Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Testing Kinect in Mass Effect 3 (plus, demo coming February 14) [update: more demo details]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/testing-kinect-in-mass-effect-3-plus-demo-coming-february-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/testing-kinect-in-mass-effect-3-plus-demo-coming-february-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/testing-kinect-in-mass-effect-3-plus-demo-coming-february-14/#comments "James, move. Liara, move.

Liara, Singularity.

James, Carnage.

Sniper rifle!

Liara, Stasis!

Concussive shot. Follow me. Activate. Open."

Yeah, that's pretty much how it works.

Continue reading Testing Kinect in Mass Effect 3 (plus, demo coming February 14) [update: more demo details]

JoystiqTesting Kinect in Mass Effect 3 (plus, demo coming February 14) [update: more demo details] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ces-2012immersionkinectmass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftvoice-commandsxboxWed, 18 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony to never stop getting sued for rumble technology]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/sony-to-never-stop-getting-sued-for-rumble-technology/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/sony-to-never-stop-getting-sued-for-rumble-technology/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/sony-to-never-stop-getting-sued-for-rumble-technology/#comments
It's been more than two years since Immersion and Sony settled their kerfluffle over the latter party's infringement on the former's "haptic feedback" (rumble) technology. However, Sony's not quite out of the woods yet -- it's currently the subject of yet another civil suit, filed this time by Craig Thorner, an engineer who also held a number of patents relating to haptic feedback.

Brace yourselves -- this gets confusing. After its settlement with Sony, Immersion was set to take on Performance Designed Products (PDP) for similar rumble-yoinking reasons. PDP contacted Thorner for some pre-litigious preparation. They negotiated terms for the licensing of his patents -- though Thorner used the same lawyers who represented Sony to help with said negotiation. His complaint is that these lawyers got him unfavorable results in the negotiation, including low royalty payments, and the inclusion of a provision that would grant a patent license to Sony.

So, technically, Sony's getting sued for patent infringement and legal malpractice. Hopefully, no suspected shady dealings will go down in this case. We'd hate to see Sony get stuck in some sort of inescapable infinite lawsuit loop.

Update: Turns out we've already turned your attention to this intense legal showdown. Consider this a helpful accidental reminder!

JoystiqSony to never stop getting sued for rumble technology originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 May 2009 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craig-thornerhapticimmersionlawlawsuitpdpperipheralsrumblesonyTue, 19 May 2009 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[N.J. inventor says Sony ripped him off, tricked him out of cash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/n-j-inventor-says-sony-ripped-him-off-tricked-him-out-of-cash/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/n-j-inventor-says-sony-ripped-him-off-tricked-him-out-of-cash/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/n-j-inventor-says-sony-ripped-him-off-tricked-him-out-of-cash/#comments
OK, you know we have little tolerance for anything that's more legally demanding than Phoenix Wright, so just try to hang in there with us. Inventor Craig Thorner has filed suit against Sony, saying that the company and a handful of lawyers tricked him out of some money he could have received for patents he owned on rumble technology.

To put it as simply as possible: Thorner had some patents that both Sony and Immersion tried to get during their legal squabbling. Thinking it might net him some cash, Thorner licensed his patents to Immersion, which won its case against Sony. Immersion then went after PDP/Electro Source, which also licensed Thorner's patents after he believed his deal with Immersion expired. But (stick with us!) Sony and PDP/Electro Source had teamed up, and Thorner alleges that he wasn't informed of the deal, which made him license his patents to PDP for much less than he could have had he known (that's the "tricked him out of cash" part).

God, that was exhausting. If you want even more detail (if not necessarily a better understanding) of the case you can read GamePolitics' full piece here.

JoystiqN.J. inventor says Sony ripped him off, tricked him out of cash originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Craig-Thornerdual-shockgamepoliticsimmersionPDPsonyThu, 23 Apr 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Immersion shakes $20.75 million into Microsoft's coffers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/immersion-shakes-20-75-million-into-microsofts-coffers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/immersion-shakes-20-75-million-into-microsofts-coffers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/immersion-shakes-20-75-million-into-microsofts-coffers/#commentsFiled under: ,


Microsoft has won its claim against rumble licensor Immersion Corp., receiving $20.75 million from the company, Reuters reports. The particulars of the case revolve around a 2003 sub-licensing agreement between the two companies in which Microsoft was entitled to a portion of the cash that Immersion eventually settled on in its case against Sony.

It appears that everything is now ship-shake between all the corporations involved and we can continue enjoying the jiggles we get from our controllers.

Source -- Payback Time: Immersion To Pay $20.75 Million To Microsoft (Efluxmedia)
Source -- Immersion settles suit with Microsoft (Reuters)

[Thanks, laserboyjc]

JoystiqImmersion shakes $20.75 million into Microsoft's coffers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>immersionmicrosoftrumbleXbox-360Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Balance Board becomes interactive storytelling tool]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/balance-board-becomes-interactive-storytelling-tool/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/balance-board-becomes-interactive-storytelling-tool/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/balance-board-becomes-interactive-storytelling-tool/#commentsFiled under: ,


Okay, it's kind of hard to figure out exactly what the Inscape software is -- the website describes it as "a unique integrating collaborative tool supporting a wide range of devices and media formats to enable digital content creators to plan, build, experience and publish interactive multimedia stories." We think it's software that allows you to import content and build an interactive framework for presenting it. We're imagining a PowerPoint with more stuff to do in the presentations, basically. Which means that it could be used for anything from visual novels to self-guided presentations to games.

Immersion, who is part of the consortium that works on InScape, has now added a Balance Board interface to the software, enabling whatever these interactive stories are to maintain a new level of, well, immersion. It's cool to see our little toy scale being used in what seems like a serious program. And it's especially cool to see any program "officially" supporting a Wii peripheral.

JoystiqBalance Board becomes interactive storytelling tool originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardimmersioninscapestorytellingFri, 08 Aug 2008 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: The sound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-daily-the-sound/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-daily-the-sound/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ds-daily-the-sound/#commentsFiled under: ,

We'll be the first to admit it -- we don't listen to most DS games. Unless the music and effects are really great (or essential), we've usually got the sound turned down, and rarely break out headphones. Oddly, we often treat console games the opposite, listening to the music or sounds whether or not they're compelling. Maybe it's just too easy to relax with the iPod while spending time with the DS, or maybe DS games just aren't always as immersive (there can be drawbacks to short-burst gaming, after all). Do you do the same? Fill us in.

JoystiqDS Daily: The sound originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>headphonesimmersionsoundMon, 23 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Immersion wants Sony to upgrade rumble technology]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/immersion-wants-sony-to-upgrade-rumble-technology/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/immersion-wants-sony-to-upgrade-rumble-technology/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/immersion-wants-sony-to-upgrade-rumble-technology/#commentsFiled under: ,


While the announcement that Sony would finally bring the DualShock 3 to the PS3 excited us all, we couldn't help but feel a little underwhelmed when we realized the controller would utilize the same rumble technology found in the DualShock 2.

However, if Immersion CEO Vic Viegas has his way, the DualShock 3 will be just the first-generation rumble controller for the PS3. "Immersion is very motivated and very interested in working with [Sony] to bring the next generation of gaming technology because the gamers deserve a full, immersive environment where you can match high-fidelity graphics and sound with high-quality haptics," he said. "We're hoping [the DualShock 3] will be just the first step towards integrating the next-generation technology."

What makes this prospective upgrade even more plausible is the fact that Viegas says the upgrade will actually be cheaper since the old technology uses two motors, while Immersion's TouchSense technology only needs one to achieve better results. "Immersion is already committed that we won't charge anything extra for the next technology. We have a standard royalty rate ... we don't want to make this more expensive and give anyone a reason not to implement it," Viegas said.

JoystiqImmersion wants Sony to upgrade rumble technology originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dualshock3immersionrumbleWed, 03 Oct 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Immersion CEO on next-gen rumble and possible Nintendo IP infringement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/immersion-ceo-on-next-gen-rumble-and-possible-nintendo-ip-infrin/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/immersion-ceo-on-next-gen-rumble-and-possible-nintendo-ip-infrin/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/immersion-ceo-on-next-gen-rumble-and-possible-nintendo-ip-infrin/#commentsFiled under: ,


Immersion CEO Vic Viegas says in an interview with GameDaily that he doesn't understand why Sony decided to put the DualShock 2's rumble technology into the DualShock 3, considering he believes the new next-gen rumble technology is cheaper. Viegas says, "The old technology utilizes two motors to create the complex set of sensations, whereas Immersion's new TouchSense technology utilizes a single motor, but we drive the motor in unique ways so that you can get stronger yet crisper effects." He says the one motor uses less power, "the cost to implement is less expensive than the old tech" and he says they won't charge Sony extra.

Viegas also talked a little about handhelds and implementing rumble into the DS or PSP. Currently Nintendo does not license its vibration tech from Immersion and may be working on their own ways of bringing rumble to the DS. As to whether Immersion might sue Nintendo one day like they did Sony, Viegas says, "We have not yet formally taken a position on whether it's infringing or not infringing any of our IP." Then again, if Nintendo can afford $18 million in Wiimote jackets, licensing some next-gen rumble might be an afterthought for them.

JoystiqImmersion CEO on next-gen rumble and possible Nintendo IP infringement originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>immersioninfringementipnintendoPS3rumblesonyWed, 03 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS07: DualShock 3 unveiled, PS3 learns to shake, rattle and roll]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-dualshock-3-unveiled-ps3-learns-to-shake-rattle-and-rol/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-dualshock-3-unveiled-ps3-learns-to-shake-rattle-and-rol/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-dualshock-3-unveiled-ps3-learns-to-shake-rattle-and-rol/#commentsFiled under:

At their Tokyo Game Show press conference today, Sony finally revealed how the PS3 got its groove back. Kaz Hirai announced that the DualShock 3 -- a Sixaxis controller with rumble -- will be out this November in Japan and Spring 2008 everywhere else.

Future games, such as Metal Gear Solid 4, will incorporate rumble technology, while older titles can enable rumble through software updates. No price has been given, nor was there any discussion on whether the Sixaxis would be phased out.

JoystiqTGS07: DualShock 3 unveiled, PS3 learns to shake, rattle and roll originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2007 23:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dualshockdualshock3immersionkazhirairumblesixaxistgs07Wed, 19 Sep 2007 23:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft wants some of that money that Sony gave Immersion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/microsoft-wants-some-of-that-money-that-sony-gave-immersion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/microsoft-wants-some-of-that-money-that-sony-gave-immersion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/microsoft-wants-some-of-that-money-that-sony-gave-immersion/#commentsIn one of the weirder twists in the Sony/Immersion saga, Microsoft has sued Immersion, claiming breach of contract over their settlement with Sony. According to the lawsuit, Microsoft is owed a certain amount of the money that Sony paid Immersion earlier this year to settle the long running force-feedback lawsuit. And not a small amount of money either, as explained by Immersion in their rebuttal to Microsoft's claims:

"Immersion is obligated to pay Microsoft a minimum of $15.0 million for any amounts received from Sony up to $100.0 million, plus 25% of any amounts over $100.0 million up to $150.0 million, and 17.5% of any amounts over $150.0 million."

In addition, Microsoft also wants Immersion to pay a variety of other fees including damages and attorney fees. Immersion feels rather strongly that they shouldn't have to pay though and say they are willing to fight it, so it looks like they're going back to court. And considering it took them four years to finish the lawsuit with Sony, it doesn't bode well that this will be a quick trial. What's next? Nintendo sues Microsoft for suing Immersion over suing Sony?

JoystiqMicrosoft wants some of that money that Sony gave Immersion originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>force-feedbackimmersionmicrosoftrumblesonyWed, 20 Jun 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft sues Immersion over alleged breach of contract]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/microsoft-sues-immersion-over-alleged-breach-of-contract/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/microsoft-sues-immersion-over-alleged-breach-of-contract/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/microsoft-sues-immersion-over-alleged-breach-of-contract/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Haptic technology developer Immersion has been sued by Microsoft for not following through with their end of an agreement that settled a lawsuit originally filed by Immersion towards the Xbox 360 maker back in 2003. Funny how things come full circle.

Microsoft cited a portion of the agreement where Immersion was to pay the company "based on certain business and IP licensing arrangements" but has not done so. The original agreement had Microsoft paying $26 million for licensing rights and a stake in the company.

Immersion is probably best known in the video game industry for its lawsuits against Sony over patents based on their force feedback technology. Though Microsoft settled, Sony fought it and lost, eventually paying over $90 million to the patent holder.

JoystiqMicrosoft sues Immersion over alleged breach of contract originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>force feedbackForceFeedbackimmersionlawsuitlegalmicrosoftrumblevibrationXboxXbox-360Mon, 18 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Battery life could be prohibiting rumble in Sixaxis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/battery-life-could-be-prohibiting-rumble-in-sixaxis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/battery-life-could-be-prohibiting-rumble-in-sixaxis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/battery-life-could-be-prohibiting-rumble-in-sixaxis/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sources close to Inner Bits reportedly tell them that Sony unsurprisingly has been working for the past few months on engineering the Sixaxis controller to shake and rattle (it already rolls). The problem currently lies with battery life.

"Between the rumble and the wireless support, the batteries are draining too fast to be acceptable for consumers," said the report. The project has been going on for months and Inner Bits believe (as do we) that Sony will manage to find an efficient solution.

One point the report brings up is Sony public relations, as they have in the past cited rumble as "not next-gen" (pending a now-settled Immersion lawsuit) and then getting those who already have rumble-less Sixaxis pads to upgrade. Rumble has rarely been used as an integral feature to gameplay (one exception includes finding hidden objects in Psychonauts).

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqBattery life could be prohibiting rumble in Sixaxis originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hard wareHardWareimmersionPS3six axisSixAxissonyFri, 15 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sixaxis to gain rumble capabilities sometime this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/sixaxis-to-gain-rumble-capabilities-sometime-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/sixaxis-to-gain-rumble-capabilities-sometime-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/sixaxis-to-gain-rumble-capabilities-sometime-this-year/#commentsThe latest issue of PlayStation Magazine, according to a member over at the GameFAQs forum, the instigation of a rumbling Sixaxis may come sooner than expected. Ever since the lawsuit and all the hubbub with Immersion simmered down, everybody has been waiting for an announcement about rumble's "last-gen" technology making a comeback.

It seems the wait will not be as long as we expected. Even though Sony's talking heads dodge the question like its a flaming shuriken, a rumble-axis has been in the works for a bit and will be announced at the upcoming E3 event, followed by the announcement that a release will be scheduled for the redesigned controller for mid-November. Tilting and rumbling? We can't wait. We wonder, though -- will older PS3 games be able to update their software to include rumble technology?

[via Joystiq]

JoystiqSixaxis to gain rumble capabilities sometime this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2007 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ImmersionPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3rumbleSixaxisSonyThu, 24 May 2007 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSM: Sixaxis will rumble this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/psm-sixaxis-will-rumble-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/psm-sixaxis-will-rumble-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/psm-sixaxis-will-rumble-this-year/#commentsFiled under: ,


According to a GameFAQs forum member, the latest issue of PSM revives the PS3 Sixaxis rumble rumors, hinting once again that Sony could integrate the "last-gen feature" into upcoming controllers. According to the magazine's rumor section, Sony will announce rumble support at E3 for a release in mid-November. The re-designed controller will allow both tilting and rumble, united at long last thanks to the settled courtroom battle between Sony and Immersion.

JoystiqPSM: Sixaxis will rumble this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2007 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>immersionps3psmrumblerumorsixasissonyThu, 24 May 2007 08:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony and Immersion start working on a rumble...axis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sony-and-immersion-start-working-on-a-rumble-axis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sony-and-immersion-start-working-on-a-rumble-axis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sony-and-immersion-start-working-on-a-rumble-axis/#commentsFiled under: ,

Keeping with the palindrome name of SIXAXIS, we'd like to invite you guys to think up a palindrome for a PlayStation 3 controller that rumbles. Let's see... RUMBLBMUR? Terrible. That's my offering. Anyway, Sony and Immersion are officially in chats to discuss how to incorporate their technology into the SIXAXIS and other such peripherals.

This is coming from Sony PR honcho Dave Karraker, who replied to some curious people on a Killzone fansite. Asking about rumble and whatever, Karraker responded thus: "We are currently in discussions with Immersion on how we can incorporate their technologies into our products. No word on when that will happen." By "no word" we are of course going to take that as "announcement coming soon. E3? TGS? Sure." Thoughts?

JoystiqSony and Immersion start working on a rumble...axis originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ImmersionPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3SIXAXISSonyThu, 26 Apr 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[So, how much did Sony actually pay Immersion?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/so-how-much-did-sony-actually-pay-immersion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/so-how-much-did-sony-actually-pay-immersion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/06/so-how-much-did-sony-actually-pay-immersion/#commentsFiled under: ,

The whole Sony and Immersion battle royale (so to speak... no schoolchildren were killing each other to our knowledge) has ended. Rumble is most likely on its way. What'll happen to the old SIXAXES (plural... even though technically it doesn't work since it's an acronym, probably)? What'll happen to the old games that didn't have rumble built in originally? Whatever! That's not important. What we really want to know is what truly went down in the courthouse.

So, the whole rumble lawsuit (where Sony was found guilty of using Immersion's patented technology in the PS-One and PS2) ended with a final settlement of $150.3 million dollars. Not satisfied with the settlement, Sony went the extra mile and licensed Immersion's technology to $22.5 million dollars. That's a good chunk of change in total, but will it be worth it? We'll find out when we see how rumble and tilt will work together. It'll be neat to have the controller rumble if you're tilting the wrong way in a game like Warhawk -- if you're getting drag on the left wing or something, the left side of the controller rumbles as you tilt it that way. So many options. Thoughts?

JoystiqSo, how much did Sony actually pay Immersion? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ImmersionPlaystation 3Playstation3PS3RumbleSIXAXISSonyTue, 06 Mar 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumble unquestionably coming to PS3... right?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/rumble-unquestionably-coming-to-ps3-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/rumble-unquestionably-coming-to-ps3-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/02/rumble-unquestionably-coming-to-ps3-right/#commentsFiled under: ,

Immersion and Sony are friends again. Everything is settled, the world is at peace, blah blah blah... Bob Loblaw Lobs Law Bomb! Sometimes I feel like I'm one of about four people who watched Arrested Development. Someone help me out here! In any case, Immersion and Sony resolved their differences and have once again entered into a partnership to stick Immersion stuff inside of Sony stuff -- use your imagination carefully.

Dave Karraker said this: "We are very pleased to have reached a cooperative agreement with Immersion regarding the use of its advanced vibration technology (haptics technology). We look forward to working closely with them as we explore new and innovative ways to utilize this technology in PlayStation products." Great. With rumble coming back, possibly, we ask this: can firmware game updates install rumble tech in games currently out that don't support it, like Resistance or MotorStorm?

GamesIndustry followed up this story by noting that Immersion has indeed begun to incorporate the new rumble technology in Sony products. It's not an "if" anymore -- it's "when" rumble will be released. As CEO of Immersion, Victor Viegas, put it: "Our new business agreement with Sony is specifically intended to enable advanced vibration capability for the benefit of the PlayStation community." Hell yeah. Now vibration enthusiasts have nothing to complain about ever again. Just as stand-up comic Daniel Tosh said, "we should legalize marijuana in this country. Yeah, that way pot heads will never have anything to talk about ever again." The same applies here. All is well in rumble country.

JoystiqRumble unquestionably coming to PS3... right? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ImmersionPlaystation 3Playstation3PS3RumbleSIXAXISSonyFri, 02 Mar 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony and Immersion reach settlement, feel good vibrations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/01/sony-and-immersion-reach-settlement-feel-good-vibrations/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/01/sony-and-immersion-reach-settlement-feel-good-vibrations/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/01/sony-and-immersion-reach-settlement-feel-good-vibrations/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The patent litigation saga between Sony and Immersion Corporation has at last come to a close. After being sued for $91 million dollars following the DualShock's alleged incorporation of Immersion rumble technology, Sony has paid up and entered into a new business arrangement with its former courtroom nemesis. The GameDaily BIZ report notes that both parties are currently evaluating the possibilities such an agreement would entail for the PlayStation line of products.

As Sony's director of corporate communications puts it, "We are very pleased to have reached a cooperative agreement with Immersion regarding the use of its advanced vibration technology (haptics technology). We look forward to working closely with them as we explore new and innovative ways to utilize this technology in PlayStation products." A future, rumbling version of the Sixaxis remains a distinct possibility and certainly one that could easily be supported by developers in upcoming games -- even if it is a bit last-gen.

JoystiqSony and Immersion reach settlement, feel good vibrations originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Mar 2007 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dual ShockDualShockImmersionPS2PS3SixaxisThu, 01 Mar 2007 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony not ready to rumble with Splitfish]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/31/sony-not-ready-to-rumble-with-splitfish/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/31/sony-not-ready-to-rumble-with-splitfish/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/31/sony-not-ready-to-rumble-with-splitfish/#commentsFiled under: ,

In announcing their SensorFX force feedback system for the PS3 yesterday, accessory-maker SplitFish somewhat coyly mentioned that the technology "can be sold as an add-on to existing controllers or as an imbedded [sic] feature that is part of a standard controller." The second part of that sentence led some to believe that an official deal with Sony to add rumble support to the PS3's SixAxis controller might be afoot.

Today, Sony spokesman Dave Karakker put any such rumors to rest, telling GameDaily that "no one at SCEA has been in touch with this company," and, furthermore, "at this time, we have no plans to incorporate any kind of force feedback into our SIXAXIS controller."

Without any official support from Sony, any PS3 rumble solution from a third party would likely have a hard time garnering support from game developers and publishers. As Immersion CEO Vic Vegas pointed out in an earlier interview with GameDaily "[Sony] can filter out vibration commands; essentially if they don't want vibration they can shut it down and it appears that's what they're doing."

But the question then remains: why don't they want it. Despite Sony's original protests that rumble technology "interferes with information detected by the sensor," the Wii shows that force feedback and motion sensing are possible in the same controller. Legal threats from Immersion might cause Sony to be wary, but Immersion themselves have offered to work with Sony on a legally acceptable solution. Cost might be an issue, but with Sony already losing hundreds on each unit of hardware, a few more bucks of loss in each controller hardly seems like a deal-breaker.

At this point, the only thing we can figure that's stopping Sony from adding rumble support to the SixAxis is some sort of foolish pride. Yes, adding rumble support mere months after the system's launch would essentially be admitting a large mistake in the original controller design. But a self-assured company should be able to absorb this temporary, minor embarrassment for the sake of the long term interests of the system. Sony, apparently, is not that kind of company.

JoystiqSony not ready to rumble with Splitfish originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Jan 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>force feedbackForceFeedbackimmersionPS3rumblesonysplitfishWed, 31 Jan 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 won't support force feedback wheels]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/05/ps3-wont-support-force-feedback-wheels/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/05/ps3-wont-support-force-feedback-wheels/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/05/ps3-wont-support-force-feedback-wheels/#commentsFiled under: , ,

logitechSony recently confirmed with 1UP that PlayStation 3 will not support force feedback, a technology that is often integrated into racing wheel peripherals. The explanation was vague: "All PS3 games are programmed for the Sixaxis which doesn't have force feedback, therefore the force feedback in the wheels won't be recognized."

Perhaps Sony misspoke. There aren't any console gamepads that support the type of force feedback technology built into many top-line racing wheels, so when this feature is enabled in racing games, it's an additional programming step that only benefits players using an appropriate racing wheel -- it simply doesn't matter that Sixaxis lacks full force feedback (or even simple rumble feedback). If Sony is actively dissuading developers from coding in force feedback support for racing wheels compatible with PS3, it has nothing to do with what Sixaxis lacks ... then again, it might have everything to do with what Sixaxis lacks.

If indeed Immersion technologies like rumble and force feedback are never be supported by Sony's new console it's almost certainly the result of the 2003 lawsuit brought against Sony by Immersion, and the judge's denial of Sony's subsequent appeal.

JoystiqPS3 won't support force feedback wheels originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Jan 2007 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Force FeedbackForceFeedbackGamepadImmersionLawsuitPS3RacingRacing WheelRacingWheelRumbleSixaxisWheelFri, 05 Jan 2007 19:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Immersion wants Kaz to understand -- rumble + motion = possible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/07/immersion-wants-kaz-to-understand-rumble-motion-possible/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/07/immersion-wants-kaz-to-understand-rumble-motion-possible/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/07/immersion-wants-kaz-to-understand-rumble-motion-possible/#commentsFiled under: ,

Immersion CEO Vic Viegas sat down with GameDaily to talk about the whole rumble vs. motion sensing vs. both issue between Immersion and Sony. What did he say? He said that Kaz Hirai is "really saying two things. One is that it's technically possible but that the cost is prohibitive-which again I find astounding-and the second thing he's saying is that they're making a decision to go with this tilt control in place of rumble because they think that's what consumers will appreciate in their gameplay. So, on those two issues again I'm very surprised and shocked because I don't believe either to be the case." Yeah, yeah. We know it's not exactly what everyone wants. But... what's the price issue?

Viegas assured GameDaily that "our engineers in less than a day had come up with three solutions; one is filtering and the other is processing and neither one is incrementally an increase in the cost. Both are using software to filter out the different commands-tilt vs. vibration-so that both can work side by side, and neither solution will add an increase to the cost of the system... We knew how to technically solve their problems and now we know how to do it without adding any incremental cost." So... it can be done and not be costly? Well, if Sony won't listen, why not go through a third party?

In regards to third party controllers, Immersion says they aren't entirely in control... they're at Sony's mercy, in a sense. To quote: "It appears that Sony has not yet ruled out a third-party solution... but if [developers] don't support vibration in the game, that's going to cause a problem. The controller would have no commands to receive from the gameplay. Sony's in some control there and Sony's also in control of the console, so they can filter out vibration commands; essentially if they don't want vibration they can shut it down and it appears that's what they're doing..."

So, those three quotes show us a few things: If Sony stops being stubborn, we could see a rumble/tilt controller that would cost nothing extra... maybe marginally more. Also, third party controllers won't matter unless Sony and game developers decide to implement vibration into their software, or else it's useless. It is sad, but give it a year or two and we can probably see some sort of agreement. You can't possible be stubborn forever and ever, can you?

JoystiqImmersion wants Kaz to understand -- rumble + motion = possible originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Oct 2006 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dual ShockDualShockImmersionPlaystation 3Playstation3PS3SIXAXISSonySat, 07 Oct 2006 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony says no, Immersion says yes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/sony-says-no-immersion-says-yes/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/sony-says-no-immersion-says-yes/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/05/sony-says-no-immersion-says-yes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Our colleagues at GameDaily BIZ spoke with Victor Viegas, CEO of force feedback patent holder Immersion, about Sony VP Kaz Hirai's recent comments on the PS3 controller's lack of rumble. Hirai told Kikizo in a taped interview, "If we have to come up with technology ... to isolate the vibration from the sensing, but if that means that the controllers are going to be so expensive, then we're doing the consumer a huge disservice by coming up with a controller that is not very affordable."

Viegas responded that his company "knew how to technically solve their problems" and they now "know how to do it without adding any incremental cost." He even cited a third party PS2 controller, the G-Pad Pro, that "incorporates both motion sensing and vibration and goes for the retail price of just $29.95." That's only $5 more than a Dual Shock.

We can't help but be shaken, rumbled even, by the irony of proclaiming cost sensitivity as the purported rationale for excising the controller's force feedback functionality when the console it will wirelessly communicate with has been criticized, by most everyone below the 35% tax bracket, for being extravagantly expensive. Note to Sony: We're pretty sure anyone ponying up $500-$600 for a PS3 would be more than willing to shell out an extra $5 for force feedback.

With Nintendo's rumbling, motion-sensing controller combo going for a princely $60, and Microsoft's rumbling, motion-free 360 gamepad going for a steep $50, how should Sony price their lightweight, rumble-free Sixaxis? They've already said it's got to be affordable.

Other peripheral pricing:
PS3: Dual Shake is dead, long live Sixaxis

Read - Hirai: No Rumble in PS3 Controller Due to Cost
Read - Immersion CEO: Rumble + Motion Not Cost Prohibitive

JoystiqSony says no, Immersion says yes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Oct 2006 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Force FeedbackForceFeedbackImmersionKaz HiraiKazHiraiPS3RumbleSixaxisSonyVictor ViegasVictorViegasThu, 05 Oct 2006 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Immerse yourself in Immersion's PS3 rumble survey]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/06/immerse-yourself-in-immersions-ps3-rumble-survey/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/06/immerse-yourself-in-immersions-ps3-rumble-survey/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/06/immerse-yourself-in-immersions-ps3-rumble-survey/#commentsFiled under:

Immersion Technology has slapped up an online poll that seeks to get insight from the gaming public about their feelings towards the lack of a rumble feature in Sony's new console. It's essentially a tool to petition Sony into adding rumble to their controller, maybe to incorporate their own new technology: TouchSense vibration.

Immersion's website really makes the technology sound far more appealing than the tilt-sensor feature of the current PS3 controller. Imagine being able to feel your car in a racing game run over a rock on the left side -- your left hand feels a sudden, violent jolt. Now imagine using your controller to steer the car ... kind of. Hmm. Kojima was right in wishing for a switch to go between the two features, but this new TouchSense technology "can work alongside motion-control and tilt-sensing features". What? Why isn't Sony jumping on this? Perhaps we should all take the poll, multiple times, regardless of whether or not it's biased and hope Sony listens. Having the best of both worlds would certainly rock and roll. Or ... rumble and tilt.

[via Joystiq]

JoystiqImmerse yourself in Immersion's PS3 rumble survey originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Jul 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>immersionimmersion technologyImmersionTechnologyonline pollOnlinePollPlaystation 3Playstation controllerPlaystation3PlaystationControllerPS3PS3 controllerPs3Controllerrumble featureRumbleFeaturetilt-sensortouchsense vibrationTouchsenseVibrationThu, 06 Jul 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dual Shake may rumble still]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/dualshake-may-rumble-still/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/dualshake-may-rumble-still/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/dualshake-may-rumble-still/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Skin of your teeth, white-knuckle and overly elaborate escapes can be made all the more engaging and memorable by the subtle rumbling of the controller in your hands. Of course, having just stolen a Dual Shock 2 from the lonely demo unit in your local games retailer, palpable excitement is something you have in droves, not to mention rampant kleptomania. The vibration emitted by most of today's controllers also adds an extra level of immersion to games like Silent Hill and Halo -- just ask Immersion, they named their company after the idea.

Don't ask Sony, however, since it's a touchy subject. Currently appealing against a court ruling in favor of Immersion's claims that they treaded upon specific patents when they created the Dual Shock controllers (like the one you stole), Sony has come under some fire for dropping rumble functionality from the PS3 controller entirely. An accusatory finger was pointed at the newly implemented motion sensing technology, a move interpreted by some as Sony being unwilling to hand licensing fees over to Immersion. Whether or not that's the case is still up for debate, though Immersion has now unveiled new technology which indicates, at the very least, that a rumbling Dual Shake may still find its way into hands (especially thieving ones).

The "TouchSense" technology for use in next-gen controllers promises added realism in addition to full compatibility with motion and tilt sensing devices. "Because the speed at which a user moves the controller is much slower than the frequencies generated by TouchSense technology, the two signals can be differentiated using filtering and other techniques." Their statement goes on to say that Immersion "offers engineering services to implement the technology within a particular console system."

Will Sony grab this opportunity, or let it slip through their fingers? Is it really that big of a deal?

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqDual Shake may rumble still originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dual ShakeDual ShockDual Shock 2DualShakeDualShockDualShock2Force FeedbackForceFeedbackImmersionPS2PS3RumbleVibrationWed, 21 Jun 2006 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[The cost of Immersion: DualShake a possibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/the-cost-of-immersion-dualshake-a-possibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/the-cost-of-immersion-dualshake-a-possibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/21/the-cost-of-immersion-dualshake-a-possibility/#commentsFiled under:

What is it about innovation that seems to bring out the worst in companies? When Sony began showing off its newest controller, cries from fans elsewhere claimed that they had copied Nintendo's motion-sensing technology. Back in the day, the PS2 had a similar situation that prompted litigation which Sony is still grappling with today. The idea was the rumbling technology, and Immersion said it was theirs.

Enter the Sony-Immersion headache. The latter took it to court in an effort to settle their rights on certain patents which claimed the controller tech. Long story short: Sony's been paying out a royalty every quarter in a deal which circumvents a $90 million settlement they would otherwise have to pay to Immersion. With a pending appeal against the settlement, many are saying Sony has dropped the rumbling technology from their latest PS3 controller due to the bad vibe between the companies.

But what should they do if along came a solution to the motion-sensing rumble conundrum? This is where TouchSense comes in. According to Immersion, they have the ability to make the PlayStation 3 controller shake, rattle and roll with force feedback, all the while retaining its sensing feature. However, there's still that icky $90 million thorn in their side. If Sony would cough up the cash, gamers could have their cake and eat it too. But they're saying it's too late and there's just not enough time to implement TouchSense. This, of course, contradicts Immersion's claim that it would only take a matter of weeks. Is force feedback worth the price? Would gamers even notice? These are questions that we're betting Sony is still trying to tackle.

JoystiqThe cost of Immersion: DualShake a possibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jun 2006 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dualshakeimmersionplaystationps3rumblesonyvibevibrationsWed, 21 Jun 2006 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[360 to Wii: Anything you can do, I can do better]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/360-to-wii-anything-you-can-do-i-can-do-better/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/360-to-wii-anything-you-can-do-i-can-do-better/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/360-to-wii-anything-you-can-do-i-can-do-better/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We saw what Sony's PlayStation 3 EyeToy can do in terms of motion technology (as well as its upgraded PS3 remote), and we know Nintendo's primary console feature is its motion-sensored remote, but what about the Xbox 360? Aaron Stanton of About.com visited the GestureTek booth in Kentia Hall at last week's E3 to learn about a new development kit to use with the Xbox 360 camera. Not only can it map your face to a character model, but with GestureTek's technology the Xbox 360 camera can accurately track a player's movement, including specific finger usage.

To further impress, GestureTek demonstrated for Stanton how the technology can emulate each Nintendo Wii game on the show floor. The technology is impressive, of course, but as Stanton points out not likely to surpass the Wii. Simply put, the GestureTek demo is just that -- a demo. And on top of that, technology for a peripheral, which can be easily ignored by developers. It'll be interesting to see if Microsoft and Sony use their respective cameras to match Nintendo's features, but if Sony's press conference is any indication (Sony just glazed over its EyeToy demo), we doubt it.

[Thanks, Eric Stoben]

Joystiq360 to Wii: Anything you can do, I can do better originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 May 2006 21:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e32006eyetoyimmersionkentia hallKentiaHallPS3WiiXbox-360Wed, 17 May 2006 21:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Live Anywhere could enhance MMOs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/11/live-anywhere-could-enhance-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/11/live-anywhere-could-enhance-mmos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/11/live-anywhere-could-enhance-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With the upcoming Live Anywhere service from Microsoft, various gaming platforms will unite in new ways. For MMOs, this means some exciting scenarios in the realm of pervasive gaming, gameplay that will follow you around, creating a seamless virtual world across your PC, phone and console.

Checking in-game auctions from a mobile phone has been on our MMO wishlist for some time -- Live Anywhere will enable that, and other immersive features. Levelling up crafting skills via casual mini-games; chatting with guild leaders via PC or phone-based VoIP; sending in-game mail and IM from normal mail and IM clients.

We'll have to wait and see if Live Anywhere will support more unification, such as matching friends lists and clan systems both in-game and outside it, but there are definitely some really cool possibilities that this vision opens up for MMOs. It's up to Microsoft and developers to really deliver on this potential.

JoystiqLive Anywhere could enhance MMOs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 May 2006 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3e32006immersionLive-AnywheremicrosoftmmommorpgPCpervasive gamingPervasiveGamingvirtual worldVirtualWorldvistaThu, 11 May 2006 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 pad loses DualShock name and vibration but picks up Wii-esque motion detection and wireless connectivity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/ps3-pad-loses-dualshock-name-and-vibration-but-picks-up-wii-esqu/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/ps3-pad-loses-dualshock-name-and-vibration-but-picks-up-wii-esqu/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/09/ps3-pad-loses-dualshock-name-and-vibration-but-picks-up-wii-esqu/#commentsFiled under:

Revised PS3 pad rear-view shot
In a shocking turn of events, the PS3 controller has gone from banamerang to wireless DualShock 3, except without the DualShock name and vibration.

If you take a good look at the back of the new control pad (see the close-up above), you'll notice that the DualShock 2 brand name imprinted on the old controller has now been supplanted by a row of LED lights to show which input has been set, either wirelessly or via the wired USB recharge port. Sony's now the only name in-line for PS3 controllers either on the pad or in the press releases (see "the new PS3 controller").

Continue reading PS3 pad loses DualShock name and vibration but picks up Wii-esque motion detection and wireless connectivity

JoystiqPS3 pad loses DualShock name and vibration but picks up Wii-esque motion detection and wireless connectivity originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 May 2006 00:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360adaptadaptedadaptsadoptadoptedadoptsanalogbanamerangbananabatarangbatteriesbatteryBluetoothboomerangbrand nameBrandNamebumpercasecasingconnectconnectivitycontrol padcontrollercontrollersControlPadcourtdetectdetectingdetectionDual ShockDual Shock 2Dual Shock 3DualShockDualShock 2DualShock 3DualShock2DualShock3force feedbackforce-feedbackForceFeedbackfunctionalityGuidehaptichardwareImmersionin-lineincorporateinputinterfacelaterallawsuitLEDLED lightsLedLightsmanufacturermotionnamenewNintendooldpadpatentpitchPlayStationPlayStation 2Playstation2portpredecessorpress releasepress releasesPressReleasePressReleasesPS2rechargeRevolutionrollrumblesensingshouldersix-axisSonysupporttriggerUSBUSB recharge portUsbRechargePortvibrationweighweighsWiiWii-moteWiimotewiredwirelesswirelesslyX-Y-ZXboxXbox 360Xbox LiveXbox360XboxLiveyawTue, 09 May 2006 00:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Shocking DualShock case still not going Sony's way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/13/shocking-dualshock-case-still-not-going-sonys-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/13/shocking-dualshock-case-still-not-going-sonys-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/13/shocking-dualshock-case-still-not-going-sonys-way/#commentsFiled under:

A DualShock 2 controller and a judge's gavelSony's attempt to overturn the 2004 ruling on Immersion's haptic technology patents and receive a new trial was denied in court recently.

The Wall Street Journal tells quite a tale concerning another force-feedback inventor, originally a paid consultant of Immersion, who allegedly received advance royalties from Sony in exchange for testimony against his former client. There's enough drama in this case to fill a television soap opera--or, better yet, a police or crime-scene procedural.

For the full contents of the article, you'll need to log in as a subscriber to the Journal through the picture above or the Read link below. We don't know to what extent this courtroom drama will affect the "boomerang" PS3 prototype controller design, future DualShock 2 availability and compatibility, or any possible delays to the new system itself, but Sony's separate appeal in federal court has yet to be ruled on, leaving the company one more crucial legal avenue to pursue in this matter.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqShocking DualShock case still not going Sony's way originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Mar 2006 20:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appealcontrollercourtdelaydesignDualShockfederalforce feedbackForceFeedbackhaptic technologyHapticTechnologyImmersionlegal avenueLegalAvenueoverturnpatentrulingsoap operaSoapOperatrialWall Street JournalWallStreetJournalMon, 13 Mar 2006 20:27:00 EST