Mockup of Revolution controller demos

by Christopher Grant { Dec 14th 2005 at 12:45PM }

Remember when, as recently as last week, Nintendo invited games journalists to try out the Revolution controller with some simple gameplay demos and Gamecube titles retrofitted to work with the new system? Remember how they wouldn't let us see any graphics or video footage? Remember how you got so angry you might have said something about the Reggie you later regretted?

Well, now there's a mockup video showing how the Revolution controller might work using gameplay from Super Mario Sunshine, Soul Calibur II, F-Zero, and some simple gameplay demonstrations. So take that Nintendo, fans can take up the slack on their own! Who cares about the graphics? This looks like more fun than a barrel of Diddy Kongs.

[Thanks, pete]

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)

Uwe Boll's Naughty Bits @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

I don't know about the rest of you, but that looks f'ing awesome. I never really thougth about racing games up until now. I don't think the Big N has anything to worry about, this thing will sell like crazy, especially to the Japanese...

yay @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

*Yawn*

student @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Agreed, F-zero looked really neat. I can see myself turning with the controller as I go. These looked pretty neat, I can't wait to see what Nintendo has in store.

Shenzou @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Sweet.. is it just m me or does the video seem to stop half-way through F-Zero GX? Is there a longer version somewhere?

SuicideNinja @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Just like I thought it would be. I am all about making controls more intricate and fun. I just hope people realize they can still sit back on the couch and utilize these functions. I really want to see how it fares via Metroid Prime.

And yup, I'm still more interested in the Revolution than the PS3. The 360 has excellent XBL features and a great controller, the Revo will have a new way to control gaming, and possibly new genres. The PS3 will have ugly looks, non-unified online gaming, and a crappy controller. If only Sony could actually output results equal to their Mick Jagger sized mouth.

Jon @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

*yawn*
That was cool. Don't be a cynical douche. Esp. considering this was DIY.

Jon @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

*yawn*
That was cool. Don't be a cynical douche. Esp. considering this was DIY.

miles @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

god people are so stupid.

look at that video a little closer...

take the soul caliber demo.. do you know how sloppy that would be...to have to aim at peoples arms and legs... with how fast the characters spin and move? it would just be this luck fest of swinging and punching, like rock em sock em robots.

Take the demo of mario... do you have any clue how frustrating a platformer like that would get where you have to stand motionless or take off from a certain spot PRECISELY? ..one little jerk of your entire arm and your guy jumps to far, to short, or gets killed.

Look at the demo of the guy circling those three balls... do you realize how close to impossible that would be to be that precise??

try this..take a laser pointer, and point it at your tv, try circling things, try moving it about. THATS with an actual laser... which is far more precise then the revolution remote will be. Watch how that thing shakes and stutters, watch how it slides around as you try to make shapes.

This thing is so doomed. The concept is great, to bad there is NO WAY its going to work...maybe a few first party games here and there that are cool and gimmicky, but those will be few and far between.

what a disaster this is going to be. I wished they would have put the time and energy into a next gen gameboy, thats where they make there money anyways...portables.

C. Grant @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

do you know how sloppy, do you have any clue how frustrating, do you realize how close...

I gather you must have gotten some hands on time with the unit, otherwise you wouldn't have any idea.

gameclu @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

I think it's great that people are able to entirely dismiss the controller based on a fan made concept video. I would hate for someone to accidentally watch this simple video and let their imaginations run with it.

windywings @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

miles is like most crybabies when you take the training wheels off their bike.

It sounds to me like he is simply afraid games might be challenging again and not simply, savefests where pretty much anybody can beat it.

If nintendo goes old school with this controller and makes some games that are actually hard or require some practice, I'm all for it. Video games are supposed to require little to play, but they should require skill to beat.

Bring it on nintendo!

Dont worry about morons like Miles.

rockinrobbie @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

OK, I'm loving the idea for the F-Zero and I can truly think now that a good FPS could be available for this system. My question tho, is why *couldm't* the PS3 or XBOX360 create a similar system/controller?

TOM @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Great comment windywings. Nowerdays, the easiest to play, difficulty wize, games have themost complicated controls. And look at Mega Man. Easy to lear and, still people consider it one of the hardest games ever.

mike @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

what a disaster this is going to be. I wished they would have put the time and energy into a next gen gameboy, thats where they make there money anyways...portables.

--

you know those are gamecube games right? not Rev games.. which will be designed and tested for play with.. that controller.

got it.

Mullinator @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Awwww poor miles, no hand eye coordination and is afraid he won't be able to compete on a future platform.

Besides, this is a fan made mock up. Not an official Nintendo tech demo. Also, unless you have noticed everyone who has tried it so far from developers to reporters have said it was amazing, easy, and accurate to use.

Sam @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Crap, i can't see it, it says that the google video thing isn't avaidable in my country, france, anyone know how i can see the demo?

funkonaut @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Sam, http://files.filefront.com/The_Rev_lowmv/;4457504;;/fileinfo.html

PvpMan22 @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Seems like a pretty creative vid, just waiting for it to come out though!!!
Anyway some of those examples hopefully will help some people (that are not like miles) visualize the mechanics a little better.
One check next to the revolution controller on my anticipation list.

Tom B. @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

I believe a controller with multiple sensors could actually be more accurate than a handheld laser pointer. The Rev. can undoubtedly compensate for the random motion of your hands; it wouldn't be that hard. And as other commentators have mentioned, people who've tried it say it's great.

I'm sure it'll control Mario games fine, although maybe not the way the video shows. Didn't Miyamoto design it to be perfect for Mario 128?

Matthew @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Regardless of whether or not Nintendo showed of their official tech demos to the public, it has people talking, hence this article. Of course, I hate to say it, but I don't think Miles knows what he's talking about. Has he even read up on the official "hands-on impressions." I'm definitely excited for the Revolution.

CuddleFish @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

I totally agree with you Miles except where you say it's doomed. The rev controller will suck for FPS games yet everyone thinks it's the second coming. I'm sure the slow paced Metroid with aim assist will work fine but you won't see the likes of a Counterstrike or Halo type FPS work well with the wand. KBAM works so well on PC because the mouse rests on a flat stable surface. Waiting for someone to pop his head out from behind a crate for a split second so you can snipe him won't work with the wand. You can't pinpoint and hold your reticule in one exact spot for very long. Aiming reticules will be all over the place on rev even resting your wrist on your knee. People also forget that Nintendo is trying to lure in the non-gamers so games will not be "hard or require practice". They will be easy, pick up and play, simple games. You won't see Rainbow Six, Splinter Cell etc played with that controller even if they make it to Rev. And Nin's online for Rev will be exactly like the DS. Your friends list will be numbers and voice will not be supported. Nin can't have the kiddies hearing all your potty mouths. With all that said I still look forward to using the new controller in arcade type party games and I look forward to picking up a rev to complement my 360.

existonfile @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Watching the F-zero demo got me thinking how this controller practically BEGS to be used as a flight stick. Just flip it upside down and hold it straight up so that "a" and "b" are under one thumb, then grab the other end and wrap your index finger around the trigger. Here's to hoping they make a new Rogue Squadron (with an online enabled multiplayer lightsaber duel mode as well, duh!).

Bo @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Everyone repeat with me: Carpal tunnel syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carpel_tunnel_syndrome

Yes I'm serious about this. The controller will cause a lot of problems especially for videogames since people tend to play longer than a few hours. On the upside, some will develop stronger wrists.

cosmic @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

If you look at the FPS problems from a design standpoint accuracy issues are a problem that can be improved by making a expansion peripherel that connects the controller to a gun mount. Much like the mockup that was shown on IGN months ago. Using two hands for steadiness and add a reliable scope for accuracy and bam, you've got realistic gaming experience.

I imagine that homemade extensions to the controller will become the new fad. If you can truely swing a controller like a sword. You'll see avid fans tape their controller to a sturdy stick to actually make a sword.

I wonder if you'll be able to use it like a long stick like Donetello.

Sam @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Thanks funkonaut, this is looking quite awsome, i can't wait. I am kind of worried about that whole thing miles talked about,but i'm sure nintendo's got that figured out. The controler will be a great way to get none gamers into gaming and at the same time, there could be some very challenging games.

Mullinator @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Actually Bo the remote is a much better form of control than standard controllers for preventing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Reasons for carpal tunnel syndrome = repetitive stress.

Revolution controller actually eliminates this problem since you are moving the wrists around a lot more instead of putting strain on them.

Leto @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

This thing is going to fail as bad as Nintendo's Virtual Boy...

Mullinator @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

The PS3 is going to fail as bad as Nintendo's Virtual Boy...

See anyone can make stupid claims in the hopes other gullible morons will think "maybe he is right".

Buddha @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Wow, CuddleFish and Miles are so wrapped up in whether or not they can snipe some 10 year old from across the map that they forgot the basics of a fun game... It has to be challenging! If my crosshair is shaking onscreen, can you honestly tell me that this is a bad thing? When I play Resident Evil, Doom, or Halo in the intense parts, my crosshair is perfectly still. What the junk is that!!! That takes away from the gameplay, if i think theres a demon or an alien around the corner, i've got to focus and calm myself so that i can accurately shoot whatever it is. Thats intense! makes your blood flow faster because your mood is translated directly into the game. Oh, and remember those losers sniping everybody from across the level? Their going to have to rely on a little bit more than their battle hardened calmness and perfect aiming, this time it will take a little bit more than pulling a trigger to kill everyone and declare themselves champions.

portnoy @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Cuddlefish,

You are a silly brained fool.

I think every point you made is flawed.

Youre like the whiner miles because you dont want games to get challening.

"Waiting for someone to pop his head out from behind a crate for a split second so you can snipe him won't work with the wand. "

Good, sniper deuche bags who can't aim on the run need not apply for next gen FPS's.

"You can't pinpoint and hold your reticule in one exact spot for very long."

I forgot, how many times have you used the rev controller? Oh, wait, thats right. Never. Your opinion is meaningless fanboy shart. If you can't at least wait until you see a game to make a statement like this you are clearly biased.

"Aiming reticules will be all over the place on rev even resting your wrist on your knee."

Again, where did you test your BS theory?

"People also forget that Nintendo is trying to lure in the non-gamers so games will not be "hard or require practice". "

No, what people like you forget is that nintendo got famous by luring in people who hadn't played games before by introducing fun games that were easy to pick up and play but difficult to master. Unlike games today, little mastery is required to finish them.

"You won't see Rainbow Six, Splinter Cell etc played with that controller even if they make it to Rev."

I pray to god you are right. These series are tired and have run their course. We want new IPs on revolution. If you want the same ol shit different console, rev wont be for you I think. Thats a bonus in my book.

"And Nin's online for Rev will be exactly like the DS."

Yeah. Free with no little tools cursing in your ear. Sounds like heaven to me.

Thanks. Peace out.

MrP @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Console-specific posts should come with a disclaimer: "If you're planning to post a message about how (insert the developer/console mentioned in the blog post) sucks because you don't have that console or buy from that developer, please refrain from posting. Our more intelligent readers fail to find any amusement whatsoever with reading through ten fanboy replies to get to one useful reply."

existonfile @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

It's funny that someone posted about carpal tunnel. I remember back when NES was so popular that people were saying excessive use of the d-pad was causing bone growths on people's thumbs. I even remember seeing it on the news. Yet here I am today with normal thumbs after almost 2 decades of the d-pad!

Caleb @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

People keep saying, "You haven't played with the Rev so how can you say it sucks you iggit!"

Don't diss a system you haven't played, but even more, please don't defend a system you haven't played.

vidGuy @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

You know, the difficulty-in-aiming issue can be fixed rather easily: have the user press or hold a button to lock or unlock aiming. So when sniping, you could aim then press a button to lock. Or you could hold a button to aim then release to lock.

And don't tell me that is too much work, we already do it for games that require a button hold to raise the gun (Resident Evil, etc).

Tim E @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Give props to the guy who made this, Bider!
http://boards.revolutionreport.com/index.php?showtopic=3044&st=0

OM @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Waiting for someone to pop his head out from behind a crate for a split second so you can snipe him won't work with the wand. You can't pinpoint and hold your reticule in one exact spot for very long. Aiming reticules will be all over the place on rev even resting your wrist on your knee.

You do know that it's impossible to hold a REAL gun steady without a stand right? People seem to get shot all the time so I'm figuring a controller than will probably partially compensate for shaking will do fine.

chicasaw @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

"You do know that it's impossible to hold a REAL gun steady without a stand right? People seem to get shot all the time so I'm figuring a controller than will probably partially compensate for shaking will do fine."

OM, you are right. The person who posted what you quoted is an uptard.

I think its hilarious when you have these kids who wants games to LOOK totally real but then complain if the control scheme gets more realistic. I mean do you want more immersive games or not people? If you do, then certainly you must admit a controller that more closely replicates whatever it is you are controlling is likely to be a good thing.

jopojelly @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

I'm really disappointed with this video...it almost seems like there trying to make it look bad. The RTS demo was cool, an the carthing should be easy enough, but using it for movement and fighting games....not gonna be cool. I doubt any developer would make a game where the controller just makes it harder...THERE NOT STUPID!!! If they can get more precision and usefullness out of the controller, fine, but if not, use the shell thing, and you still have the position thing if you want it...

Shenzou @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Agreed, not to mention the realism effect many recent games has applied to in-game sniper weapons where the crosshair/scope is shaking when aiming and zooming in.

revo4life @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

OM is right. is the controller worse than sniping with the analog stick?No. analgue taskes u 30 seconds 2 get a direct aim by that time ur emermy will be far gone. remember when sniping u cant use auto aim.

Caleb
i understand what you are thinking BUT people are only defending it against those who diss it. You dont want people ruining your entusiasm for this console do you? why cant we all just get along? atleast if you r complaining present it in a question e.g. "wont holding the controller hurt your hand?" then u would get nice replies like "developers who have tried it said it was very comfortable". CAtch my drift

Petey @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Portnoy, you're hoping you won't get Rainbow Six or Splinter Cell but those games sell systems. Bet your hoping there's no EA sports too. Enjoy your Mario Sunshine Suirt pistol FPS cause that's what you're gonna get on the Rev.

Marlor @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

I want to think that this will be a real "revolution" in gaming, but somewhere in the back of my mind, I keep thinking "Power Glove".

tomato @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

except that the power glove was made by mattel. and was big, ugly and clunky.

video seems pretty cool. can't wait to see these actually implemented in a game and to test the controller out for myself. probably my biggest wish for this controller is an RE type game where you control the flashlight/gun with the wand and move with the analog stick. i think that would rock.

revo4life @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

MArlor
I think u r forgetting metroid prime. It got 10/10 for gameplay without this new controller. This new controller will make the gameplay 15/10 and im not exaggerating... and anyways EA is soooooooooo CRAPPPPPP. my favorite EA game has to be freedom fighters on the gamecube its the only game i like and also command and conquer however they ruined generals makin it only work for fast pcs. I HATE THEM. any way developers profits are decreasing so they have to make a change thats IF rev sells well.

vidGuy @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Oh and by the way, after locking on by pressing a button, you could still follow a moving target with the analog stick.

portnoy @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

"Portnoy, you're hoping you won't get Rainbow Six or Splinter Cell but those games sell systems. Bet your hoping there's no EA sports too. Enjoy your Mario Sunshine Suirt pistol FPS cause that's what you're gonna get on the Rev."

Thats funny. You must turn off your brain before you start typing.
Those games sell xbox's and PS3's my friend. Good games, sure, but not a big commodity on the gamecube unfortunately. Thats fine with me. And madden titles have always had weak sales performance on the cube. Maybe because cube owners realize they are all the same and only update every few years.

My question is do you plan to own a 360 or PS3?

If so, then WHY do you want the same games on the Rev? (I doubt its because you think they will be better on the Rev, although they might)

My hope is that each console will bring its own new and interesting IPs. Otherwise why even make 3 different consoles? What the hell good is Halo3 to xbox360 if you can get it on a PS3 and Rev?

I mean if the game library is the same on all 3 consoles, whats the point?

Dont you get it? Nintendo doesn't WANT your ports. They want games that can't be found on other systems. I cheer this idea. Ports just confuse things anyway. Which system do you buy it on? Which one was it truly designed for? Bla bla bla. Huge waste of time.

Leave the old fashioned ports to MS and PS3. Let them take last gen games, improve the graphics and then resell them. Thats fine. If REALLY want to play call of duty again, I'll buy an xbox360.

If I want something next gen in terms of gameplay, innovation, and creativity, I'll buy a Rev. (and maybe I'll buy a PS3 just for fun too.)

Hevy @ Dec 18th 2005 9:13PM

Here's how'd I'd like to see Nintendo implement support for the new controller:

1. Games that have traditionally been played with a gamepad (e.g., FPS, racing games, etc.) can now be played either with the gamepad or the wand, at the player's choice. If you hate the wand for racing games, no one will make you play it that way. But if you want to play the game with the new controller, you can.

2. For every game that uses the wand, you can set your own preferences for sensitivity and other such settings. Just like on PC FPS games, which let you set the mouse sensitivity, etc. Developers can ship the game with what they feel are the optimal settings, but then let us adjust them to our own tastes.

3. Nintendo builds into the Revolution's operating system the ability to map the gamepad controls to the wand controller for virtually ANY GAME playable on the system. This means you can map the controls to the wand for GameCube games, like Metroid Prime 1 and 2, and hell, even NES and SNES games if you feel like it.

Yeah, not all games will be conducive to the new controller. But with the right mappings, games you'd never think to use with it might turn out to be really fun. Or at least different, almost like playing a different game. Web sites will pop up where people can post their favorite mappings for specific games so others can try them out (without going through the process of tinkering themselves, unless of course they want to).

Will Ikaruga work well with the new controller? I have no frickin' idea. But I'd love to play around with it and find out for myself. That in itself would be like a game.