No, I mean who really has everything - like, there is literally no Wii-related consumer good that they do not own apart from the one you are going to buy them.

Can we cautiously recommend the Hori Remote Controller Pocket? It is a smalll cardboard box that you can put your WiiMote and Nunchuck in. It's got 'Wii' written on the front in the correct font and everything. Er, that's it.

Even the National Console Support store, who are the ones trying to sell the thing on import seem mystified. Observe their high-pressure sales technique:

Anyone can fashion a similar pouch from an empty tissue box, a wonton soup container, a paper bag, or the cardboard box that your GA-KO Alarm Clock arrived in. Sure it won't look as nice as Hori's rendition but the functionality is the same and the cardboard box is free.

Sure, it's only $9, but there is a global recession on, for goodness' sake!

Remote Controller Pocket [NCSX via Wonderland]

"Of course we're incredibly pleased - delighted would probably be a better adjective - that Nintendo approached us... but it's not an exclusive relationship," Virginia told us. "I can't get into details about other folks that are interested in this technology, but as you might imagine of course there is more interest out there."

We've heard rumblings about Microsoft and Sony exploring motion control in the past, and those rumblings should only get louder now that the tech is available to make it actually work.

MotionPlus tech not exclusive to Nintendo [Eurogamer]

Anascape sued back in 2006 and went for the kitchen sink, claiming Nintendo and Microsoft both infringed on controller designs they had patented. Microsoft settled with Anascape. The original suit against Nintendo covered everything from the Gamecube forward — the Wavebird and the Classic, plus the Wiimote and Nunchuk. The case decided in May found infringements only on the former two not the motion-sensing controls in the Wii. Still, $21 million is not pocket change.

Nintendo's Appeal on Reduced $21M Verdict Denied [QJ.net]

Quoth Don:

Was the weight difference, a very noticeable one, messing with the ‘mote’s center-point?

Yes, in fact. Replacing the rechargeable pack with a standard set of crap-assed gas station batteries made our karts dead center again.

Now I’ve got to figure out how to add weight to my charger packs. That or play Kart at an odd angle.

So, fair warning, considering that the React dock runs about $50, if you Kart like hell and are considering eco-friendly ways to keep your 'Mote juiced. Does anyone else have the same kind of issue, or just this guy?

Peripheral Disdain [Videolamer, thanks taidan]

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]

Innovating on that console is the key, Iwata explains. And if Nintendo can keep beating others to the punch on new ways to play new games, it will do just fine.

"What matters to us is whether or not we can continue to constantly create and offer new surprises one after another. If we can, then (other company's attempt to launch Wii Remote-like controller) should not be a big threat.

The efforts in this field to try to appeal to a wide variety of customers are something in which we saw potential early on and that we have been working on the longest, so there appears to be no reason whatsoever why we need to be concerned."

Iwata says that the video game space can be a risky place for new entrants — sure, no argument. But Microsoft is hardly some art-house developer looking for a break, and it's shown enormous tolerance for losing money here, too.

Still The $64,000 question here is more for Microsoft than Nintendo. Microsoft probably wants to use an "Xmote" to unify casual and hardcore gamers into buying a 360. Perhaps Sony thought the same thing too, and the SIXAXIS has gotten absolutely nowhere as an innovation on the PS3, where it is optional, not integral, to gaming.

Of course you can use a Wiimote for a driving game more serious than Mario Kart, but gamers have gotten by just fine without one. And there's such an orthdoxy to FPS controls now, I'm not sure it makes much difference. So, yes, a controller by itself means little. The titles that are written specifically for it, that is where the threat lies, and its something no one can estimate just yet.

Iwata Not Threatened by Rumored Xbox 360 Wiimote Clone [QJ.Net, thanks to El Cernex]

There's no doubt—the Virtual Archery Bow is completely absurd. But it's almost poetic in its fanaticism. Is there something to be said for higher quality Wiimote accessories for the niche enthusiast?

As long as some people are willing to buy golf club extensions and tiny tennis rackets, why not just cut the foreplay, put a disclaimer on the package and offer the real thing?

Wiimote-Modded Bow for Hardcore Zelda Wannabes [Gizmodo]

Now 8bitjoystick, a blog known for close affiliation with somebody at Microsoft, is confirming that the peripheral indeed exists under the codename "Newton," and that the public could see the device by this winter.

Their details tell of a device using licensed Gyration patents—the same firm Nintendo scored much of their tech—that utilizes an LED sensor bar, accelerometers and gyroscope, as well as separate 2-way wireless communication (just like the Wiimote uses Bluetooth, the 36mote would probably use Microsoft's proprietary frequency).

8bitjoystick speculates that the Xbox Play & Charge battery pack will fit in the controller, and will dictate much of its design (assuring curved edges and a dual-AA width).

My thought on the matter is why wouldn't Microsoft make such a device? So what if it flops? So what if Microsoft loses a few licensing dollars? A 360mote would allow Microsoft to compete with not just Sony, but Nintendo as well.

Xbox 360 "Newton" Motion Sensing Controller Confirmed [8bitjoystick]

Wii controls to defuse bombs [Metro.co.uk]

Gawker Media polls require Javascript; if you're viewing this in an RSS reader, click through to view in your Javascript-enabled web browser.

Of course, this version appears to be hilariously official.

Fade2Black [Flickr via IronicGamer]

With the R2 button hanging by a thread, a sweeping upward motion is required to press it. The R1 button is missing entirely, and thus unusable. The L1 button has been knocked off its axis a bit, although it still works. And the PS button is stuck in the depressed position. Analog stick functions seem to work fine, as does patented SIXAXIS tilt control, insofar as patented SIXAXIS tilt control works at all.

I'm not the controller flinging type, though I do frequently threaten to toss consoles out my window; still, it's a funny (and perhaps relevant, depending on your play style) read.

Control Pad Stress Test: PlayStation 3 SIXAXIS, Control Pad Stress Test: Xbox 360 Control Pad, Control Pad Stress Test: The Wii Remote [Insult Swordfighting]

Even playing this admittedly buggy tech demo of a light saber battle, we were impressed by the responsiveness of the controller. Maybe it was the audio tracking technology (think sonar as opposed to IR) or maybe it was the fact that 3/4 of the television's frame was covered in receivers (as opposed to the Wii's tiny "sensor bar"). Don't expect to see this as a PC peripheral...ever. They're aiming for large contracts (like a console manufacturer) and commercial applications only.

Insert generic Star Wars quote here along with a snort laugh.

I'm really, really hoping this will be good. And until we have the game in our hands to decide, expect bajillions of such updates as we get more info.

A few more Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Wii details [gonintendo]

But really, do we need more motion controls right now? I mean, we could certainly use some that work better, but especially if Microsoft is building a separate controller that will only be used for a handful of games, it's doubtful that we'll see anything better than we've already got on other systems.

Microsoft Plans Motion Sensing Controller [via g4tv]

...the way you have to tackle the animation for a character that can mimic your movements is quite intimidating...When I play a game I want to feel like I'm a Jedi, not like I'm some kind of imbecile who just keeps on stabbing stuff in the guts. You're not going to be able to fight with style because you won't know how to put the moves together.

Will we ever get complete control of Star Wars' lighty-up sticks? [gamesradar] [picture]

In a way, Nintendo has succeeded off a form of supersizing. Don't sell the consumer two Wiimotes, just sell them more with one Wiimote. It's a small upsell that can clearly translate to big dollars.

Nintendo's secret best-seller: Wii Play [opposable thumbs]

Amazon [via cheapassgamer]

"The Vet started massaging the dogs belly and it just came flying out of the dog," said Marie Becknell. I knew what it was right away by the color and shape of it. It was my son's video game remote. The dog had swallowed the boy's Nintendo Wii remote controller.

Veterinarian Finds Wii Remote In Family Dog [Fun Tech Talk - Thanks Dennise!]

LucasArts to Unleash the Force on the Wii in Spring 2008

Star Wars™: The Force Unleashed™ Coming to Nintendo's Platform with Exclusive Duel Mode

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - Sept. 18, 2007 - LucasArts today revealed that Star Wars™: The Force Unleashed™ will come to the Wii™ home videogame system from Nintendo next spring, offering owners the unique chance to live out their Jedi fantasies by wielding the Wii Remote™ as a lightsaber while using the Nunchuk™ controller to torment foes with their Force™ powers.

The Force Unleashed casts players as Darth Vader's "Secret Apprentice" and promises to unveil new revelations about the Star Wars galaxy. The game's expansive story is set during the largely unexplored era between Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope. In it, players will assist the iconic villain in his quest to rid the universe of Jedi - and face decisions that could change the course of their destiny.

The Wii version, in development by Krome Studios, will also add an exclusive duel mode in which players can compete head-to-head with their friends to determine the ultimate Jedi Master.

"The Wii is a great platform for The Force Unleashed, because the console's motion-oriented controllers really bring the game to life," said Jim Ward, President of LucasArts. "We've worked hard to make the Wii version of the game unique in order to truly let you unleash the Force."

I feel bad in pointing out that the Wiimote's lack of relative motion sensing is probably making the job a programming nightmare. And if developers don't nail the project, it's tough to predict who will look worse: Nintendo or LucasArts. On a lighter note, we're getting Wii Lightsabers! Hooray!

More Motion-Sensitive Lightsabers Coming to Wii [via maxconsole]

At $60 a pop and the massive PS2 install base, these titles could do very well this Christmas if Wii shortages continue. You know, for the folks who wear jeans from Walmart and believe that 1-ply toilet paper is just as safe as 2.

Wii-style controller to hit PS2 [mcv]

Camy Hero Pack Product Page [Camy International]

"This isn't the kind of technology, or model, that this industry — or Orkin — is used to considering," notes David Lamb, Orkin's vice president of learning and media services. He's working with senior officers in the company to build a business case for such training, and, given the potential savings the company could eventually realize across its 400 branch offices, "there's a very high probability we'll move into this arena."

Stone's other clients include a medical devices firm, a global energy company looking to train power plant employees in a safe environment, and a major logistics company that he's created a driving simulation for using the Wiimote in a plastic steering wheel assembly.

But why the Wiimote, when other motion sensing devices have been around for years?

The advantage of the Wiimote is that it's a "human-centric device," says Eric Klopfer, a professor at MIT. A gyroscopic mouse, by contrast, "maps well onto the computer's interface, but not to the person's. The Wiimote fits the user. ... People know intuitively what to do with it when they pick it up because we use it like devices we are familiar with — bats, rackets, wands, etc."

Hit up the link below for a deeper look at what Brown can do for you. Comments about the sexual applications of the Wiimote in Second Life are sure to follow.

Wii + Second Life = New Training Simulator [Wired]

Overall I think it turned out pretty well. It certainly feels more comfortable in my hands now that the leather is on it (what steering wheel doesn't feel more comfortable with leather on it?)

Joa Ebert and Thibault Imbert are the creators of WiiFlash, a "a project dedicated to the Wiimote and Flash applications" including this one called, Training Sculpture. Although their how-to is a pretty good tutorial on how to do some of their projects in the comfort of your home, some kind of description on what these projects actually are would be helpful to say the least. For most people, dancing around in their living room in a leotard is probably already the norm, but how do they would they know for certain if they were actually creating art. Doesn't mean I won't try this experiment. I'm just saying tall socks are as far as I am willing to go. Kim Phu

Training Sculpture [WiiFlash.org]

Commenter Narsil posed the question recently "What the hell does Full Metal Jacket have to do with the Wii?" Oddly enough, this clip, via Daring Fireball, answers that question. Hilarious! And disturbing. Michael McWhertor

Executive producer Harvey Elliott told GameSpot:

Instead of pressing buttons to fire off specific spells, we use each console's unique controls... If you want to use 'depulso' to push an object away from you, you press the right analogue stick forward on the 360 and PS2, you push the Sixaxis controller away from you on the PS3, and, of course, you flick your 'wand' away from you on the Wii.

Right now, I'm imagining what that scene from Forrest Gump when father and son start leaning to the side simultaneously would look like if it were two grown people and swearing. Kim Phu

Harry Potter Gestures for PS3 and Wii [Pro-G]

The Wall Street Journal has an interesting article up on Wiimotes and what "hackers" are doing to expand the usefulness of the things beyond, well, playing games. It's a nice (short) article, talking with everyone from a DJ who uses his Wiimote to splice tracks to a software engineer who uses his to control his Roomba. But for the record, Nintendo doesn't approve:

Nintendo says it is surprised by efforts to reprogram the Wii-mote and discourages the practice. "The Wii Remote was created to play on the Wii system only," says Anka Dolecki, spokeswoman for Nintendo.

So what are you doing with yours? Maggie Greene

Magic Wand: How Hackers Make Use Of Their Wii-motes [via the WSJ]

In a lot of ways, "The Clapper", was a relatively good idea. At least you could clearly see how the inventor saw a common inconvenience that affected most of the public and that set out to fix said problem. This though. I don't have a problem using keys. They fit into my pockets and I can accessorize them with funny little keychains. If I lose the things, I usually just have to call a friend or shimmy myself through an open window. It's no big deal. But under no circumstance I have ever lost the ability to play video games because of a set of misplaced of keys.

And of course, a key has never cost me $40, broken windows and skulls, been out of stock for months in a row and forced me to wear a sporty strap for safety. I do that just because it looks cute. Kim Phu

Wiimote Hacked to Make Opening Doors Look Silly [Engadget]

Unfortunately they are using sponges to fill out the mold due to lack of chocolate, but those sponges could easily be replaced with raspberry cream of some sort. Mmmm. In the end, it's just more proof that everything is better is you fill it with molten chocolate.

Chocolate Wii Controller [flickr - Thanks Tinkergirl!]

Wii Remote Wrist Strap

We hope you are enjoying your Wii console.

Nintendo has recieved some reports that when consumers swing the Wii Remote with the original version of the wrist-strap using excessive force and accidentally let go, the cord connecting the controller to the wrist strap can break. Nintendo has made a new version of the Wii Remote wrist strap available to replace the original one used in early product shipments.

Please call (800) 859-4519 or visit http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/strapreplace.jsp to determine if you need to replace your wrist strap.

Thank you!

Thanks to Jayme for tip and the pics that Ashcraft demanded he take!

Wiimote-Controlled USB Missile Launcher [TechEBlog via Looneygamers - Thanks Yash!]

Come late January your wiimote battery life worries are a thing of the past, thanks to Joytech's forthcoming Wii PowerStation. The product features a base station for convenient wiimote charging and storage, as well as two rechargeable battery packs so you can swap them out on the fly, never having to worry about desperately scrabbling for double-As in mid-Zelda again. It even has little side nunchuck holders. Cute!

It wasn't until I saw this product that I realized what a lazy bastard I can be, just leaving the wiimote/nunchuck combo and spent batteries wherever I am when I stop playing. Retailing for around $30, it's a small price to pay to avoid having the controllers surgically removed from an uncomfortable place (the backseat of a Volkswagen?) once the girlfriend trips over them one too many times. Michael Fahey

Joytech Wii Powerstation [Gameseek.co.uk via Videogamesblogger - Thanks peanutismint!]

Following news that Nintendo is issuing a "corrective action" to replace defective or underpowered Wiimote straps come details on Nintendo's future plans to better inform consumers.

In the following weeks, Nintendo will continue to spread the gospel about Wii Sports related safety. Here's how they'll do it:

• Send electronic messages to Internet-connected Wii systems to highlight key Wii safety points.
• 
  
• Update the Wii operations manual and the manual for Wii Sports with additional wrist strap cautions and specific game advice.
• 
  
• Update on-screen wrist strap advisories to include additional messaging.

Considered, but not put into plan yet, is the program in which Nintendo of America prez Reggie Fils-Aime comes to your house and personally kicks your ass until you get it through your thick skull—proper Wii safety practices, that is, not his giant Frankenstein boots.

My suggestion? Just launch a Safety Channel already, Nintendo. When someone goes into cardiac arrest during an extended Wario Ware Smooth Moves session, you'll thank me. Michael McWhertor

Wii Fatality [Revver - Thanks Ross!]

Wiieally Interesting Way to Play EQ2 [Eq2-Daily Blog]