Joystiq

Nyko shows off PS Vita accessories at CES 2012

David Hinkle — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST

Nyko's showcasing its latest line of accessories at this year's Consumer Electronics Show, and we're sad to report nothing there is as insane as the Nyko Zoom Case.

The most exciting item at first glance is the Power Grip for PS Vita, pictured above. It promises to triple battery life for Sony's upcoming handheld -- and considering what Nyko did for 3DS battery life, we're willing to look past the ugly appendages. Other Vita accessories include a speaker stand and an all-in-one case, charger and USB cable combo.

In addition to that, there's a fanny pack to hold games (why?) and a battery pack for the Kindle Fire. Images of each item can be found in our gallery below; a price list is available past the jump.

Gallery: Nyko Accessories (CES 2012)

Continue reading Nyko shows off PS Vita accessories at CES 2012

Nyko shows off PS Vita accessories at CES 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko Zoom for Kinect available now [update]

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:30:00 EST

The Nyko Zoom is a lens attachment for the Xbox 360 Kinect that simply, snugly connects over the front of the device. The $30 peripheral, which is available now, makes it so that players can stand about 40 percent closer to the Kinect. In other words, it allowed those with cramped, furnished living spaces, like most of the Joystiq team, to get their Kinect on.

If you don't need the Zoom for space-saving purposes, don't bother getting it. It won't help if you've already got ample area. It basically works by squishing and widening the playing field so, where a single-player game used to work optimally at about seven feet (nine feet for two players), it now functions well at four feet (six feet for two players). The playing field now ends at around eight feet with the Zoom, instead of ten feet without.

Games we tested (Dance Central, Your Shape and Kinect Adventures) worked as intended with the lens on. An awkward side-effect of the lens is that it does create what appears like dead space around the perimeter of your feedback screen (viewable on the dashboard and in some games), but if your body moves into those spaces it will still be recognized. The Zoom also creates slight distortions in the player's silhouette; again, the system still recognizes bodies and creates the correct vector skeleton of the player, it's more an issue of just noticing that it "doesn't look right," instead of it actually affecting games.

If you live in cramped quarters and the Nyko Zoom will let you properly play Kinect (or just avoid moving the furniture around to do so), the attachment is worth the investment.

Update: Although the lens did work for us with the games we tested, we are receiving and reading feedback that is making us uncomfortable about recommending this product. At this time, we will simply say that the Nyko Zoom is available and results vary.

Continue reading Nyko Zoom for Kinect available now [update]

Nyko Zoom for Kinect available now [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko Zoom potentially delayed one month [update]

Jordan Mallory — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST

Look honey, we know you're anxious to start waving your arms around, but your Kinect might need a little more time to get over its fear of intimacy. We know you were hoping the Nyko Zoom, the close-encounters enabling Kinect lens cover, would bridge the gap between you two. We know you've been looking forward to that August 13 release date with bated breath, but it looks like you're going to have to wait a little longer.

According to Amazon and Gamestop listings for the product, the peripheral-peripheral's launch has been pushed back until September 13. We've reached out to Nyko for confirmation, but at the moment it looks like your tiny dormroom will remain Kinectimals-free for another month. Your Kinect loves you, it really does, it just needs its space right now, you know?

Update: We've heard back from Nyko, and things are exactly as they seem: "Due to overwhelming demand from consumers and retailers we're increasing our initial production run and pushing the launch date back accordingly to ensure that all our partners are adequately supplied on launch day."

[Thanks, Sacra!]

Nyko Zoom potentially delayed one month [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko Zoom blows up your Kinect space on Aug. 23

Ludwig Kietzmann — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST

Whether it's due to an unspoken social fragility, or simply a disdain for your odorous pit stains, the Kinect simply doesn't want you anywhere near its personal space. Most of you don't mind backing off, but even the most spartan living room might not allow for enough distance between bodies and the motion-sensing eye. (In fact, most spartan living rooms see players plummeting into a paved, cylindrical abyss after they take a step back.)

Enter: Nyko Zoom. Launching on August 23 for $30, Nyko's clip-on lens claims to enable Kinect games within 40% less space, essentially fooling the sensor into thinking you're way over there when you're RIGHT HERE. Joystiq's got quite a few cramped gaming caves between its writers, so we'll be testing the Zoom's big talk as soon as we get our hands on some hardware.

It's weird to think that amongst all the silly Kinect bits and bobs (including those that physically bob), we might finally find some use in the one that turns the camera into Mr. Magoo, cosplaying as Sam Fisher.

Nyko Zoom blows up your Kinect space on Aug. 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Seen@E3: Nyko's last Wii Party Station

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:01:00 EST

Nyko has "the last Wii Party Station on Earth" working its booth at E3. Like that band with a few minor hits that you see years later at Six Flags, the party station is a shell of its former glory.

When we first saw the device in 2007, it was gloriously lit in blue, holding sodas and providing chips. Now, after missing its big break, the device is dark, lonely and generally ignored. It's still working, though, holding a couple bottles of water, a few Nyko Wiimotes and two pieces of candy when we saw it. Even the Nyko rep said with some sadness, "It should be glowing and providing us a bounty of chips."

As for what Nyko is actually showing this year, check out the 2011 lineup.

Gallery: Nyko E3 2011 lineup

Seen@E3: Nyko's last Wii Party Station originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko shows off 'Zoom for Kinect' and 'Play Clock for 3DS' at E3

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 04:15:00 EST

Nyko is showing off gadgets and gizmos aplenty at E3 this year - sadly, the Wii Party Station won't be one of them (and still isn't slated for production). The company's E3 2011 lineup does include accessories like the "Zoom for Kinect," a clip-on lens which supposedly allows those with smaller living spaces to use the Kinect, reducing the distance required by "up to 40%."

For 3DS owners, Nyko has the Shock n' Rock cradle, which offers two times the battery life and four powered speakers, along with vibration feedback. The company is also showing off the Game Boost, an accessory that adds an extra hour or two of battery life. There's also the Power Grip, which supposedly adds three times the battery without removing the device's power.

Most extravagantly, there's the Play Clock for 3DS. A combination: charging dock, alarm clock and powered speaker system. There's also a line-in port for connecting your MP3 player of choice. It's actually pretty nifty, depending on what the final price ends up being.

Pricing and release dates are still unconfirmed for all the products, but all of the items should be available in time for the holidays.

Gallery: Nyko E3 2011 lineup

Nyko shows off 'Zoom for Kinect' and 'Play Clock for 3DS' at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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April Fools: Nyko offers 3D glasses for 3DS

JC Fletcher — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST

For those of you who find glasses-free 3D unnatural, Nyko (doesn't actually) have a solution: 3D glasses for use with the 3DS. Featuring "Lens-less is More" technology, the $100 frames accurately bring the 3D movie experience home -- at least the part of the experience that involves wearing giant, stupid glasses.

The April Fools' Day joke on the Nyko website acted as a lead-in for a Facebook contest, in which fans were asked to send in pictures of their own useless 3D glasses. The prize was a free Charge Base/Power Pak+ package -- a product which, unlike these glasses, has been proven by a reliable authority to have a function.

[Thanks, Mike]

April Fools: Nyko offers 3D glasses for 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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3DS Power Pak + review: a battery of tests

JC Fletcher — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST

Nyko was first out of the gate with a product designed to ameliorate the 3DS's infamous battery life issue. The Power Pak + is a replacement battery that Nyko claims will double the runtime of the 3D handheld.

Nyko sent Joystiq one of the packs, along with the optional Charge Base cradle (the Power Pak + uses the normal AC adapter, but is incompatible with the dock that ships with the 3DS) and I decided to put that claim to the test, and evaluate the device in a non-battery-life capacity as well.

Gallery: Nyko Power Pak + (3DS)

Continue reading 3DS Power Pak + review: a battery of tests

3DS Power Pak + review: a battery of tests originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko unveils accessories to extend 3DS battery life

JC Fletcher — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST

One of the biggest shortfalls of the Nintendo 3DS's feature set is its brief battery life, which Nintendo estimates to be as short as three hours. Where we see a disappointing feature, accessory manufacturer Nyko sees an opportunity.

The company has revealed the $20 Power Pak +, a battery pack that clips to the back of the 3DS and "doubles" the battery life of the unit. It'll be out on launch day. One week later, Nyko will ship the $30 Charge Base, a charging dock for the Power Pak + (one of which is included with the package), that replaces the existing 3DS charging cradle.

As a bonus, the Power Pak + subtly enhances the 3D-ness of the 3DS -- not by doing anything to the screens, but by making the unit take up more 3D space.

Gallery: Nyko 3DS Power Pak + and Charge Base

Continue reading Nyko unveils accessories to extend 3DS battery life

Nyko unveils accessories to extend 3DS battery life originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Walmart loses its mind, offers third-party Wii Remote and game for $35

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST

Walmart's apparently spread its retail dominance over so much of the country that it no longer has a need for your usual economic motivators like ... um, profit. The store is offering shoppers a $35 bundle which includes either a Nyko-brand Wii Remote or a Power A Wii Pro Pack (which we demoed earlier this year), and their choice of one out of a list of pre-selected games. At that price, you'd expect the bundled games to be shovelware, but the inclusion of Epic Mickey, New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Super Mario Galaxy 2 might convince you otherwise.

We don't know how long this deal will be available, but considering you can purchase a Wii Remote, Nunchuk and a game for less than the standard retail price of a Wii game by its lonesome, we're going to wager that it won't be available for very long at all.

Walmart loses its mind, offers third-party Wii Remote and game for $35 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko's 'silky' PS3 Raven controller comes in regular and identity-crisis versions

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Nyko's Raven controllers for the PlayStation 3 look good and feel, well, the company uses the term "silky," but we honestly can't think of better description than "plastic velvet." Don't feel weird about rubbing it against your cheek to really experience the odd softness -- we did. The Raven will come in a regular PS3 configuration and an "alternate" version (pictured) -- which is an Xbox 360-style configuration. Both versions are designed with concave triggers and an actual d-pad.

The controllers are priced at $35 and will be available later this summer. They connect wirelessly using a USB dongle. And now comes the real treat: check out the promotional video for the Raven after the break.

Continue reading Nyko's 'silky' PS3 Raven controller comes in regular and identity-crisis versions

Nyko's 'silky' PS3 Raven controller comes in regular and identity-crisis versions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko's Wii Party Station still not being manufactured

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Nyko's Wii Party Station is a thing of E3 legend. First seen at E3 Santa Monica 2007, we always anticipate this will be the year we see it again. Sadly, it was not in attendance. With Move on the horizon, we asked Nyko if it was planning to revisit the Wii Party Station or even a Move Party Station.

"We can always revisit that. At the time it was too expensive," a Nyko representative told us. He explained that the price of oil, which you need to make the plastic-intensive product, was too expensive at the time and it just didn't make cost sense. He informed us that the electronics in the unit, which included four displays, LED lighting around a chip tray and a hand drying fan cost less than the plastic.

Keep hope alive, folks. Perhaps, one day, Nyko will find it in its heart to deliver upon us this most excellently ridiculous over-the-top frat boy dorm item.

Gallery: Wii Party Station

Nyko's Wii Party Station still not being manufactured originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko's new colored Wands available at selected retailers

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:15:00 EST

Peripheral manufacturer Nyko is adding several new colors to its line of Wand controllers. Each color will be available at a specific retailer, so if you're looking for a red Wand, but have never even heard of a Fry's, try purchasing it online. The Wand colors and selected retailers are as follows:

Gamestop: Green and Orange
Walmart.com: Yellow
Fry's: Red
Meijer Supercenters: Grey

The Wands are priced at about $30. The absolutely not recommended "paint it yourself" method will run you under $20 in materials.

Nyko's new colored Wands available at selected retailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko reveals Wii Wand with built-in MotionPlus, more at CES

JC Fletcher — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:25:00 EST

Last year at CES, Nyko unveiled the Wand, its take on Nintendo's Wiimote. This year, the peripheral maker's big item is ... abracadabra ... the Wand -- with one exciting addition! The $40 Wand+ is a single, self-contained unit that includes MotionPlus compatibility. The device still supports the crazy Trans-Port stuff, like the original Wand does, which means that Wiimote buttons can be automatically remapped to buttons on other Nyko accessories, including its gun controller.

Nyko has also introduced two variants of its cookie-inspiring Charge Base IC remote charger: a version of the original in black and a new one that can accommodate four Wiimotes.

For PS3, the company has designed a new version of its Intercooler made to bulk up Sony's Slim model, and the Media Hub Slim, a combination of a tiny remote control and a USB hub.

The Wand and Charge Base Quad IC are due in stores this March. The Intercooler will be available next month for $19.99, and the Media Hub Slim will retail for $19.99 when it's released in April.

Gallery: Nyko CES 2010 lineup

Nyko reveals Wii Wand with built-in MotionPlus, more at CES originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Perihperal Vision: Nyko Charge Base IC Hands-on/Butter Cookie Tutorial

Justin McElroy — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:45:00 EST

Peripheral Vision is the name of our ongoing sporadic journey into the wonderful, oft-terrifying world of third-party peripherals. Think of it as neither preview or review but rather a ... meditation on the curious object in question. Enjoy.

When the holidays roll around, the gamers who buy everything they want throughout the year might find themselves stymied asked for a wish list. Today, we put the Nyko Charge Base IC through its paces, and it looks like a great way to pad your list to Santa. The Wiimote charger uses induction, which not only alleviates the need to plug everything in, but -- as you'll see in the above video -- also looks really slick.

Also, to help justify this video's existence, we teach you how to make butter cookies.

Perihperal Vision: Nyko Charge Base IC Hands-on/Butter Cookie Tutorial originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko Zoom Case for DSi unleashed upon the world

James Ransom-Wiley — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:00:00 EST

Click for 2x ZOOM!

The last of Nyko's Big Three from E3 has hit the marketplace, and it's a doozy. The "Zoom Case" is, uh, well, it's a protective case for the DSi with, yep -- that's a gigantic camera lens attached to it. And would you look at that? Nyko saved up enough for a real-life model. She really helps to sell the image of a social networking enthusiast. Don't you think?

No, seriously, the Zoom Case "improves upon one of the landmark features of the DSi, enabling gamers to take higher quality images, which is perfect for the growing suite of social networking capabilities available on the platform," says Nyko marketing director Chris Arbogast.

Ohhh ... that explains it!

Gallery: Nyko Zoom Case (DSi)

Nyko Zoom Case for DSi unleashed upon the world originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko's 'Wand' controller easier to look at in different colors

JC Fletcher — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST

Despite the interesting "Trans-Port" technology and the lower price, we'd have to say that the defining characteristic of the Nyko Wand is its ugliness. The four new colors for the device, in our opinion, help ameliorate that ugly factor. It could be because the red and blue buttons are gone in favor of a more monochrome look, or it could be because it's slightly harder to compare these to the stock Wiimote. These four color options will be available in North America and Europe this holiday season. They have already launched in Japan, along with many other colors.

Nyko also announced the Charge Base IC, an induction charging dock that uses magnets to hold controllers in place, and also features a USB port for charging other items.

Gallery: Nyko Wand (Wii) new colors

Nyko's 'Wand' controller easier to look at in different colors originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko drops price on Wand, ships controller bundles

JC Fletcher — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST

Nyko announced today that its two Wand controller bundles, which include the company's weird-looking Wiimote and extension controllers, have shipped -- a bit late of the original June date, but at least they made it out before spring 2010. The Action Pak includes a Wand and a gun controller, which uses Nyko's "Trans-Port" function to include operable buttons on the gun itself (and not just a lever that hits the B button). The Core Pak includes a Nunchuk-alike with rumble.

The company also announced that it has knocked five bucks off the price of the standalone Wand controller, now offering the device for $29.99. That seems like a boon to Wii owners in a hurry to acquire a full complement of four Wiimotes.

Nyko drops price on Wand, ships controller bundles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko: Project Natal not a threat, but a 'challenge'

Tracey John — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Nintendo Wii, E3, Peripherals

When Microsoft unveiled its controller-free camera technology dubbed Project Natal during E3 last week, you'd think that gaming peripheral makers might start asking President Obama for a bailout.

But not so. At least not for Nyko. The manufacturer of third-party accessories, whose core business is unlicensed Wii products, doesn't see physical controllers going away anytime soon. In fact, Chris Arbogast, Nyko's director of marketing, has a hard time seeing casual gamers letting go of the Wii remote.

"People in the casual market like feeling something physical to keep your hands aligned," he said. "When you grab the Wiimote and swing it, it feels like you're swinging a baseball bat, versus pantomining swinging a bat. I think that if you take all [the controllers] away and you're just pantomiming everything, there may be some disconnect with realism there."

Obviously, working for Nyko, Arbogast has to stay positive. However, if Project Natal does take off, we wondered if the company has a Plan B. Arbogast said it might force Nyko to "think outside the box." "We'll have to think of other ways we can accessorize and augment the players' experience," he said. "Not with a controller anymore, but with other things to add to that camera functionality. It could be a whole new avenue of business that opens up for us because we'll be forced to challenge ourselves."

Luckily for Nyko, Project Natal is probably a long ways off, with analysts saying it won't trump the Wii just yet. Until then, you can enjoy another innovation in camera technology: the Nyko DSi Zoom Case.

Nyko: Project Natal not a threat, but a 'challenge' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Well, Nyko's lost it

Justin McElroy — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:02:00 EST

Guys, Nyko just sent over its line-up for E3 and well, unless they're giving us a little E3 humor (and trust us, we'd appreciate it) the entirety of the company is hopped up on goofballs. More than just out of ideas, Nyko seems to have sacrificed other good ideas on some sort of altar.

The Charge Grip Flex for the PSP we get, it's a grip that charges. But the Type Pad Pro, a keyboard addition for the Nyko Wand? Nutty. And please, let's all just bask in the glow of the Zoom Case, a protective case for the DSi with a 8x zoom built in: You know, for all the serious photography you're doing with the DSi.

See what we mean? Lost it.

Gallery: Nyko E3 2009

Well, Nyko's lost it originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko's Metal Pedal now available, includes splitter for double bass

Richard Mitchell — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 16:39:00 EST

click to enlarge

Are you bored of only using one foot in your music games? Did you decide not to slap down the cash for a Guitar Hero: Metallica pre-order? If you answered yes to both of these question, then this post is for you! Nyko announced today that it has released its Metal Pedal, a replacement bass pedal that's compatible with all Rock Band and Guitar Hero drum kits on all platforms. Sure, the pedal's metal-plated construction should make it attractive to all the leadfoots out there, but there's another addition worth noting. The Metal Pedal comes with a splitter that allows players to hook up two bass pedals to either Rock Band or Guitar Hero drum kits.

A quick note on compatibility: According to Nyko, the Metal Pedal splitter can be used with the standard bass pedal for Rock Band 2 or Guitar Hero drum kits. The splitter functionality does not work with Rock Band 1 drum kits. Keep in mind that this only applies to the splitter, the Metal Pedal by itself is still compatible with all existing Rock Band and Guitar Hero drum kits.

The Metal Pedal is shipping now and will retail for $19.99.

Gallery: Nyko Metal Pedal

Nyko's Metal Pedal now available, includes splitter for double bass originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko reveals price, date, bundles for Wand controller

JC Fletcher — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST

The Wand, Nyko's take on the Wiimote, has a feature unique enough to interest us despite the appearance of the thing (seriously, it wasn't just hit with the ugly stick, it is the ugly stick): its "Trans-Port" allows for extension controllers to have real, digital buttons of their own, instead of having to leave space for the Wiimote buttons or use levers to manually push them. The attachments also use their own rumble motors.

Nyko has just announced the details of the Wand's release, revealing that it will be released on its own in April for $34.99, and in two bundles in June: the "Core Pak" and the "Action Pak."

The $49.99 Action Pak contains one Wand and one Pistol Grip attachment, which has its own Trans-Port connector on the bottom for connection of additional Nyko accessories. It also features a hilarious orange cap, so people don't think the Wiimote is a real gun. The Core Pak includes a "Wired Kama with Rumble," a version of the Nunchuk with separate rumble motors. It will also be available for $49.99.

Between the slightly reduced price and the improved functionality, we're starting to think about going all-Nyko with our Wii controllers. That seems ... wrong, somehow.

Nyko reveals price, date, bundles for Wand controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Revolutionary: 3rd Party Control

Mike Sylvester — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 09:54:00 EST

Filed under: Peripherals, Tech stuff, Controller, Revolutionary

Last week at CES, Nyko surprise announced their first entry into the 3rd party Wiimote market, the Wand. Though it has been beaten to market by a few other Wiimote clones, this may be the first Wii Remote you'll find encroaching on Nintendo's shelf space in your local game shop. We won't begin to speculate why no one else's products can be readily found in brick 'n' mortars, but we'll be grateful to finally have some choice.

So far, this has been an unusual generation for controller-makers on all platforms. Microsoft doesn't license out its wireless technology, so 3rd party gamepads have to connect via USB. Sony's gyrating, vibrating, rechargeable DUALSHOCK 3 controllers may just be too complex for 3rd parties to replicate in full functionality when the userbase is too small to make a profit from. And the 3rd parties have seemed to be satisfied raking in the dough with non-essential add-ons and shells for Nintendo's own brand of controller. It does indeed come as a surprise that Nyko is now bringing out a Wiimote, and an enhanced one at that. Before we've had a chance to review the Wand, let's examine why its introduction has been long overdue.

Continue reading Revolutionary: 3rd Party Control

Revolutionary: 3rd Party Control originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CES 2009: There's yet more from Nyko

Justin McElroy — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:26:00 EST

Filed under: Nintendo Wii

We showed off Nyko's big gun at CES, the Wand, already, but we thought you might like to take a look at their other CES offerings. Above, you can see the first of two new charging peripherals, the Charge Station EX. We know some of you aren't exactly burning through Wii batteries at the moment, but to those proud few, you'll want to consider the EX over the original Charge Station. Besides the same price point ($34.99) and a sleeker design, the EX also includes a progressive indicator to le you keep track of how the charge is going.

In addition to the EX, the company's also showing off the Kama Charger, which, true to its name, charges the company's recently-out-of-legal-limbo wireless nunchuk and one Wiimote. If the concept still manages to elude you, you can check out a picture after the jump. There's still no price, but you'll learn it when both of these devices drop in April of this year.

Continue reading CES 2009: There's yet more from Nyko

CES 2009: There's yet more from Nyko originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CES 2009: Will Nyko's Wand work with MotionPlus?

David Hinkle — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:45:00 EST

Filed under: News, Peripherals, Controller

We'd like to say one way or another, but when Joystiq stopped by Nyko's booth at CES yesterday to try out the Wiimote alternative, the rep couldn't commit. Nyko hopes the Wand will be compatible, but they're not ready to say one way or the other.

On top of that, Joystiq offered up some general observations while testing out the Wand at Nyko's booth. You can check out the hands-on piece right here.

CES 2009: Will Nyko's Wand work with MotionPlus? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CES 2009: Hands-on with Nyko's replacement Wiimote, The Wand

Justin McElroy — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:14:00 EST

Filed under: Nintendo Wii, CES, Peripherals

It's common knowledge that the Wii's third-party games generally pale in comparison to Nintendo's first-party efforts. But it seems as though that same observation will no longer be true about the system's controllers when Nyko rolls out its Wiimote replacement, The Wand, in April or May of this year. We took the controller for a spin (and a twist and a wave) earlier today at the company's CES booth.

Continue reading CES 2009: Hands-on with Nyko's replacement Wiimote, The Wand

CES 2009: Hands-on with Nyko's replacement Wiimote, The Wand originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CES 2009: Nyko's Wiimote imitator is lawsuit-proof

JC Fletcher — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST

Filed under: News, Peripherals

It's genius, really -- Nintendo sued Nyko for making the Kama Wireless Nunchuck too similar in design to Nintendo's own. But there is no way Nintendo would ever even suggest that Nyko's "Wand" looks at all like the Wiimote, out of respect for the Wiimote. Nyko has replaced the clean lines and muted color scheme of the Wiimote with an odd-shaped body, weird, jagged D-pad, and brightly-colored, square buttons.

In addition to the garishness feature, the Wand has one rather cool ability: when connected to compatible extensions, Wiimote functions can be transferred to the extension. For example, their pistol grip for the Wand rumbles and has a real B button on the trigger, rather than a mechanical lever that pushes the Wiimote's B button -- not to mention that there's an A button on the back.

They also introduced the Charge Station EX, a revision of the popular Charge Station that adds battery level indicators, and a Kama Charge Kit that includes a rechargeable Kama Wireless Nunchuck and a rechargeable battery pack for the Wiimote. Pictures of all of these new accessories are in our gallery! All are expected to be in US stores this April.

[Via press release]

CES 2009: Nyko's Wiimote imitator is lawsuit-proof originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nintendo and Nyko settle Nunchuk dispute peacefully

JC Fletcher — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:35:00 EST

Filed under: News

Nintendo and Nyko have finally come to an agreement over the Kama Wireless Nunchuck. Nintendo filed suit against the peripherals manufacturer back in June, claiming that the Kama imitated Nintendo's own Nunchuk too closely in form and shape.

As part of the settlement agreement, Nyko will be allowed to continue selling the Kama, but in a redesigned form. Even before this announcement, Nyko changed the shape of the Kama to this weird ridged thing. Nyko will show a wired Kama controller and Wing Classic Controller at the 2009 CES.

"We are pleased to have resolved this dispute," NOA's Reggie Fils-Aime said in the very short press release announcing the settlement. "The Nunchuk and Wii brands are familiar to consumers worldwide, and Nintendo is dedicated to vigorous defense of those brands."

Nintendo and Nyko settle Nunchuk dispute peacefully originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nintendo settles lawsuit over Nyko's Kama

Justin McElroy — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:20:00 EST

Filed under: Nintendo Wii

After what we imagine was a fairly one-sided legal battle (considering one of the parties has enough cash to resurrect Clarence Darrow), Nintendo has settled its lawsuit with Nyko over the wireless Kama nunchuk controller. No further details were provided, except to say Nyko would be allowed to continue to sell "a redesigned version" of the Kama.

When asked why the suit was dropped, Nintendo spokesman Mario Mario said, "Well, we just didn't know where we were going to put any more money. ... I'm not joking. Look at my giant belly. I'm actually slim now, but the company makes me carry about a hundred grand in rolled-up 20s in my overalls. It's perverse."

Nintendo settles lawsuit over Nyko's Kama originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko's 'Metal Pedal' for RB and GHWT takes licking, keeps kicking

Richard Mitchell — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 15:45:00 EST

Filed under: Rock Band 2, Guitar Hero World Tour

click to enlarge

Have you be cursed with the world's heaviest feet? Do you leave footprints in concrete? Do you go through Rock Band or Guitar Hero bass pedals like tissue paper? If you answered yes to the third question, Nyko has your solution, the Metal Pedal. The pedal is compatible with Guitar Hero: World Tour as well as both the original Rock Band and Rock Band 2 and is metal plated to stand up to your torturous kicking. Unfortunately, the Metal Pedal isn't hitting stores until January 2009, so you'll have to wait a bit before you can fork over the $20 price tag. Of course, as Joystiq notes, you could always try the DIY alternative, the Pedal Metal.

Now, if you answered yes to the first two questions, well, you're on the wrong website. Sorry.

[Via Joystiq]

Gallery: Nyko Metal Pedal

Nyko's 'Metal Pedal' for RB and GHWT takes licking, keeps kicking originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko's $20 'Metal Pedal' helps RB2 and GHWT get the ped out

Christopher Grant — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 09:23:00 EST

Filed under: Peripherals

click to enlarge

If that incurable case of lead foot has led to more speeding tickets and broken Rock Band (and now, Guitar Hero World Tour) pedals than you care to admit, it may be time to consider a change. Not anything surgical - you're perfect just the way you are - but rather a quick $20 band-aid over the larger issue. Introducing the Metal Pedal, a metal pedal that's compatible "with all standard drum controllers for Rock Band 1 and 2 and Guitar Hero: World Tour on all platforms." Unfortunately, if you're in need of just such a fix, you're ess oh ell until January. Or, you could opt for the DIY eBay alternative, the Pedal Metal. Where do they come up with these names?

Gallery: Nyko Metal Pedal

Nyko's $20 'Metal Pedal' helps RB2 and GHWT get the ped out originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko ups the ante, introduces the Quad charger

David Hinkle — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: News, Peripherals

Click image for a closer look at the Quad Charger

Nyko is doubling the effectiveness of their previous charging dock, adding two more slots and two more NiMH rechargeable battery packs to the mix. Dubbed the Nyko Quad Charger, the new charging station will be available in North America next month, just in time for the holidays, and will cost you $49.99.

Hit up our gallery below for a closer look at the docking station.

Gallery: Nyko Quad Charger

We've spent some time with other Nyko gadgetry before. Just recently, we put the Wing wireless controller through its paces, as well as the Kama Wireless Nunchuck and the Perfect Shot. Don't forget about their Frontman guitar, either. And, please, take a minute to remember the dearly de-partied Party Station.

Nyko ups the ante, introduces the Quad charger originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wii Fanboy hands-on with the Nyko Wing controller

David Hinkle — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:27:00 EST

Filed under: Reviews, Peripherals

Nyko's been manufacturing peripherals for awhile now. We've spent time with the Kama wireless Nunchuk, their wireless Nunchuk adapter and even the Perfect Shot. Now their latest peripheral, the Wing, attempts to best Nintendo's Classic Controller through wireless technology. Does it succeed? Read on and find out!

Continue reading Wii Fanboy hands-on with the Nyko Wing controller

Wii Fanboy hands-on with the Nyko Wing controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Perfect Shot at the perfect price

JC Fletcher — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:45:00 EST

Filed under: News

Nyko's Perfect Shot caused a minor sensation when it came out, by being much more gun-like than, and basically superior to, Nintendo's own Zapper. It was even hard to find for a while. The situation seems to have gotten a lot better in terms of availability, though they might sell out again after this. GameStop has reduced the price of Nyko's handgun-shaped Wii Remote shell to just ten dollars.

Other price reductions that may interest you: Koei's ambitious RPG Opoona for $30, the first Rock Band bundle for $140, and Dewy's Adventure used for $13. We'll also point out Target Terror for $20 here if only because you could actually use the Perfect Shot with it.

Perfect Shot at the perfect price originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Revolutionary: Gun Sights

Mike Sylvester — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Mods, Peripherals, Tech stuff, Controller, Video, Features, Revolutionary

Zombies. It seems like you can't stroll through a secluded eastern European village, tour a bioengineering facility, or attend a Kenny G concert without coming into contact with their kind. "Brains" this and "moan" that is all you ever hear from them, but chances are you've smelled them long before they come into earshot. I, for one, am sick of 'em and if you feel as strongly as I do, I urge you to take up arms.

It's amusing to take them apart piece by piece, but as they shamble ever closer, you'll ultimately have to spread a little gray matter and put them to bed for a final dirt nap. At times like that, you'll need to know that you can rely on your sidearm to do the job. Zombie killin' is no turkey shoot, so a blunderbuss ain't gonna cut it. In this week's Revolutionary, we'll be testing out how straight a shooter the Wii Remote can be.

Continue reading Revolutionary: Gun Sights

Revolutionary: Gun Sights originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko Media Hub works as expected

Andrew Yoon — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:45:00 EST

Filed under: Peripherals

This is quite possibly the least surprising hardware review we've ever done. The Nyko Media Hub, available for about $20 at retailers, does exactly what it says it will do: provide additional USB ports on the PS3. This is perfect for those with recent PS3 configurations, which only feature 2 (as opposed to 4) USB ports. It may not be a big deal for many, but those that play games that require a lot of wireless peripherals, such as Rock Band or Guitar Hero may find themselves short on ports.

It shouldn't be surprising that the device works instantly. There's no indicator light to show that it's working: you just plug it in and voila. The included memory card reader is a nice plus.

The small design of the Media Hub makes it so that it doesn't stand out too much on your system. However, $20 for two additional USB ports does seem a bit pricey. This is certainly a limited appeal product, one you wouldn't be rushing out to buy. If you do decide to pick one up, at least you can be confident knowing it will work exactly as you think it will.

Nyko Media Hub works as expected originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Price rollback on Frontman guitars

JC Fletcher — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:21:00 EST

Filed under: News, Peripherals, Sales

If, for some reason, you suddenly find yourself both in need of an extra Wii Guitar Hero controller and a little light on cash -- no idea what could put so many people in such a state at this particular time -- you may be interested in today's Amazon Deal of the Day.

For $25.98 (just enough to qualify for free shipping!), the retailer is offering the Nyko Frontman guitar controller in either white or yellow. Both include interchangeable pickguards for a bit of customization. Of course, this guitar was originally designed for Guitar Hero III, and consequently does not feature the freaky touch pad business that the newer World Tour guitars do. But as a second guitar (or a bass) it should be fine.

Price rollback on Frontman guitars originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Revolutionary: The Perfect Controller, part 1

Mike Sylvester — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 21:15:00 EST

Filed under: How-tos, Mods, Peripherals, Tech stuff, Controller, Video, Homebrew, Features, Revolutionary

How many times in your history as a gamer have you felt that your console's controller couldn't be any better? Every time I've gotten my hands on a new game controller, there's been something I wished could be different. The NES controller could have been rounder. The SNES controller could have used some more face buttons for Street Fighter. The N64 controller needed speedier room service.

The Wii controller is built with expansion, flexibility, and upgrades in mind, and with the addition of a third party accessory, I've been able to mate the Wiimote with the Classic Controller to form a Voltronic gestalt of a controller that should be capable of great things. But is it perfect?

Continue reading Revolutionary: The Perfect Controller, part 1

Revolutionary: The Perfect Controller, part 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Sep 2008 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wii Warm Up: Wing of Freedom

JC Fletcher — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Wii Warm Up

The Nyko Wing solves the one seeming design flaw of the normal Classic Controller -- that short length of cord. Of course, the tradeoff is that you now have AAA batteries to contend with. And also that the controller looks kind of janky (that would be more of a concern if it looked uncomfortable-janky instead of just regular janky).

Is the wirelessness worth the battery thing and the slightly less elegant presentation? Have you been waiting for a wireless Classic Controller solution? Have you ever wanted to be, like, three feet away from your Wiimote?

Wii Warm Up: Wing of Freedom originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nyko unveils a strange concept: a wireless Classic Controller

JC Fletcher — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:20:00 EST

Filed under: News, Peripherals

Nyko's Wing is the first truly wireless Classic Controller alternative (that isn't actually a GameCube controller): instead of a short cord, it communicates with the Wiimote via a wireless adapter. Unfortunately, it also looks about as comfortable to use as the Turbo Touch 360. The patriotic-looking Wing runs on two AAA batteries, and can even recharge them while playing via a USB cable. Nyko has yet to release any price or release date for this controller.

What's so weird about a wireless Classic? It may not connect to the Wiimote with a wire, but it's still connected. You still have to have the Wiimote sitting next to you (which isn't really a problem). The controller communicates wirelessly with the Wiimote, and then the Wiimote communicates with the Wii. It's like a relay for your button presses. We want one like GameCyte's preview copy.

Nyko unveils a strange concept: a wireless Classic Controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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