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[Controller prototype stretches thumbs for extra feedback]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/controller-prototype-stretches-thumbs-for-extra-feedback/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/controller-prototype-stretches-thumbs-for-extra-feedback/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/controller-prototype-stretches-thumbs-for-extra-feedback/#comments
Video game feedback systems haven't changed dramatically since the implementation of "rumble" over a decade ago. Engineers at the University of Utah hope to change that with a new kind of controller. The prototype controller provides haptic feedback via small pads that sit under the player's thumbs. These pads can move in any direction, stretching the skin of the thumb, offering directional cues or simulating in-game events.

The pads can mimic the usual game fare -- explosions and the like -- but they can also simulate more tactile sensations, like the "feeling" of crawling on the ground while prone in a shooter. Another example shows the pads indicating the direction that enemy fire is coming from, or simulating impact against a surface.

It's a bit hard to grasp from the description alone, so we suggest you check out the video above for a peek at our possible future. Associate professor of mechanical engineering, William Provancher, hopes to see the controller in production in time for the next generation of game consoles.

JoystiqController prototype stretches thumbs for extra feedback originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerfeedbackHaptic-feedbackperipheralsuniversity-of-utahTue, 06 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Snag this crazy iOS peripheral, get free ride in a police car]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/snag-this-crazy-ios-peripheral-get-free-ride-in-a-police-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/snag-this-crazy-ios-peripheral-get-free-ride-in-a-police-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/snag-this-crazy-ios-peripheral-get-free-ride-in-a-police-car/#comments This happens to us every time: We walk into the cell phone store, search the displays excitedly, and are immediately disappointed by the lack of small firearms for sale. Every time. Mobile games developer Metal Compass is looking to change this depressing experience with the Xappr, a gun-shaped smartphone peripheral for a selection of augmented-reality and shooting apps, including AR Invaders and Spray'Em. Xappr is compatible with iOS, Android and Windows devices, although no Windows games are available at the moment.

Metal Compass will be showing off the Xappr at the Nuremberg international toy fair, which runs February 1-6, and expects to begin shipping it in June. Xappr is available for pre-order now, at the lowest price you'll ever pay for a gun you didn't steal: $30 (plus $15 shipping in the US).

JoystiqSnag this crazy iOS peripheral, get free ride in a police car originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidaugmented-realitygunGunsiosipadiphoneMetal-Compassmobilenuremberg-toy-fairperipheralssmartphoneXAPPRThu, 02 Feb 2012 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Here's the Mario Kart 7 steering wheel for 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/heres-the-mario-kart-7-steering-wheel-for-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/heres-the-mario-kart-7-steering-wheel-for-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/heres-the-mario-kart-7-steering-wheel-for-3ds/#comments Oh, you're still worried about the unfortunate form factor of the Nintendo 3DS slide pad peripheral? That's old hat -- Andriasang recently uncovered an attachment which further turns the once sleek handheld into an unpocketable monstrosity: The Hori Mario Kart 7 steering wheel.

The attachment, which carries the official Nintendo seal and will cost ¥1,280 ($17), snaps onto the back of the handheld to give players who use the game's tilt-to-steer functionality a greater sense of ... realism? We guess? All we know is that it better come with a fanny pack to carry around its unwieldy frame, and then some sort of invisibility cloak to protect the wearer from being savagely beaten by everyone who sees them.

JoystiqHere's the Mario Kart 7 steering wheel for 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dshorijapanmario-kart-3dsmario-kart-7nintendoperipheralssteering-wheelTue, 25 Oct 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Calibur11 Battlefield 3 vault prevents your console from going prone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/calibur11-battlefield-3-vault-prevents-your-console-from-going-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/calibur11-battlefield-3-vault-prevents-your-console-from-going-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/calibur11-battlefield-3-vault-prevents-your-console-from-going-p/#comments Don't trip over it. While we're still not convinced it's a great idea to lock your hot, hot console inside a plastic box, Calibur11 has announced the latest in its line of "Vaults." Available for Xbox 360 or PS3, the new model carries a Battlefield 3 theme complete with an LED-lit claymore, decorative(?) smoke grenade and controller cradle.

For what it's worth, Calibur11 also claims that the vault actually improves your console's cooling prowess, thanks to "a performance grid that enhances cooling of your video game system by increasing airflow." The Battlefield 3 vault will go on sale "this fall" for $90. GameStop will also offer a $100 bundle that includes the PS3 vault, a PS3 copy of Battlefield 3 and a download code for the Physical Warfare DLC.

Continue reading Calibur11 Battlefield 3 vault prevents your console from going prone

JoystiqCalibur11 Battlefield 3 vault prevents your console from going prone originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3calibur11microsoftperipheralsplaystationps3vaultxboxWed, 12 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MadCatz's Tritton Detonator now shipping, detonating]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/madcatzs-tritton-detonator-now-shipping-detonating/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/madcatzs-tritton-detonator-now-shipping-detonating/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/madcatzs-tritton-detonator-now-shipping-detonating/#comments We've all been there: It's 3 am, the guys you share your tiny studio apartment with are zonked out after a hard day's hack-sackin' down on the quad, but you'll be awake for another 6 hours, at least. Now, thanks to the Tritton Detonator from MadCatz and Microsoft, your bitter, sleep-deprived roommates will only hear the sound of your frantic stick waggling and trigger flicking, as opposed to the gunfire and chainsaws they normally have to deal with.

The Detonator is the first in a series of official 360 headphones, and its $80 entry fee delivers a USB cord, stereo sound, a detachable boom mic, voice monitoring capabilities and an in-line volume control for the whole kit-n-caboodle. Its big brother, the wireless, Dolby 7.1 rocking WarHead, is still reportedly on track for a holiday release, although we expect that model to cost a bit closer to the self-imposed $300 limit MadCatz mentioned when the headphones were announced.

JoystiqMadCatz's Tritton Detonator now shipping, detonating originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesdetonatorheadphonesheadsetmad-catzmadcatzmicrosoftperipheralstrittonUSBWarHeadxboxxbox-liveSat, 01 Oct 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanatec's Forza 4 accessories now up for pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/fanatecs-forza-4-accessories-now-up-for-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/fanatecs-forza-4-accessories-now-up-for-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/fanatecs-forza-4-accessories-now-up-for-pre-order/#comments Turn 10 Studios and Fanatec have partnered to offer some high-end, wireless peripherals for Forza Motorsport 4. The CSR Wheel ($250), CSR Elite pedals ($150) and CSR shifter ($60) are all made with aluminum parts. The wheel's got force feedback and an LED display for tweaking the turning, force feedback, vibration and sensitivity; five available presets make for easy switching.

The wheel is even compatible with PC and PS3, if you've got other racing games, and the pedals are also compatible with PC via an optional USB cable. Take a gander at the goods in the gallery below.

Gallery: Forza 4 (Fanatec CSR peripherals)

Continue reading Fanatec's Forza 4 accessories now up for pre-order

JoystiqFanatec's Forza 4 accessories now up for pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fanatecforza-4forza-motorsport-4kinect-forzamicrosoftpedalpedalsperipheralsshifterturn-10-studioswheelwheelsxboxFri, 30 Sep 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How ViviTouch could change rumble technology]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/how-vivitouch-could-change-rumble-technology/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/how-vivitouch-could-change-rumble-technology/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/how-vivitouch-could-change-rumble-technology/#comments So touchy
Rumble technology is something that we often take for granted. The simple vibration technology has been built into most video game controllers for several years now and, for many, what was once a novelty in the N64 days is now a foregone conclusion that we often don't even notice. Indeed, often the only moment I notice my controller rumbling is when I set it on the coffee table to grab a drink, only to hear it loudly clatter during a cutscene.

By and large, rumble hasn't changed very much over the years, and generally relies on simple motors. Now, Artificial Muscle, a subsidiary of Bayer MaterialScience - no relation to Aperture Science, as far as we know - has created ViviTouch, and introduced a new wrinkle in rumble technology: Fidelity.

Continue reading How ViviTouch could change rumble technology

JoystiqHow ViviTouch could change rumble technology originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artificial-muscleartificial-muscle-incperipheralstgs-2011vivi-touchvivitouchTue, 27 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Hands-on with the Razer Arcade Stick]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/video-hands-on-with-the-razer-arcade-stick/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/video-hands-on-with-the-razer-arcade-stick/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/video-hands-on-with-the-razer-arcade-stick/#comments Stick!
Just after Razer announced its upcoming arcade joystick, we managed to get our hands on it at TGS. The verdict so far: It's pretty slick. The prototype I used featured Sanwa parts, though Razer is attempting to accommodate "as many brands as possible" in the final model, which is hopefully good news for those who prefer HAPP/IL sticks (like me). The real kicker, however, is the ability to crack open the case by simply pressing the Razer logo at the base of the stick.

Well, it's not that simple. It takes quite a bit of pressure, since you don't want to accidentally open the case during a fight. Once open, all the innards are completely accessible, allowing for very simple modding (no soldering required here). The inside of the case also includes storage for extra parts, meaning you can carry both a ball top and a bat top for the joystick at all times.

The inside also includes a tool that can be used to remove the top plate, a plastic panel that rests atop a solid metal layer underneath. The matte black plate can be replaced with a clear plate, allowing modders to insert their own artwork underneath if desired. Overall, it seems like a very well made, solid piece of kit that could possibly open up the otherwise daunting world of joystick customization to a much wider audience.

Check out a quick hands-on video above and some pictures in the gallery below.

Gallery: Hands-on: Razer Arcade Stick (TGS 2011)

JoystiqVideo: Hands-on with the Razer Arcade Stick originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftperipheralsrazerrazer-arcade-sticktgs-2011xboxFri, 16 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Razer building Xbox 360 arcade stick, with help from people who know arcade sticks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/razer-building-xbox-360-arcade-stick-with-help-from-people-who/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/razer-building-xbox-360-arcade-stick-with-help-from-people-who/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/razer-building-xbox-360-arcade-stick-with-help-from-people-who/#comments Razer, which just expanded into the luxury laptop market, is also trying its hand at arcade sticks. During TGS, it announced what is likely its most Japan-focused product: an Xbox 360 stick being designed with input from pro fighting gamers and other "community" members.

The concept is actually a "closed beta," launching at TGS, in which modders and fighting game enthusiasts will be given sticks and asked to provide feedback and improvements. The prototype of the stick shows that Razer's already on the right track -- it's hinged, and can be opened up easily for modding. Check out the prototype in the gallery below while we to try to go mess with the hardware in person at TGS.

And if you're skeptical about Razer being able to pull off an arcade stick, think about how you felt the first time you heard that Mad Catz was doing it.

Gallery: Razer Xbox 360 Arcade Stick prototype

Continue reading Razer building Xbox 360 arcade stick, with help from people who know arcade sticks

JoystiqRazer building Xbox 360 arcade stick, with help from people who know arcade sticks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickfightingmicrosoftperipheralsrazertgs-2011xboxThu, 15 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz Street Fighter X Tekken sticks up for pre-order at $160]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/mad-catz-street-fighter-x-tekken-sticks-up-for-pre-order-at-160/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/mad-catz-street-fighter-x-tekken-sticks-up-for-pre-order-at-160/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/mad-catz-street-fighter-x-tekken-sticks-up-for-pre-order-at-160/#comments QCF fierce After we got our hands on Mad Catz' Street Fighter X Tekken controllers earlier this year, and now the company has made them official. So far, the only controllers to be revealed are the FightStick PRO joysticks we saw at E3, though presumably the line will also include FightPads and possibly less professional sticks.

Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of the FightStick PRO are currently available for pre-order at $160 each. A release date wasn't announced, though Spring 2012 is probably a pretty good bet.

Continue reading Mad Catz Street Fighter X Tekken sticks up for pre-order at $160

JoystiqMad Catz Street Fighter X Tekken sticks up for pre-order at $160 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mad-catzmicrosoftperipheralsplaystationps3street-fighter-x-tekkenxboxThu, 25 Aug 2011 23:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Razer launching accessories for Battlefield 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/razer-launching-accessories-for-battlefield-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/razer-launching-accessories-for-battlefield-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/razer-launching-accessories-for-battlefield-3/#comments Razer mouse
Razer has announced a new line of products to accompany the launch of Battlefield 3 later this year. For PC players, there's the BlackWidow Ultimate keyboard, which features backlit keys, macro keys and a USB passthrough, among other things. PC users also get the Imperator mouse, which features programmable buttons and a 6400dpi 4G Dual Sensor System, which is a lot of dpis, if you ask us. Finally, there's a mouse pad that features a "fractal 2.0 surface coating" and also, we're guessing, a conveniently flat shape. The keyboard, mouse and pad will be available for $140, $80 and $40 repsectively.

Meanwhile, on the console side of things, the Xbox gets a Battlefield 3 edition of the Onza Tournament Edition controller, complete with analog sticks with adjustable resistance. The Onza will run $60. Finally, Razer shifts from gaming accessories to personal accessories with a Battlefield 3 iPhone case and messenger bag for $20 and $80, respectively.

The entire Battlefield line is expected to launch alongside the game on October 25. Check out the gallery below for entirely too many images.

Gallery: Razer Battlefield 3 accessories

Continue reading Razer launching accessories for Battlefield 3

JoystiqRazer launching accessories for Battlefield 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbattlefield-3microsoftpcperipheralsrazerxboxFri, 19 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth, Remote with Live TV button coming this November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/new-xbox-360-wireless-headset-with-bluetooth-remote-with-live-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/new-xbox-360-wireless-headset-with-bluetooth-remote-with-live-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/new-xbox-360-wireless-headset-with-bluetooth-remote-with-live-t/#comments It's generally accepted that while Microsoft may excel at creating software and platforms, it struggles with hardware. Just ask anyone that's replaced an Xbox 360 (that's just about everyone, right?). Also on that list: The original Xbox 360 Wireless Headset and the barebones Media Remote.

That's why we think you'll be excited to learn that Redmond is replacing both products with newly designed (and enhanced!) versions. The Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth will be available in "early November 2011" worldwide for $60, a $10 premium over the existing headset. In exchange for that $10, you'll get Bluetooth support, so you can use the headset with other devices, like cell phones and your PlayStation 3. It still connects to the Xbox 360 "through the console's standard radio frequencies," so it remains to be seen if audio quality will remain a problem.

Also available in early November is the new Xbox 360 Media Remote, for $20. While it doesn't offer a ton of improvements over the original, outside of the shiny new look, there is one notable addition: "Live TV, if provided on the Xbox 360 by your TV service provider, can also be controlled with the Xbox 360 Media Remote." While the original Xbox Media Remote also had a "Live TV" button, it accessed the console's Windows Media Center extender functionality; notably, the entire Media Center button has been removed. More likely, this button provides instant access to the still-mysterious live TV service announced at E3. We've asked Microsoft to clarify.

For now, soak in the pictures in the gallery below, and watch Major Nelson show off the headset in the video past the break.

Gallery: New Xbox 360 Wireless Headset and Remote

Continue reading New Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth, Remote with Live TV button coming this November

JoystiqNew Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth, Remote with Live TV button coming this November originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothheadsetmicrosoftperipheralsxboxTue, 26 Jul 2011 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 headsets coming from Turtle Beach with custom audio presets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3-headsets-coming-from-turtle-beach/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3-headsets-coming-from-turtle-beach/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3-headsets-coming-from-turtle-beach/#comments Gaming headset outfit Turtle Beach has snagged itself the exclusive license for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 headsets and it's planning on taking full advantage of that license by shipping not one but four MW3-themed 'sets this October, in advance of the game's November 8 release. In addition to the normal branding (see above: logos!) some of the Turtle Beach headsets will distinguish themselves in one key way: They come with custom MW3 presets, designed by the teams at Infinity Ward and Sledgehammer Games. Want an audio preset that makes it really easy to hear footsteps? We're guessing that's in there.

The Ear Force Delta is targeting console gamers with a a wireless headset, Bluetooth chat (with XBA adapter for Xbox 360), an MW3 carrying case, the aforementioned presets, and a $300 asking price. The Bravo wireless headset comes with the same presets as the Delta and a much lower $150 price tag. The Charlie wired headset is MW3 "optimized" but there's no mention of custom audio presets in this one. At $130, you'll save a whopping $20 on this PC-focused headset. Lastly, the Foxtrot is another "optimized" headset, packing "several key features to set it apart." Since they're not saying, we're guessing that its $100 price tag is one of the most notable features.

Turtle Beach is promising more info leading up to the launch of the headsets but, until then, you can take a look at the four units just after the break, or find the high-resolution versions in our gallery.

Gallery: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (Turtle Beach Ear Force headsets)

Continue reading Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 headsets coming from Turtle Beach with custom audio presets

JoystiqCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 headsets coming from Turtle Beach with custom audio presets originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-modern-warfare-3headsetsinfinity-wardlicensedmodern-warfare-3peripheralssledgehammer-gamesturtle-beachTue, 19 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nyko Zoom blows up your Kinect space on Aug. 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/nyko-zoom-blows-up-your-kinect-space-on-aug-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/nyko-zoom-blows-up-your-kinect-space-on-aug-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/nyko-zoom-blows-up-your-kinect-space-on-aug-23/#comments 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.

JoystiqNyko 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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftnykonyko-zoomperipheralsrelease-datexboxzoom-for-kinectWed, 06 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Adroit' controller line to make games more accessible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/adroit-controller-line-to-make-games-more-accessible/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/adroit-controller-line-to-make-games-more-accessible/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/adroit-controller-line-to-make-games-more-accessible/#comments Evil Controllers, a company that augments controllers by adding LED lights, d-pad upgrades, auto-fire and other extra capabilities, has announced a plan that we can't find evil no matter how much we look. It's working with the AbleGamers Foundation to design accessible peripherals for disabled gamers.

The "Adroit" line of controllers is intended to enhance accessibility at an affordable cost. "The problem with equipment currently available to help the disabled community get into videogames is that it often costs way more than someone on disability can afford," AbleGamers.com EIC Steve Spohn said in the announcement. "These controllers will be higher quality with lower cost. What's not to love?"

AbleGamers and Evil Controllers haven't released specifics about the Adroit line yet, mentioning only that it " will include all of the fan favorite features available on Evil Controllers mods". More information about the first releases will be divulged "within the next few weeks," according to the press release. In the meantime, feel free to be thoroughly teased by the video after the break.

Continue reading 'Adroit' controller line to make games more accessible

Joystiq'Adroit' controller line to make games more accessible originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ablegamersablegamers-foundationaccessibilityadroitcontrollercontrollersevil-controllersmicrosoftperipheralsplaystationps3xboxFri, 24 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hori PS3 controller has rotating D-pad, so many other options]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/new-hori-ps3-controller-has-rotating-d-pad-so-many-other-option/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/new-hori-ps3-controller-has-rotating-d-pad-so-many-other-option/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/new-hori-ps3-controller-has-rotating-d-pad-so-many-other-option/#comments Peripheral maker Hori put a countdown page on its site leading to the reveal of an exciting mystery product ... and it's a new PS3 controller! Maybe the Hori Pad 3 Pro isn't the dramatic reveal we expected, but it looks like a pretty nice device.

The Hori Pad 3 Pro builds on previous Hori controller offerings with a d-pad that can be rotated to provide the most comfortable position, as well as customizable d-pad input range. We don't really understand how that last one works, though it seems to involve setting the range between two directions at which a diagonal input is registered.

It also features customizable analog stick sensitivity, three levels of turbo fire with a quick activation button on the back of the controller ... and, unfortunately, a wire. The Horipad Pro will be released in Japan on July 21. Odds are pretty good you'll be able to get one soon after; Amazon stocks previous Hori Pad variants.

JoystiqNew Hori PS3 controller has rotating D-pad, so many other options originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerhorihori-pad-3japanperipheralsplaystationps3Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[These are the Old Republic Razer peripherals you're looking for]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/these-are-the-old-republic-razer-peripherals-youre-looking-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/these-are-the-old-republic-razer-peripherals-youre-looking-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/these-are-the-old-republic-razer-peripherals-youre-looking-for/#comments Razer has announced that it will be producing four peripherals tailored for Star Wars: The Old Republic. The peripherals come packing the (ahem) sharp design that Razer is known for, along with a few slick technical features. The neatest of the bunch is the keyboard, which features a multi-touch LCD panel with a set of adaptive keys similar to those seen on the Razer Switchblade device. The backlit keys can even be converted to the Star Wars language of Aurebesh, which is neat, if not exactly useful.

The SWTOR Gaming Mouse features seventeen programmable buttons, twelve of which rest directly under the thumb. A 5.1 surround sound headset is also in the works. Finally, there's the mouse pad, which features "performance-grade" surfaces and a "non-slip, anti-reflective, abrasion-resistant hard coating." Presumably, you can drag a mouse on it real good. All can be customized to show either the Sith or Republic faction insignia as well.

The mouse and headset will run for $130, while the keyboard will command a hefty $200 price. If you just need something Old Republic, the mouse pad is the cheapest option at $50 but, then again, it's a mouse pad. All the peripherals will be available when The Old Republic launches, which remains as much of a mystery to Razer as it does to everyone else.

Check out pics of the hardware in the gallery below and a trailer after the break.

Gallery: Razer Star Wars: The Old Republic Gaming Gear (Hardware)

Continue reading These are the Old Republic Razer peripherals you're looking for

JoystiqThese are the Old Republic Razer peripherals you're looking for originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2011eahardwarepcperipheralsrazerStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicWed, 08 Jun 2011 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Batarang controllers you deserve, but not the ones you need]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/the-batarang-controllers-you-deserve-but-not-the-ones-you-need/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/the-batarang-controllers-you-deserve-but-not-the-ones-you-need/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/the-batarang-controllers-you-deserve-but-not-the-ones-you-need/#comments Where does he get those wonderful toys? From any retailer that carries Power A controllers, this fall. The peripheral manufacturer has announced a Batman: Arkham City-themed "Batarang" controller for both Xbox 360 and PS3, which allows you to pretend you're playing games on the specialized Bat-style game console you know Batman keeps in the cave.

Both versions feature LED accents, that can light up in seven different colors. The PS3 version is wireless (with a receiver), with an internal rechargeable battery and motion sensors, and reversed analog stick placement. The Xbox version is wired, but comes with a 10-foot-long cable that may or may not allow the device to be used as a grappling hook.

Gallery: Power A Batarang Controllers

JoystiqThe Batarang controllers you deserve, but not the ones you need originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batarangbatmanBatman-Arkham-Asylum-2Batman-Arkham-Citycontrollermicrosoftperipheralsplaystationps3xboxFri, 03 Jun 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent points at PlayStation Move-compatible PSP Go dock]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/patent-points-at-playstation-move-compatible-psp-go-dock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/patent-points-at-playstation-move-compatible-psp-go-dock/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/patent-points-at-playstation-move-compatible-psp-go-dock/#comments A patent filed by Sony back in November 2009 (and recently published) with the USPTO seems to indicate that the company was once exploring methods of integrating its colorfully-tipped Move controllers into its handheld video games. The patent in question is for a dock which, in an attached illustration, fits a folded-shut PSP Go. The dock includes a built-in camera which functions like a PlayStation Eye, detecting Move controllers in a narrow radius in front of the dock.

If Sony's actually looking into developing this peripheral, it's far more likely that they're doing so for the NGP rather than the nearly-defunct PSP Go. If it is a real thing, though, it's definitely going to bring up some intriguing metaphysical questions. For instance: Is a handheld gaming device still a handheld gaming device when it's not hand-held?

JoystiqPatent points at PlayStation Move-compatible PSP Go dock originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 May 2011 21:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dockngppatentperipheralsplaystationplaystation-moveplaystation-vitapspsonyusptovitaMon, 23 May 2011 21:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperkin releasing its own 3DS battery-expanding attachment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/hyperkin-releasing-its-own-3ds-battery-expanding-attachment/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/hyperkin-releasing-its-own-3ds-battery-expanding-attachment/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/hyperkin-releasing-its-own-3ds-battery-expanding-attachment/#comments Yet another gaming peripheral manufacturer is getting into the 3DS battery life extension racket -- following in the footsteps of Nyko's Power Pak+, Hyperkin is planning to release a 3DS attachment this summer which promises to double the lifespan of the handheld. The battery, which attaches to the bottom of the device, also includes an improved grip and an LED indicator to show how much longer you can get your Nintendogs on before you need to recharge.

The Hyperkin PowerPlus battery attachment will ship sometime this summer for $19.99, the same price as Nyko's 3DS battery expander. You'll have to make your final choice based on form factor -- for instance, the Nyko battery seems to snap onto the back of the handheld, while the Hyperkin pack seems to give the 3DS a loving embrace. Only you can decide which one is right for you.

JoystiqHyperkin releasing its own 3DS battery-expanding attachment originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 May 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbatterydshyperkinnintendoperipheralsSun, 08 May 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CTA's latest creation: A translucent Kinect steering wheel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/ctas-latest-creation-a-translucent-kinect-steering-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/ctas-latest-creation-a-translucent-kinect-steering-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/ctas-latest-creation-a-translucent-kinect-steering-wheel/#comments Stop reading this right now, and put on a hat. Seriously. Grab the nearest bike helmet, fedora or beret, and slap it on your noggin. See, the latest CTA Digital product is going to make your brain explode, and clean-up is going to be way easier if you enclose your domepiece beforehand. Ready? It is a steering wheel peripheral for Kinect, designed for people with a penchant for driving games and, like, zero imagination.

Best of all, the $13 apparatus is totally translucent, meaning it won't obstruct your view of all the virtual driving you'll be doing. And maybe, just maybe, if you're very lucky, its transparentness will make it easier to hide the fact that you just spent $13 on an invisible steering wheel for your make-believe space car from your concerned family and friends.

JoystiqCTA's latest creation: A translucent Kinect steering wheel originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 May 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cta-digitaldrivingmicrosoftperipheralssteering-wheelxboxSat, 07 May 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Who-autographed Rock Band guitar controllers auctioned for Teenage Cancer Trust]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-who-autographed-rock-band-guitar-controllers-auctioned-for-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-who-autographed-rock-band-guitar-controllers-auctioned-for-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-who-autographed-rock-band-guitar-controllers-auctioned-for-t/#comments Prolific peripheral manufacturer Mad Catz has again teamed with The Who frontman Roger Daltrey to support the Teenage Cancer Trust -- and this time they've gotten Pete Townshend to leave his mark on this unique charity event. Both legendary rock gods have signed a pair of Mad Catz's Wireless Wooden Fender Stratocaster controllers (no strings attached) for Xbox 360 versions of Rock Band.

These cherry red rarities are up for auction on eBay -- one here and the other here -- until 9PM ET on Sunday, April 3. All proceeds will go to the UK-based Teenage Cancer Trust.

Okay, now can we get a YEEEEEEAAAHHH?!

JoystiqThe Who-autographed Rock Band guitar controllers auctioned for Teenage Cancer Trust originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncharitymad-catzmicrosoftperipheralspete-townshendrock-bandrock-band-3roger-daltreyteenage-cancer-trustthe-whoukxboxTue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PDP Mortal Kombat Fight Stick's secret compartments revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/pdp-mortal-kombat-fight-sticks-secret-compartments-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/pdp-mortal-kombat-fight-sticks-secret-compartments-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/pdp-mortal-kombat-fight-sticks-secret-compartments-revealed/#comments Wondering exactly what makes the PDP-designed "portable" fight stick that comes bundled with the $150 Tournament Edition of Mortal Kombat so darn "portable?" Check out the nooks and crannies of the device in the gallery below -- looks like it's got enough space to fit a small family of guinea pigs.

Continue reading PDP Mortal Kombat Fight Stick's secret compartments revealed

JoystiqPDP Mortal Kombat Fight Stick's secret compartments revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fight-stickmicrosoftmortal-kombat-2011pdpperipheralsplaystationps3xboxWed, 09 Mar 2011 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster video review: Going to town in a Lincoln]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster-video-review-going-to-town-in-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster-video-review-going-to-town-in-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster-video-review-going-to-town-in-a/#comments Though the cornucopia of Pro Guitar tutorials available on last year's Rock Band 3 possessed multitudes of promise, the absence of a solidly-built, authentic guitar controller squandered away my hopes of learning to more proficiently rock in the real world by taking lessons in a fake one. I've sustained myself over the past four months on the possibility that the MIDI-enabled Squier Stratocaster controller would capitalize on these possibilities. After spending a few hours with the axe, I'm happy to report that I wasn't disappointed.

Check out the video after the jump for the full scoop on the Rock Band 3 Squier, presented in a bold, groundbreaking audio-visual format. (How else could you be impressed by all my mad shredding skills, and my capacity for producing sweet, crunchy riffs?)

Continue reading Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster video review: Going to town in a Lincoln

JoystiqRock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster video review: Going to town in a Lincoln originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fendermicrosoftmusicnintendoperipheralsplaystationps3rock-bandRock-Band-3squiersquier-stratocasterwiixboxWed, 02 Mar 2011 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[MadCatz making Sims-branded peripherals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/madcatz-making-sims-branded-peripherals/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/madcatz-making-sims-branded-peripherals/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/madcatz-making-sims-branded-peripherals/#comments Just in time to capitalize on the Sims fever that's sweeping the nation, MadCatz has announced it will produce a line of accessories based on the life simulation series for pretty much every platform on the market (including 3DS).

There are no images or further details on the "wide range" of peripherals, but we'd really appreciate a time-saving controller equipped with a "have sex with all present" button and another macro-button for "lock character in room with no doors or windows until they defecate themselves to death, their last vision the stink lines emanating from their pre-corpse."

JoystiqMadCatz making Sims-branded peripherals originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaccessoriesdseamadcatzmicrosoftnintendopcperipheralsplaystationps3The-Sims-3wiixboxTue, 01 Mar 2011 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[You Rock guitar now compatible with Rock Band 3 Pro mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/you-rock-guitar-now-compatible-with-rock-band-3-pro-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/you-rock-guitar-now-compatible-with-rock-band-3-pro-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/you-rock-guitar-now-compatible-with-rock-band-3-pro-mode/#comments In addition to the Mad Catz Mustang guitar controller and the upcoming Fender Squier Stratocaster, there is now a third option for realistic shredding in Rock Band 3, thanks to a firmware update for You Rock Digital's You Rock guitar. The You Rock guitar is similar to the Mustang in that it has real strings for strumming, though they don't stretch along the full length of the guitar. Unlike the Mustang's many, many buttons, the You Rock features a touch-sensitive fret board. The You Rock also functions as a MIDI instrument and includes many built in sounds and effects.

Those wishing to use the You Rock for Rock Band 3 will need to download firmware 1.2 from the You Rock website. Like the Fender Squier, the You Rock requires the Mad Catz MIDI adapter for use with Rock Band 3. The guitar is compatible with all versions of the game and, in addition to pro mode, it can be used to play standard modes as well. That's what we call a two'fer.

JoystiqYou Rock guitar now compatible with Rock Band 3 Pro mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixmicrosoftnintendoperipheralsplaystationps3Rock-Band-3wiixboxyou-rockyou-rock-guitarThu, 24 Feb 2011 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest GAEMS travel case is well-made but poorly spelled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/20/latest-gaems-travel-case-is-well-made-but-poorly-spelled/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/20/latest-gaems-travel-case-is-well-made-but-poorly-spelled/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/20/latest-gaems-travel-case-is-well-made-but-poorly-spelled/#comments The latest game console travel case from manufacturer GAEMS -- yes, it's really spelled like that, we promise -- is an unarguably slicker offering than the company's previous products. The pack has room for a 360, 360 S or PS3 Slim console, all the requisite cords and power bricks, a couple of controllers, speakers and a built-in LED monitor -- yet, despite its contents, the GAEMS case isn't the size of a small houseboat. We've only got one, inconceivably nerdy explanation: Bag of Holding. Like, it's gotta be, right?

The case will be released sometime in June for $300 -- though you can knock $20 off the price by pre-ordering before April 20. We wonder if we could pay an extra $20 to get a product that's spelled correctly. Sheeeesh.

JoystiqLatest GAEMS travel case is well-made but poorly spelled originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casegaemsmicrosoftperipheralsplaystationps3travel-casexboxSun, 20 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Take an elongated look at PDP's Marvel Versus Fighting Pad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/take-an-elongated-look-at-pdps-mvc3-versus-fighting-pad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/take-an-elongated-look-at-pdps-mvc3-versus-fighting-pad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/take-an-elongated-look-at-pdps-mvc3-versus-fighting-pad/#comments If the upcoming Mad Catz Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Fight Sticks are a little too intimidating for you, Marvel and PDP have cooked up a much more diminutive option. The Marvel Edition Versus Fighting Pad comes packed with love-it-hate-it Marvel artwork, an arcade button layout and an elongated left ... erm ... prong(?) for more ergonomic digital pugilism. Furthermore, both the buttons and specially designed thumb pad operate using actual microswitch actuators -- the same kind you'd find in a real arcade cabinet.

The Versus pad is available for pre-order for $40 and is expected to arrive on February 14, making it the perfect last minute Valentine's Day gift for the nerd in your life. Only the Xbox 360 version of the pad has been announced, though a PS3 version may be released if the 360 pad does well. Check out an in-depth video of the Versus in action after the break.

Continue reading Take an elongated look at PDP's Marvel Versus Fighting Pad

JoystiqTake an elongated look at PDP's Marvel Versus Fighting Pad originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerMarvel-vs-Capcom-3Marvel-vs-Capcom-3-Fate-of-Two-WorldsmicrosoftpdpperipheralsxboxMon, 07 Feb 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Finally, an arcade stick for the fashion-conscious]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/finally-an-arcade-stick-for-the-fashion-conscious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/finally-an-arcade-stick-for-the-fashion-conscious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/finally-an-arcade-stick-for-the-fashion-conscious/#commentsAre arcade sticks too gaudy and affordable for you? You're the target audience for the utterly implausible "Hoon vs. Neo Legend" arcade stick, designed by Hoon, a Parisian jewelry and leather clothing company, in collaboration with the "arcade shop" Neo Legend. The stick is built by hand out of "lacquered oak wood and corners cased in ostrich leather" and contains hardware made by trusted Japanese arcade parts company Sanwa Denshi. It's designed for PS3, Xbox 360 and PC.

The sticks will be available both from the Neo Legend store and from Hoon's website on February 18. If you have so much money that you can confidently buy electronics from a fashion designer without knowing the price, Hoon is currently accepting pre-orders by email request. And for the rest of you, we've inquired as to the price -- and we'll be sure to share the shocking news when it comes in.

Gallery: Hoon Neo Legend joystick (PC, Xbox 360, PS3)


[Thanks, David]

JoystiqFinally, an arcade stick for the fashion-conscious originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickfashionhoonhoon-vs-neo-legendjoystickmicrosoftneo-legendpcperipheralsplaystationps3xboxWed, 02 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz to produce wireless 360 headphones for Microsoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/mad-catz-to-produce-wireless-360-headphones-for-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/mad-catz-to-produce-wireless-360-headphones-for-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/mad-catz-to-produce-wireless-360-headphones-for-microsoft/#comments Mad Catz has announced that it's partnering with Microsoft to produce the first "wireless, licensed and co-branded headphones" for the Xbox 360. The headphones will be manufactured under the Tritton brand and will come in both stereo and Dolby 5.1 varieties. They should hit the shelves in time for the 2011 holiday season.

The press release is short on other details, though hopefully the headphones will pack Microsoft's proprietary wireless tech, allowing them to circumvent the cumbersome setup required by Tritton's current 360 compatible headsets. Like, if the new headsets don't have two AC adapters, that would be great.

Continue reading Mad Catz to produce wireless 360 headphones for Microsoft

JoystiqMad Catz to produce wireless 360 headphones for Microsoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesheadphonesheadsetmad-catzmicrosoftperipheralstrittonwirelessxboxWed, 02 Feb 2011 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel vs. Capcom 3 FightSticks shipping in time for the game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fightsticks-shipping-in-time-for-the-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fightsticks-shipping-in-time-for-the-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/marvel-vs-capcom-3-fightsticks-shipping-in-time-for-the-game/#commentsChances are, a lot of people will be looking to buy an arcade stick with Marvel vs. Capcom 3 next week. Mad Catz, anticipating this obvious interest, is producing one just for such an occasion.

The "Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Arcade FightStick Tournament Edition" keeps the hardware design and Sanwa Denshi brand arcade components from previous Street Fighter IV Tournament Edition FightSticks and adds new, surprisingly restrained Marvel vs. Capcom 3 artwork to the top panel of the stick. Like the most recent iterations of the FightStick, it also includes a locking mechanism to prevent accidental use of the turbo switches.

5,000 MvC3 FightSticks are being produced and will be available from Mad Catz's online store. No price has been named, but previous Tournament Edition sticks have retailed for around $150.

Gallery: Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Tournament Edition FightStick (Xbox 360/PS3)

Continue reading Marvel vs. Capcom 3 FightSticks shipping in time for the game

JoystiqMarvel vs. Capcom 3 FightSticks shipping in time for the game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fightstickmad-catzMarvel-vs-Capcom-3Marvel-vs-Capcom-3-Fate-of-Two-Worldsmicrosoftperipheralsplaystationps3xboxTue, 01 Feb 2011 21:40:00 EST<![CDATA['Pokemon Typing DS' comes with Bluetooth keyboard]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/pokemon-typing-ds-comes-with-bluetooth-keyboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/pokemon-typing-ds-comes-with-bluetooth-keyboard/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/pokemon-typing-ds-comes-with-bluetooth-keyboard/#commentsWhen Battle & Get: Pokemon Typing DS was first revealed during last year's Nintendo Conference, we figured "players" would have to use their styli on an on-screen soft keyboard in order to type out pokémon names. But, of course, that would have been exceedingly silly.

Instead, the typing tutor title will ship with a Bluetooth keyboard that connects to the DS through the Bluetooth-equipped game cartridge. This new peripheral isn't entirely ridiculous (maybe like 90 percent ridiculous) -- according to Nintendo president Satoru Iwata, the prototype keyboard connects to iPhone and Android devices just fine, though Nintendo won't guarantee such compatibility. But if you've been asking for a Nintendo-designed Bluetooth keyboard, here you go!

Would-be pokémon typists will be able to Battle & Get the game and keyboard (its exact size is unknown) in Japan this April. A release outside of Japan has not been announced.

Joystiq'Pokemon Typing DS' comes with Bluetooth keyboard originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbattle-and-get-pokemon-typing-dsbluetoothdsjapankeyboardnintendoperipheralstypingFri, 28 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blaze announces its own Move gun attachment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/blaze-announces-its-own-move-gun-attachment/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/blaze-announces-its-own-move-gun-attachment/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/blaze-announces-its-own-move-gun-attachment/#comments You know what they say: You can never have too many gun-shaped peripherals in which to dock your PlayStation Move controller, unless, of course, you already have two, in which case, you do in fact have too many. (Trust us, people say that all the time.) However, assuming you haven't already indulged in one of the Move gun attachments already on the market, you may want to take a look at Blaze's recently revealed stab shot at violence-ing the peripheral.

As you can see by the product image above, it's replaced the sci-fi blaster feel of Sony's first-party gun attachment with a slightly more realistic pistol motif. Well, there's still a huge, colorful ball at the end of the whole production, which we're pretty sure real guns don't have. Regardless, this bad boy will arrive next month at British retailers for an asking price of £9.99.

Continue reading Blaze announces its own Move gun attachment

JoystiqBlaze announces its own Move gun attachment originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attachmentblazegunperipheralsplaystationplaystation-moveps3Fri, 21 Jan 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ThinkGeek slaps a joystick on the iPad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/thinkgeek-slaps-a-joystick-on-the-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/thinkgeek-slaps-a-joystick-on-the-ipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/thinkgeek-slaps-a-joystick-on-the-ipad/#comments If that pseudo-analog nubbin didn't satisfy your touchscreen gaming needs, ThinkGeek has revealed its own "Joystick-It" arcade stick attachment for the iPad. The aluminum stick will go on sale for $25 at the end of the month. See it action after the break.

Continue reading ThinkGeek slaps a joystick on the iPad

JoystiqThinkGeek slaps a joystick on the iPad originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipadjoystickjoystick-itmobileperipheralsthinkgeekWed, 12 Jan 2011 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video demonstration makes sense of N-Control Avenger]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/n-control-avenger-video-demonstration/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/n-control-avenger-video-demonstration/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/n-control-avenger-video-demonstration/#commentsRemember that Xbox 360 controller attachment that turns your gamepad into a monstrous tangle of levers? Engadget met up with creator N-Control during CES, capturing just what the Avenger thing is on video.

After the break, see how the Avenger uses an elaborate, Mouse Trap-style arrangement to allow access to all of the controller's buttons without moving your thumbs off of the sticks -- ostensibly saving you valuable milliseconds of reaction time. Of course, the adapter requires several minutes of explanation, so perhaps it's a wash.

Continue reading Video demonstration makes sense of N-Control Avenger

JoystiqVideo demonstration makes sense of N-Control Avenger originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesces-2011microsoftn-controln-control-avengerperipheralsxboxMon, 10 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad occupies new quarters in iCade arcade cabinet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/ipad-occupies-new-quarters-in-icade-arcade-cabinet/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/ipad-occupies-new-quarters-in-icade-arcade-cabinet/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/ipad-occupies-new-quarters-in-icade-arcade-cabinet/#comments Know what your desk, coffee table or car dashboard needs? The iCade. That is if you have an iPad and want a (very) small arcade cabinet to stick it in. Built by ION for internet nerd wares vendor ThinkGeek, the iCade features a special iPad cradle designed to not scuff your precious tablet, along with a ball-top joystick and eight concave buttons.

If you have the money, space and understanding loved ones to spare, you can pre-order the iCade for $99 from ThinkGeek. Shipments begin this spring and include the iCade app, a front-end for (initially) a handful of Atari classics, such as Asteroids, with the promise of more to come. The iCade API is also being provided to iOS devs free of charge, so here's hoping the likes of Cave release updates to make their games compatible with this inspired add-on.

JoystiqiPad occupies new quarters in iCade arcade cabinet originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesapplearcadeiarcadeionmobileperipheralsretrothinkgeekMon, 10 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Razer bringing Onza 'professional' controllers to 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/razer-bringing-onza-professional-controllers-to-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/razer-bringing-onza-professional-controllers-to-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/razer-bringing-onza-professional-controllers-to-360/#comments Should you find yourself of the opinion that your Xbox 360 controller isn't precise or extreme enough, then please pay particular attention to the following sentence: Razer has announced that its Onza line of Xbox 360 controllers will be available for pre-order beginning January 17. The standard Onza, featuring backlit "Hyperesponse" face buttons, an improved d-pad and two extra programmable shoulder buttons, was actually announced way back in 2010.

Now the company has also revealed the Onza Tournament Edition, which includes all the "standard" features plus analog sticks with adjustable resistance. Both controllers are also wired because, you know, lag is for jerks. The standard Onza will sell for $40, while the Tournament Edition will set back the real professionals $50.

Gallery: Razer Onza 360 controllers (1/6/10)

Continue reading Razer bringing Onza 'professional' controllers to 360

JoystiqRazer bringing Onza 'professional' controllers to 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllermicrosoftonzaperipheralsrazerxboxThu, 06 Jan 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lenovo turns your laptop into a far less portable arcade machine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/lenovo-turns-your-laptop-into-a-far-less-portable-arcade-machine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/lenovo-turns-your-laptop-into-a-far-less-portable-arcade-machine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/lenovo-turns-your-laptop-into-a-far-less-portable-arcade-machine/#comments Technabob has spied a delightful (not so) little laptop case mod from Lenovo during a CES preview. Designed by modder Dean Liou, the case allows you to turn your adequately sized laptop into an arcade machine in seconds, by sliding it underneath the dock's fight stick controller, and plugging said controller into your computer's USB port. Sadly, Lenovo is just showing off the dock as a proof of concept -- as of right now, there are no plans to take the mod to market.

Sure, this thing would completely eliminate the portability of your lap-sized computer, but, come on. Look at it! It's like an arcade machine for babies. Could you imagine anything cuter than that? Well, an arcade machine for puppies, we guess -- but modern consumer entertainment hardware science is decades away from perfecting that kinda technology. For now, check out a video demonstration of this human laptop arcade mod posted after the jump.

Continue reading Lenovo turns your laptop into a far less portable arcade machine

JoystiqLenovo turns your laptop into a far less portable arcade machine originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadearcade-stickcase-modces-2011lenovomodpcperipheralsWed, 05 Jan 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Engineering blog explains how Kinect works]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/xbox-engineering-blog-explains-how-kinect-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/xbox-engineering-blog-explains-how-kinect-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/xbox-engineering-blog-explains-how-kinect-works/#comments So, remember all those times that you asked us how the Kinect manages to identify your human form and adapt it into an in-game Avatar? Remember how we told you that it did so with "robot magic?" We may have been a little off-base with that one -- the Xbox Engineering blog recently posted a full explanation of the all-seeing eye's actual inner workings in a manner simplistic enough for even technophobic cavemen such as ourselves to understand.

The post also gives a little insight into the trial-and-error development of Kinect. It sounds like it was a pretty fascinating process -- though apparently the dev team didn't even think to incorporate robot magic, which, in our opinion, seems like a pretty major oversight.

JoystiqXbox Engineering blog explains how Kinect works originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developmentkinectmicrosoftmotion-controlperipheralsxboxxbox-engineeringWed, 05 Jan 2011 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[A serious unboxing of Thrustmaster's official GT5 racing wheel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/thrustmaster-gt5-racing-wheel-unboxing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/thrustmaster-gt5-racing-wheel-unboxing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/thrustmaster-gt5-racing-wheel-unboxing/#comments Inside Sim Racing does not mess around. When the site got its hands on what it says is one of the first Thrustmaster T500RS units in the US (a.k.a. the official Gran Turismo 5 racing wheel), it made this epic unboxing video. Carrying a $600 price tag [Ed.'s note: Not a typo!], the peripheral is expected to ship in North America and Europe on January 5 ... which, coincidentally, is when this blogger's car payment, less than half the price of the T500RS, is due.

[Thanks, Chris]

Continue reading A serious unboxing of Thrustmaster's official GT5 racing wheel

JoystiqA serious unboxing of Thrustmaster's official GT5 racing wheel originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gran-Turismo-5peripheralsplaystationps3racing-wheelsonyThrustmasterThrustmaster-T500RSunboxingMon, 03 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST