that's got it explained properly.

For all the rockin details on this and other subjects, be sure to check out bbps' great and informative interview.

Rock Band: the bundles, dlc pricing, the Guitar Hero stigma, disconnected gaming and more [the bbps]

Razer's New Gaming Keyboard

Brian Crecente — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 05:00:47 MDT

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)

The Ship Gets 3D Control Support

Brian Crecente — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 16:00:37 MDT

Merscom Games is teaming up with Novint Technologies to start putting 3D touch technology into some of their games. Normally I wouldn't be that interested in this news, what with Merscom churning out such titles as Terrorist Takedown and WW II Tank Commander, but they are also the publisher behind The Ship and, well, that kicked ass.

What this news means is that you'll now be able to use the Novint Falcon controller in The Ship. The controller works like a sort of floating mouse. The device allows players to "feel weight, shape, texture dimension, dynamics and force effects" which is kind of cool, though also sort of unnecessary.

CHAPEL HILL, NC and ALBUQUERQUE, NM - October 4, 2007 - Novint Technologies, Inc. (NVNT), the pioneer of 3D touch for consumer computing, has partnered with Merscom, a leading global publisher of computer and video games, to make a variety of titles available for the new Falcon game controller. Merscom will integrate Novint's patented 3D touch technology into titles including The Ship, WWII Tank Commander, Masterpiece Fishing, Buku Dominoes and Jewel Craft.

"We're excited about bringing this incredible new technology to our customers." said Merscom CEO, Kirk Owen. "The Novint Falcon is a great new interface that adds a whole new layer to the player experience."

Novint CEO, Tom Anderson, said, "The Ship and Merscom's other titles are great games that are fun to play. Adding our 3D touch technology will let people experience their favorite Merscom games in an entirely new way."

The Novint Falcon controller takes gaming to a new level, making virtual game objects, environments and actions feel real. Players feel weight, shape, texture dimension, dynamics and force effects using the award winning high-fidelity controller. The Merscom titles will be available to download through the N VeNT™ player, Novint's interface to Falcon games, information, software updates, unique content, and community.

Look, It's A Wii Zapper Box

Mike Fahey — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 18:30:42 MDT

Sure it's a lovely box, but until they put that little sticker on the bottom left it was merely a curiosity. That little recycled picture of Link is gonna make this puppy sell like a puppy made of gold, filled with chocolate when it hits stores in November. Nintendo has released a little overview of the Zapper and Link's Crossbow Training along with the image, which details operation of the gun peripheral and an overview of Link's three game modes. Those modes are Target Shooting, which is a shooting gallery type game, Defender, in which you stand still while assaulted on all sides by enemies, and Ranger, which you have to play while singing "Sister Christian" at the top of your lungs. You're motoring!

Link returns from The Legend of Zelda®: Twilight Princess to pick up the Wii Zapper and take aim at a host of targets in this shooting-gallery-style game.
* Anyone can pick up the Wii Zapper and become a master marksman in the quick-play shooting galleries of Link's Crossbow Training. Dozens of fast-paced stages offer a wide variety of game play, from shooting stationary targets to defending a supply wagon from onrushing hordes of enemies. Multiplayer modes let players and their friends share a Wii Zapper to shoot for the high score.
* Link's Crossbow Training comes bundled with the Wii Zapper. After a few rounds of Link's Crossbow Training, players will be more than ready to pick up any of the future Wii Zapper titles, like Medal of Honor Heroes™ 2, Ghost Squad™ and Resident Evil®: The Umbrella Chronicles.

Using the Wii Zapper: The Wii Zapper requires the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, housing both in a comfortable and intuitive frame. The control stick on the Nunchuk controls player movement (on stages that allow player movement), while simply aiming the Wii Zapper moves the targeting reticule on the screen. Pulling the trigger fires Link's crossbow. By aiming off screen, players can turn Link to face in a new direction (again, on stages that allow this).

Link's Crossbow Training contains three basic game styles: target shooting, defender and ranger. There are 27 stages in total, and these categories represent only generally how each individual stage operates. Each stage's goal is to earn the highest score possible within the time limit. All rounds can be played with multiple players: Players pass the Wii Zapper around and then play one at a time and compete for the high score.

Target Shooting: In target-shooting rounds, players shoot bull's-eyes as they pop up on the screen. In early stages, targets are stationary. As the game difficulty increases in later levels, the targets move. Hitting the center of the bull's-eye nets more points, and hitting targets in succession without missing earns combo multipliers. Link can aim anywhere on the screen.

Defender: In defender rounds, players remain stationary but can look and aim in all directions - sometimes even in a full 360 degrees - by aiming off screen. Hordes of enemies assault Link, and he must fight them off. These battles have a great deal of variety, from fighting off skeletons in a desert to defending a wagon from boar-riding Bokoblins.

Ranger: In ranger rounds, players can move throughout the level using the control stick and aim anywhere they want by aiming the Wii Zapper wherever they want to look. In these missions, Link storms enemy encampments, fights his way through a forest and seeks out his foes while exploring the environments.

Logitech Mating Wii-mote and SIXAXIS?

Brian Ashcraft — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 06:40:19 MDT

The people sure love that Wii-mote. It's maybe about perfect, right? Nope! "If you couldn't improve on it, we wouldn't be in business," says Logitech's Chris Spearing. The peripheral maker thinks it can one-up Nintendo and made a serious contender. The company is planning to announce a new Wii periph that *may* challenge Nintendo's remote. And how the hell could they do that? By mating the Wii-mote with the SIXAXIS. Or something. Spearing explains:

Having the motion-sensing in the SIXAXIS, that really works for some games. And for the Wii — you've seen people rush out and buy the Wii for that realism, if you're swinging a tennis racket, you know how to do it. Hopefully we'll be at the forefront of pushing that further, combining some of the two.

Oh. Alright. You do that.
Wiimote Rival? [GamesIndustry]

Microsoft Announces Its Own Gaming Mouse

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 00:30:45 MDT

At the Leipzig Games Convention today, Microsoft Hardware announced its SideWinder line. Microsoft's SideWinder Mouse was built from the ground up and designed specially for gaming. The mouse is tricked out with various features like one-touch Windows Vista Games Explorer access, Quick Turn button that lets users check their in-game perimeter, a weight cartridge system for personalizing the mouse's weight and an LCD built onto the mouse. The mouse will go on sale this October for US $79.95. We were guessing it would retail for more, but it's only 79 bucks. "Only 79 bucks." Ha! Hit the jump for the full press release:

Microsoft Hardware's Got Game: SideWinder Line Is Back With a Mouse That Defines Customized Gaming Control

SideWinder Mouse is group's first gaming mouse built in-house from the ground up.

LEIPZIG, Germany ─ Aug. 22, 2007 ─ Today at the Games Convention in Leipzig, Germany, Microsoft Hardware debuts the revival of its SideWinder™ line with its first gaming mouse built from the ground up — a product that transcends the mouse category to become a customizable gaming system.

The Microsoft® SideWinder Mouse was created to meets gamers' individual needs, providing custom tuning tools and a design for ultimate handling. The first mouse to wear the coveted SideWinder name, this top-of-the-line gaming machine sets itself apart from the competition with never-before-seen features that gamers want, uncovered during worldwide research. Features include one-touch access to Windows Vista® Games Explorer, Quick Turn — a performance-enhancing macro that lets users check their perimeter from wherever they are in-game — the first-ever LCD on a gaming mouse, and a cable anchor that doubles as an accessories storage box.

"We're taking gaming mice to a new level with a mouse created in direct response to gamer feedback from all over the world; it offers superior customization and performance handling," said Bill Jukes, product marketing manager for Microsoft Hardware. "We found that gamers are a lot like performance car enthusiasts. They like to tweak and tune their mouse to get it just right, and today we are giving them the tools to create a personalized experience that lets them focus on what's important: being at the top of their game."

The SideWinder Mouse marks the return of the popular SideWinder line of gaming peripherals, established in 1995 and known for its top-notch PC gaming peripherals, including game pads, joysticks and steering wheels. The SideWinder Mouse adds to the line of PC gaming products and reinforces Microsoft Corp.'s continued commitment to PC gamers.

Nearly 5,000 Mice in One

The SideWinder Mouse lets gamers create an individual gaming system with tuning options that allow them to personalize their SideWinder Mouse, including an adjustable weight tray, changeable mice feet with three materials for glide preference, DPI control and new software features. The SideWinder Mouse lets gamers record their own macros by tying a sequence of actions into one press of a button. With all the features in this new mouse, gamers can transform their mouse into nearly 5,000 different mice from a single system.

These new features allow gamers to do the following:

o Turn on a dime. The new Quick Turn feature — a performance-enhancing macro — is built right into the software and lets users check their perimeter at any angle from wherever they are in the game with the click of a button.
o Choose the perfect weight. The SideWinder Mouse has a weight cartridge system and comes with four weights (up to 30 grams) so gamers can customize the weight of the mouse to their preference.
o Choose from three sets of feet to match gameplay preference. The SideWinder Mouse ships with three sets of feet, offering varied levels of glide depending on personal preference and the surface used.
o Instantly switch between DPI settings. A 2,000-DPI laser engine delivers super-fast response time, and three DPI switches behind the scroll wheel allow gamers to toggle between low-, medium- and high-sensitivity settings — in-game, at any time.

The First Gaming Mouse System

The SideWinder Mouse is more than a gaming mouse — it's a gaming system. To complement the customizable options, this mouse has the following three innovative features to make it the ultimate gaming package:

* LCD. With the first LCD on a gaming mouse, gamers can easily keep track of key gaming actions — including their DPI and steps for recording macros — without being distracted from the game.
* Cable management system. The unique cable management system offers the feel of a wireless mouse with the connection speed of a wired mouse by holding the extra cable and preventing it from getting caught on other items on the desk. The cable management system doubles as a storage compartment for extra weights and feet.
* Quick-Launch. The new Quick-Launch button demonstrates the exceptional way in which Microsoft ties hardware and software together. When the Quick-Launch button is pressed from within Windows Vista, it will bring up the Windows Vista Games Explorer so gamers can instantly see the games available in their PC's game library.

"Great games on Windows® deserve great controllers, and the new Sidewinder Mouse delivers," said Kevin Unangst, director of Games for Windows at Microsoft. "The SideWinder Mouse is an ideal companion for every game, from your favorite PC classics to the upcoming releases 'Crysis,' 'Hellgate: London,' 'World in Conflict' and more."

Designed for Performance Handling

The SideWinder Mouse also features a unique design with key ergonomic elements designed to allow gamers hours of comfortable play. Features include the following:

* Two vertical side buttons. This side placement allows gamers to feel exactly which button they're pressing, thereby reducing the risk of executing the wrong command midgame.
* A wide, detented metal scroll wheel. The wheel design helps gamers feel each movement as they scroll, and the wide metal finish adds elegance and control to the mouse.
* Balanced weight. Designed for quick, balanced, comfortable precision gaming action and painted black with a crimson-red stripe, the SideWinder Mouse has gamers in mind from top to bottom.

Pricing and Availability

Microsoft SideWinder Mouse will be widely available in October 2007 for an estimated retail price of $79.95 (U.S.).* The SideWinder Mouse is now available for special pre-sale on Amazon.com and will ship in October when the product is widely released. More information about the Microsoft SideWinder Mouse can be found on http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/gaming/sidewinder and http://www.siteofchampions.com.

Mad Catz Sales Down 20%, Profit Up 10%

Mark Wilson — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:00:49 MDT

Compared to this quarter one year ago, Mad Catz' overall sales have dropped from $18.1 million to $14.6 million. But due to better operating and a cleaner product line, they have seen their gross profit margin grow 10%.

But that sales number is stil disheartening for the company. Why the low number? I'm guessing that Microsoft's proprietary wireless technology alongside Nintendo's patented Wiimote isn't helping one bit. Where Mad Catz has undersold the slightly more polished but equivalent competition for years, they are now left unable to compete. So in many ways, the fate of Mad Catz will be tied to the PS3's success and their ability to adapt outside the controller market.

Mad Catz Q1 2008 Sees Loss Narrowed [gamedaily]