Of course, there's no seizure-inducing flashing lights or frantic j-pop, but I'm speaking in a more general sense.
The Spark is a machine akin to those common exercycles you see at gyms, with a virtual reality twist. In tour mode, the
cycle allows you to choose from nine tracks to ride, and Expresso promises more to come. Each track varies in length,
difficulty, and especially locale, all rendered in marginally impressive 3D. I haven't been able to locate any videos
on their site, but each course will also feature NPC cyclists, whom you can compete against or ride beside at your
discretion. A cyclist clad in a yellow jersey will also appear en route, representing your preselected skill
level.
The environments appear to keep you on a preset track, though it does allow for some interaction. By moving the
handlebar, the system allows you to pass your fellow riders, even flinging you off the road if you press on the bars
too hard. Eventually, Expresso hopes to connect all of their bikes via a wireless network, theoretically allowing you
to ride against other cyclists in your gym, or even from gyms across the world. For God's sake, let's hope they don't
include any type of chat program whatsoever. The last thing I need is some n00b from halfway around the world
protesting my mad pedaling skillz.
And this is only the first of several exercising/video gaming hybrids that Expresso hopes to create. But frankly,
aside from walking, how many strenous activities lend themselves to virtual reenactment? Virtual stairclimbing? I can
see it now: "Stair-Stepper 64! All the heart-pounding, teeth-clenching excitement of walking up stairs!!" Seriously,
just imagine some mods for this thing. Passing nothing, break out the flamethrower.
[via CBS News]
