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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA['WiiPop' dance game hacks Wiimotes and Kinect into unlikely tryst]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/wiipop-dance-game-hacks-wiimotes-and-kinect-into-unlikely-trys/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/wiipop-dance-game-hacks-wiimotes-and-kinect-into-unlikely-trys/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/wiipop-dance-game-hacks-wiimotes-and-kinect-into-unlikely-trys/#comments Image
Whether by choice or by force, chances are good you've experienced a dancing game by now. Typically, these games ask users to mimic dance moves for points, but WiiPop, created by one Christian "Mio" Loclair, is completely freestyle.

The game achieves this feat by incorporating both body-mounted Wii remotes and the Kinect. Used together, the devices measure how a user moves throughout the dance space and how he or she "pops" to the beat. It's all very amazing and complex and, as such, we suggest you watch the video above for the full rundown.

Joystiq'WiiPop' dance game hacks Wiimotes and Kinect into unlikely tryst originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackskinectmicrosoftmodsnintendowiiwii-remotewiipopxboxWed, 18 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Club Nintendo updates with Kirby patches, Mario wrist straps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/club-nintendo-updates-with-kirby-patches-mario-wrist-straps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/club-nintendo-updates-with-kirby-patches-mario-wrist-straps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/club-nintendo-updates-with-kirby-patches-mario-wrist-straps/#commentsClub Nintendo has a few new bonuses available in its shop, just in case you happen to have a sudden influx of new Nintendo games, and therefore Club Nintendo Coins, in the next couple of weeks.

For 350 Coins, you can get one of two sets of adorable adhesive Kirby's Epic Yarn patches, featuring either Saucer and Off-Roader Kirby, or regular-style Kirby and Prince Fluff. Or, for 450 Coins, you can get a set of four New Super Mario Bros. Wii-themed Wii Remote straps, each one representing one of the four playable characters.

In other Club Nintendo news, the fans, messenger bags and tote bags are back in stock. Hurry!

Gallery: Club Nintendo December 2010 update

JoystiqClub Nintendo updates with Kirby patches, Mario wrist straps originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>club-nintendokirbys-epic-yarnnew-super-mario-bros-wiinintendopatcheswiiwii-remotewrist-strapWed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: 65.3 million Wiimotes sold in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/nintendo-65-3-million-wiimotes-sold-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/nintendo-65-3-million-wiimotes-sold-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/nintendo-65-3-million-wiimotes-sold-in-us/#commentsNintendo announced an unusual statistic today: 65.3 million Wii Remotes have been sold in the US since the system's 2006 launch. That includes the 30.41 million Wiimotes included in system bundles sold in the country to date (according to NPD data gathered by Nintendo), along with the 12.92 million controllers sold in Wii Play bundles.

Of the standalone Wiimotes, the white model has sold by far the most, at 18.56 million -- which makes sense, given it was the only option for the first three years of the system's availability. The black Wiimote, introduced in November 2009, has sold 2.44 million units; while the pink and blue versions released on Valentine's Day 2010 have sold 467,500 and 465,200 units, respectively.

They will all be obsolete on November 7.

JoystiqNintendo: 65.3 million Wiimotes sold in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllershardwarenintendonpdperipheralssaleswiiWii-Playwii-remotewiimoteMon, 25 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Power A constructs the Lego Play and Build Wii Remote]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/power-a-constructs-the-lego-play-and-build-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/power-a-constructs-the-lego-play-and-build-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/power-a-constructs-the-lego-play-and-build-wii-remote/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've seen Wii Remotes of all shapes, sizes and colors, but peripheral manufacturer Power A has managed to break the mold once again by offering a controller made entirely of pure imagination. And also plastic and machinery and stuff -- but mostly pure imagination. The Lego Play and Build Wii Remote allows its handler to affix 31 included bricks to its surface, completely customizing its hull, though we imagine users could also attach thousands of Lego to the controller, turning it into a monstrous, unwieldy Wii Monolith.

The controller, which is now shipping to Toys R' Us at a $39.99 price point, is compatible with Wii MotionPlus, as well as most other first- and third-party accoutrements. It is not, however, compatible with K'Nex, Tinker Toys, Lincoln Logs, Erector Sets or Duplo bricks.

Continue reading Power A constructs the Lego Play and Build Wii Remote

JoystiqPower A constructs the Lego Play and Build Wii Remote originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerlegonintendoperipheralspower-awiiwii-remoteThu, 14 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Remote Plus dated for Japan, bundled with Wii Sports Resort]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/wii-remote-plus-dated-for-japan-bundled-with-wii-sports-resort/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/wii-remote-plus-dated-for-japan-bundled-with-wii-sports-resort/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/wii-remote-plus-dated-for-japan-bundled-with-wii-sports-resort/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Wii Remote Plus, which almost unimaginably crams MotionPlus tech into a standard-sized Wiimote, has been dated and priced for Japan. The controller will be released on November 11 for ¥3,800 ($46) -- the same price as the normal Wiimote -- and will be available in five colors: white, black, blue, red and pink. A red Nunchuk will be released, as well.

The old Wiimote will ostensibly be phased out, as Nintendo will also begin bundling the Wiimote Plus with Wii systems on the same day. Additionally, Andriasang reports that the Wii Sports Resort bundle, which originally included the MotionPlus attachment, will feature the Wiimote Plus beginning on -- you guessed it -- November 11. The bundle will retail for ¥5,800 ($70).

JoystiqWii Remote Plus dated for Japan, bundled with Wii Sports Resort originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japannintendoperipheralspricingrelease-datewiiwii-motionpluswii-remotewii-remote-pluswii-sports-resortwii-sports-resort-bundlewiimoteThu, 07 Oct 2010 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata confirms Wii Remote Plus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/iwata-confirms-wii-remote-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/iwata-confirms-wii-remote-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/iwata-confirms-wii-remote-plus/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata confirmed that the company is indeed developing the Wii Remote Plus, integrating Wii MotionPlus into a much handier all-in-one design. No release details, but FlingSmash hits Japan on November 18 and the device has been spotted as a pack-in with the game Stateside.

JoystiqIwata confirms Wii Remote Plus originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flingsmashhardwaremotionplusnintendonintendo-conference-2010Satoru-Iwatawiiwii-motionpluswii-remotewii-remote-plusWed, 29 Sep 2010 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Donkey Kong Country Returns pre-order bonus is a-peel-ing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/donkey-kong-country-returns-pre-order-bonus-is-a-peel-ing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/donkey-kong-country-returns-pre-order-bonus-is-a-peel-ing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/donkey-kong-country-returns-pre-order-bonus-is-a-peel-ing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So, here's the problem: We're big fans of the recently revealed pre-order bonus for Donkey Kong Country Returns, but we don't really know what to call it. Everything we've come up with so far has been way, way too suggestive: Banana dock? Banana holder? Banana sheath? The official GameStop announcement refers to it as a "banana pouch," but even that hits the ear in a manner which causes our inner eight-year-old to flare up with tittering.

Until we can settle on an appropriate name, we'll simply have to refer to it as a Tropical Fruited Wii Remote Cover. The T.F.W.R.C. can be yours by dropping a five-spot on a reservation for Donkey Kong Country Returns at GameStop, either online or in your nearest brick-and-mortar locale.

Now, how do we feel about "banana holster?"

JoystiqDonkey Kong Country Returns pre-order bonus is a-peel-ing originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bananadonkey-kong-country-returnsgamestopnintendopre-order-bonuswiiwii-remoteFri, 24 Sep 2010 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA['Wii Remote Plus' shown on FlingSmash packaging]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/wii-remote-plus-shown-on-flingsmash-packaging/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/wii-remote-plus-shown-on-flingsmash-packaging/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/wii-remote-plus-shown-on-flingsmash-packaging/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Though Nintendo's quirky, somewhat under-the-radar throwing game FlingSmash doesn't seem like the most likely partner for the launch of a new accessory, it would appear that's exactly how Nintendo is handling it. The GameStop listing for the Artoon-developed Wii game shows that it's bundled with a "Wii Remote Plus," and still due November 7. Given FlingSmash's MotionPlus requirement, we can safely guess that the Wii Remote Plus is a Wiimote with the MotionPlus already all up in it -- a trick we've seen from third parties.

Nintendo confirmed the existence of the controller to Eurogamer, declining to offer any more details. No GameStop listing was found for just the controller, leading us to suspect that FlingSmash was always intended as a pack-in with the Wii Remote Plus (its Wii Play, so to speak) -- which neatly answers the question of why Nintendo would make FlingSmash a full-priced retail game. We're contacting Nintendo for more details, since it probably knows a bit more about its own release plans than GameStop.

Update: Nintendo has "nothing to announce at this time," a representative told Joystiq.

Joystiq'Wii Remote Plus' shown on FlingSmash packaging originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artoonflingsmashgamestopmotionplusnintendowiiwii-remotewii-remote-plusFri, 24 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Party to be bundled with Wii Remote in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/wii-party-to-be-bundled-with-wii-remote-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/wii-party-to-be-bundled-with-wii-remote-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/wii-party-to-be-bundled-with-wii-remote-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Much in the vein of Wii Play, it seems the European version of Wii Party will come with an additional, savory bonus: an extra Wii Remote. According to Siliconera, every copy of the game (which drops in Europe October 8) will come with a new controller -- a slight departure from the game's Japanese release strategy, which offered a controller bundle for 6,800 yen ($81), and a controller-less copy of the game for 4,800 yen ($57).

The game will be out in North America on October 3, but we still haven't heard whether we'll also be able to choose between different Wii Party SKUs. Sometimes you feel like a Wiimote, but sometimes you don't, you know? (Particularly when you already have four.)

JoystiqWii Party to be bundled with Wii Remote in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeminigamesnintendowiiwii-partywii-remoteTue, 31 Aug 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Innex Rapid Shot for Wii may be too real]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/the-innex-rapid-shot-for-wii-may-be-too-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/the-innex-rapid-shot-for-wii-may-be-too-real/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/the-innex-rapid-shot-for-wii-may-be-too-real/#comments Here's the surprising thing about the Innex Rapid Shot: It's good. Like, really good. The pseudo sub-machine gun not only bundles the functionality of the Wiimote, Nunchuk and MotionPlus into one controller, it also looks and feels great. In fact, it's being marketed as the first controller made solely for adults. All marketing nonsense, but it tells you a lot about what kind of audience they're targeting.

What feature does the Rapid Shot (which retails for $49.99) not include? Well, for starters, it doesn't keep you from being stupefyingly uncomfortable when a man in camouflage shouts at you about protecting your brain from zombies. Perhaps in version two?

Continue reading The Innex Rapid Shot for Wii may be too real

JoystiqThe Innex Rapid Shot for Wii may be too real originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010hoo-rahinnexnintendoperipheralrapid-shotwiiwii-motionpluswii-remoteSat, 19 Jun 2010 08:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Sanyo's new Wii remote charger accepts MotionPlus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/sanyos-new-wii-remote-charger-accepts-motionplus/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/sanyos-new-wii-remote-charger-accepts-motionplus/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/sanyos-new-wii-remote-charger-accepts-motionplus/#comments So, you've gotten yourself a fancy Wii remote charger, but you're tired of having to remove both MotionPlus and the rubber jacket before each recharging session. What's a dedicated fanboy to do? Run out and buy Sanyo's new Eneloop charging station. The device is powered by the Wii's USB port, accepts two Wii remotes and has room for both the MotionPlus add-on and its accompanying jacket. For those who haven't taken the MotionPlus plunge yet, the stand will also work with the standard Wii remote and jacket.

Best of all, the charger has no actual contacts, so you just have to pop the remote into the cradle to start charging, no connection required. It's even licensed by Nintendo. The only problem: Thus far it has only been announced for Japan. Until Sanyo decides to offer it elsewhere, savvy importers can pick one up for about $80.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqSanyo's new Wii remote charger accepts MotionPlus originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Charger RTChargerRtperipheral artery diseasePeripheralArteryDiseaseSanyoEneloopwii-remotewiimoteThu, 12 Nov 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent shows Wiimote was originally a GameCube peripheral]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-shows-wiimote-was-originally-a-gamecube-peripheral/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-shows-wiimote-was-originally-a-gamecube-peripheral/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-shows-wiimote-was-originally-a-gamecube-peripheral/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Some new images and details on Nintendo's patent for the Wiimote have surfaced on the net and they show that the original idea was planned for the GameCube. The Wiimote was to attach to the console via an adapter, much like the WaveBird's. But, as you all know, the GameCube ended up going the way of the dodo, and so the Wii was born.

The image to the right shows Mario playing tennis, which is where Nintendo originally got the idea for Wii Sports, we assume, but there's more. Past the break, you can see more diagrams showing how the Wiimote would work with the GameCube, if you're into that kind of thing.

Continue reading Patent shows Wiimote was originally a GameCube peripheral

JoystiqPatent shows Wiimote was originally a GameCube peripheral originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubepatentwii-remotewiimoteFri, 09 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent reveals Wii Remote began life as GameCube add-on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-reveals-wii-remote-began-life-as-gamecube-add-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-reveals-wii-remote-began-life-as-gamecube-add-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-reveals-wii-remote-began-life-as-gamecube-add-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,


What's so interesting about the above image? Is it that the man (?) has no eyes? Is it that he's not using the strap on the Wii Remote? No: it's that this isn't a patent drawing for the Wii Remote at all -- it's for a GameCube controller. The original Japanese patent was submitted by Nintendo in 2006, around the time Shigeru Miyamoto admitted, "[Wii] is based on GC."

Now we know its controller was, too, by way of the US Patent and Trademark Office's database, which also contains related drawings. One shows what this line-art person is playing (a tennis game with Mario) and the other is the proverbial smoking gun: a Wii remote and receiver connected to a GameCube, which is, in turn, connected to a TV with sensors attached. Check them out after the break.

[Via Siliconera]

Continue reading Patent reveals Wii Remote began life as GameCube add-on

JoystiqPatent reveals Wii Remote began life as GameCube add-on originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubenintendopatentusptowiiwii-remotewiimoteFri, 09 Jan 2009 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo denies report of new Wiimote tech]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/nintendo-denies-report-of-new-wiimote-tech/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/nintendo-denies-report-of-new-wiimote-tech/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/nintendo-denies-report-of-new-wiimote-tech/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Remember that story we ran last week about Nintendo wanting to change the internal components of the Wiimote? Well, Nintendo has finally responded to the Nikkei Tech-On! article that claimed the company would be looking into alternative accelerometer chips for the Wiimote, denying what was said in the piece.

In speaking to Edge, a Nintendo spokesperson shot down the possibility for a tech upgrade to the Wiimote's internal parts, stating this is all "purely rumour and speculation." Of course, we wouldn't rule out the possibility, because if the technology can be improved through alternative components, why wouldn't Nintendo want to go that route?


JoystiqNintendo denies report of new Wiimote tech originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometerjapannikkeinikkei-tech-onwii-remotewiimoteMon, 08 Dec 2008 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Wee bit of trouble: Nintendo can't trademark 'Wii Remote']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/wee-bit-of-trouble-nintendo-cant-trademark-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/wee-bit-of-trouble-nintendo-cant-trademark-wii-remote/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/wee-bit-of-trouble-nintendo-cant-trademark-wii-remote/#commentsFiled under: ,


Oh, woe is Wii. Sure, Nintendo's latest console is printing money, but it has a little problem on - or, rather, in - its hands: the US Patent Office has suspended a request by the company to issue a trademark for the "Wii Remote."

GamePolitics reports the application was put on hold due to the fact that "remote" is such a widely-used term, but the USPTO is willing to compromise. As long as the word "remote" is always preceeded by the word "Wii" (in all marketing, manuals, etc.) and Nintendo admits it holds no trademark on the word "remote," the government will reconsider.

Why not just go with "Wiimote," something that we (not Wii) and, well, everyone else have been calling it from day one? GamePolitics points out that Nintendo did, in fact, try for that one - only to learn that a Florida company markets a TV remote for children under the name "Weemote." D'oh. Perhaps Nintendo could take this opportunity to re-brand the controller? Think of the possibilities: the "WaggleWand," the "GameBaton," the ... "Einhänder!" Oh, wait. Why don't you give it a shot? (And, as the Superintendent says, "Keep it clean!")

JoystiqWee bit of trouble: Nintendo can't trademark 'Wii Remote' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>trademarkus-patent-officeusptoWiiwii-remotewiimoteTue, 02 Dec 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S. Patent Office suspends Nintendo 'Wii Remote' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/us-patent-office-denies-nintendo-wii-remote-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/us-patent-office-denies-nintendo-wii-remote-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/us-patent-office-denies-nintendo-wii-remote-patent/#commentsFiled under: ,

Nintendo recently filed a trademark application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which, as you might have guessed, has been shot down. Apparently, the word "remote" is far too common and incapable of being trademarked, said a letter sent to Nintendo from the USPTO last week.

The attempt to trademark the term "Wii Remote" was filed back in March by Nintendo, and even though it has been put on hold, Nintendo still has the ability to trademark the term. It would merely require that Nintendo "disclaim" any ownership of the word "remote," except for when used with "Wii Remote."

[Update: Removed uses of "patent" -- it's a trademark, duh.]

JoystiqU.S. Patent Office suspends Nintendo 'Wii Remote' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lawsuitpatenttrademarkusptowii-remoteTue, 02 Dec 2008 15:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Nice idea, terrible value: the Multiplayer Controller Set]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/nice-idea-terrible-value-the-multiplayer-controller-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/nice-idea-terrible-value-the-multiplayer-controller-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/nice-idea-terrible-value-the-multiplayer-controller-set/#commentsFiled under: ,


A Go Nintendo reader spotted this on the shelves of his local Target: a "Multi-Player Controller Set" containing a Wii Remote, a Nunchuk, and a Wii Wheel. This kind of thing obviously makes sense to Nintendo as Christmas approaches (the season where Wii excels, some would say), and we could really get behind the idea of a good value bundle of second/third/fourth peripherals (still need a fourth Wiimote and Nunchuk at Casa de Greenhough!).

It's just a shame that the price is such a sham: $74.99?! All three of these peripherals are available separately at Amazon for a total of $63.91 (which qualifies for free shipping), but here's the real laugh: you can buy an individual Wiimote, Nunchuk, and Wii Wheel for $74.97 at Target itself. D'oh! Knock at least fifteen bones off this and you've got our attention.


[Thanks, Sonic_13!]

JoystiqNice idea, terrible value: the Multiplayer Controller Set originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kart-wiimultiplayernunchuktargetwii-remotewii-wheelwiimoteWed, 12 Nov 2008 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Wiimote helps man rock out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/wiimote-helps-man-rock-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/wiimote-helps-man-rock-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/wiimote-helps-man-rock-out/#commentsFiled under: ,



While some musicians might snobbily mock those who spastically flail around on Guitar Hero's plastic controller ("Like, lol, why not just learn to play a real guitar?" is something we read far too often), others embrace our hobby, and use elements of it to further their own music.

Rob Morris is one such person. According to his collection of YouTube videos, Morris regularly performs with a Wii Remote duct-taped to his Stratocaster, where it doubles up as a whammy bar. This in turn allows him to add tremolo, or bend the pitch of his notes by up to an octave -- all by using the attached Wiimote's accelerometer. And look, here comes the science: this is achieved by "sending the Wiimote data to a computer running Max/MSP, which then sends data via MIDI to a Digitech pedal."

Ooookay. It's another Wiimote hack that we don't really understand, but it sounds pretty cool!

[Via Music Radar]

JoystiqWiimote helps man rock out originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarhackhacksmusicwhammy-barwii-remotewiimoteWed, 15 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MeWe reveals new Quad Charger for your Wiimotes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/mewe-reveals-new-quad-charger-for-your-wiimotes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/mewe-reveals-new-quad-charger-for-your-wiimotes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/mewe-reveals-new-quad-charger-for-your-wiimotes/#commentsFiled under: ,


Those of you looking for a rechargeable solution to your Wiimote's power needs, manufacturer MeWe has just come up with a new device: the Quad Charger. As you can see above, it includes LEDs to let you know the power status of your recharging Wiimotes, as well as the capacity to charge four simultaneously. And, of course, it comes with four rechargeable packs (Ni-MH).

The MeWe Quad Charger is currently available and costs $49.95.

JoystiqMeWe reveals new Quad Charger for your Wiimotes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mewemewe-chargerquad-chargerwii-remotewiimoteFri, 26 Sep 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo jazzing up Wiimote wrist straps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/nintendo-jazzing-up-wiimote-wrist-straps/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/nintendo-jazzing-up-wiimote-wrist-straps/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/nintendo-jazzing-up-wiimote-wrist-straps/#commentsFiled under: , ,


While we're still waiting for that leopard skin Wiimote wrist strap of our dreams, Nintendo will shortly release green, blue, pink, and white straps in Japan. Other than helping to distinguish Wiimotes between multiplayer sessions, we can't really think of a compelling need for these non-threatening, pastel accessories, but perhaps they're a sign that matching controllers are on the way? That's probably a long shot, but it would be nice.

For those of you with an interest in importing, these are scheduled to appear next month for ¥300 ($2.80) each, or you can snag the four-pack above for ¥1,000 ($9.25). For those of you who are too cheap for even that, you can make your own for nada.

JoystiqNintendo jazzing up Wiimote wrist straps originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbluegreenpinkstrapwhitewii-remotewiimotewrist-strapThu, 21 Aug 2008 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft totally hearts MotionPlus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/ubisoft-totally-hearts-motionplus/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/ubisoft-totally-hearts-motionplus/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/ubisoft-totally-hearts-motionplus/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo kept the Wii MotionPlus a secret from everybody for as long as possible, a move that resulted in grumbling from certain third-party developers.

That hasn't diminshed enthusiasm for the tiny add-on, however. During an interview with Gamasutra, Ubisoft Montreal CEO Yannis Mallat couldn't praise the MotionPlus enough (even though he admitted having some doubts at first), enthusing about how the peripheral would make gaming feel "seamless," and arguing that it could only lead to a more immersive experience. "It's one thing to have your brain interpolating what you're doing," gushed Mallat, "[but ] it's another thing to not need that interpolation work."

Elsewhere in the interview, Mallat expressed his view that Shaun White Snowboarding was a "must-try" and described developing Dogz as "psychologically very exciting." Hmm.

JoystiqUbisoft totally hearts MotionPlus originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorymotion-controlmotionplusshaun-whiteshaun-white-snowboardingthird-partyubisoftwii-motionpluswii-remotewiimoteyannis-mallatMon, 18 Aug 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Nintendo Power says 100 onscreen zombies in Dead Rising]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/latest-nintendo-power-says-100-onscreen-zombies-in-dead-rising/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/latest-nintendo-power-says-100-onscreen-zombies-in-dead-rising/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/latest-nintendo-power-says-100-onscreen-zombies-in-dead-rising/#commentsFiled under:


According to the latest issue of Nintendo Power, Dead Rising: Chop 'Til You Drop might not be the slouch many are making it out to be. The magazine mentions that there could be up to 100 zombies onscreen at once. Aside from that, improvements include:
  • Combat controls will mimic Resident Evil 4.
  • Selectable difficulty level.
  • Improved save system.
  • Larger text!
  • Overtime mode now part of the main game.
Sounds like Dead Rising: Chop 'Til You Drop will be an option-rich good time. How many of you are looking forward to it?

JoystiqLatest Nintendo Power says 100 onscreen zombies in Dead Rising originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomchop-til-you-dropdead-risingnintendo-powerportwii-remotewiimotezombiesTue, 05 Aug 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: What's 'very affordable' for you?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/wii-warm-up-whats-very-affordable-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/wii-warm-up-whats-very-affordable-for-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/wii-warm-up-whats-very-affordable-for-you/#commentsFiled under:


Iwata's interview yesterday definitely sparked some debate within our little community here, but it would seem a lot of you didn't exactly chime in with your own thoughts on 'very affordable.' So, what price point would you like to see Wii MotionPlus set at? Is $20 a sweet spot? Would you mind paying as much as $30? Weigh in!

JoystiqWii Warm Up: What's 'very affordable' for you? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesaccessoryiwatamotionplussatoru-iwatawii-motionpluswii-remotewiimoteTue, 05 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wiimote triumphs over Weemote: A small business sob story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/wiimote-triumphs-over-weemote-a-small-business-sob-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/wiimote-triumphs-over-weemote-a-small-business-sob-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/wiimote-triumphs-over-weemote-a-small-business-sob-story/#commentsFiled under:

Sometimes, it really sucks to be the little guy (especially if the big guy you're up against is Nintendo). Take Forbis Technologies, for example, who came out with the Weemote (and trademarked the name in 2000) long before the Wii even launched.

Nintendo never officially refers to the Wii's controller as a Wiimote, and always calls it by the full name Wii Remote. Retailer and blog outlets such as ourselves are the cause of the problem, however, as we constantly use the unofficial nickname. Ever since the term "Wiimote" caught on, though, the Weemote's sales have "fallen considerably."

Continue reading Wiimote triumphs over Weemote: A small business sob story

JoystiqWiimote triumphs over Weemote: A small business sob story originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessforbisforbis-technologiesjohn-stephentrademarkweemotewii-remotewiimoteWed, 23 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Porn for Wii: Dark Room Sex Game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/porn-for-wii-dark-room-sex-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/porn-for-wii-dark-room-sex-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/porn-for-wii-dark-room-sex-game/#commentsFiled under:


No, you didn't misread the title of this post; it's not another edition of Born for Wii for today. Yet, the title is still a bit misleading, as we really should have said that the Dark Room Sex Game is "Porn for Wii Remote."

Created for the Nordic Game Jam at the IT University at Copenhagen (which had a theme of "taboo" this year), players can either use Wiimotes or a keyboard to play this PC title. Even though it's a "sex" game, there are no visuals in Dark Room (only audio). The objective is to find a "mutual rhythm" with your partner, and then gradually speed up until -- well, we probably don't need to spell out the rest. Four players can also take part simultaneously in Orgy Mode, during which you "swap partners randomly and compete to reach orgasm the fastest."

Part of the inspiration behind Dark Room, apparently, was the phallic shape (and rumble) of the Wiimote. The team behind it hoped to make players feel embarrassed but satisfied, and believes that the use of imagination in the game is more erotic than using raunchy graphics. We're not so sure, though, that some hormone-driven teenagers would agree.

Note: The audio (and audio only) in the video above is NSFW. Also, the reaction of the person watching Dark Room Sex Game is absolutely hilarious.

[Via MTV Multiplayer]

JoystiqPorn for Wii: Dark Room Sex Game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-room-sex-gameit-universitynordic-game-jampcsexwii-remotewiimoteTue, 22 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MotionPlus totally ambushes third-party developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/motionplus-totally-ambushes-third-party-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/motionplus-totally-ambushes-third-party-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/motionplus-totally-ambushes-third-party-developers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We mucky commoners have known about the Wii MotionPlus add-on for just over a week now, but don't go thinking it's any different for third-party developers. At E3, Game Informer approached several third-parties about the peripheral, and were repeatedly told that the accessory was news to them -- as they understood it, Nintendo simply hadn't told anybody about the MotionPlus, prior to it being revealed last Monday.

In other words, we can safely not expect a flood of third-party releases supporting the peripheral. On top of that, the developers doubt they'll be able to implement Wii MotionPlus into upcoming projects, such was the secrecy that surrounded the project. Not clever, Nintendo.

JoystiqMotionPlus totally ambushes third-party developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorymotion-controlmotionplussecretthird-partywii-motionpluswii-remotewiimoteTue, 22 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Start bulking up your Wiimote early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/start-bulking-up-your-wiimote-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/start-bulking-up-your-wiimote-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/start-bulking-up-your-wiimote-early/#commentsFiled under: ,

Are you desperate for some extra length? Do you yearn for that extra inch that could give you the edge over others? Do you want increased size right now?

Well, good news: you don't have to wait for Wii MotionPlus's Spring 2009 launch for a chance to elongate your Wii Remote. The makers (it's not specified who) of this new wireless Nunchuk are happy for you to get adding to Nintendo's wand right now. Available from today at China-based outlet Divineo, this 'chuk comes with a tiny wireless receiver that plugs into the bottom of your Wiimote -- very much like the Nyko Kama model which we reviewed earlier this year.

At $24.95, this is ten bucks cheaper than Nyko's effort, or you could buy five for $21 apiece and, um, give us the spare? We're just floating ideas here!

[Via DCEmu]

JoystiqStart bulking up your Wiimote early originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nunchukwii-motionpluswii-remotewiimotewirelessTue, 22 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Nintendo exec alludes to Wiimote refresh with built-in MotionPlus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-nintendo-exec-alludes-to-wiimote-refresh-with-built-in-mot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-nintendo-exec-alludes-to-wiimote-refresh-with-built-in-mot/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-nintendo-exec-alludes-to-wiimote-refresh-with-built-in-mot/#commentsFiled under:


Your Wiimotes might be outdated pretty soon, that is if Nintendo's Katsuya Eguchi is to be trusted. During a developer roundtable, he alluded to the possibility of a hardware refresh on the Wii's motion-sensitive controller, one that would include the new MotionPlus functionality, commenting "as to looking at whether or not it will be an attachment or built in - we're always looking at how hardware should evolve and where we should take it." He also added that "it's something we'll be looking at."

Of course, there are several things to consider. For one, how much would it drive up the cost of the Wiimote? Secondly, how crappy would it be to have to (eventually) buy all new Wiimotes? Thirdly, until Nintendo shows off a killer app for the thing (as okay as Wii Sports Resort looks, it's definitely not a killer app), does anyone even care?

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqE308: Nintendo exec alludes to Wiimote refresh with built-in MotionPlus originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriescontrolse3-2008e308motionpluswii-remotewii-sports-resortwiimoteFri, 18 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo unveils Wii MotionPlus accessory for 'unmatched precision']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/nintendo-unveils-wii-motionplus-accessory-for-unmatched-precisi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/nintendo-unveils-wii-motionplus-accessory-for-unmatched-precisi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/nintendo-unveils-wii-motionplus-accessory-for-unmatched-precisi/#commentsFiled under:

Nintendo has announced via press release Wii MotionPlus, an accessory for the Wii remote that works with both the sensor bar and accelerometer to "allow for more comprehensive tracking of a player's arm position and orientation." No other details are provided at the moment, but more information is promised for Nintendo's press conferece tomorrow.

Continue reading Nintendo unveils Wii MotionPlus accessory for 'unmatched precision'

JoystiqNintendo unveils Wii MotionPlus accessory for 'unmatched precision' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsWiiwii-motewii-motionpluswii-remotewiimoteMon, 14 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wiimote inspired motion controls hit PCs in August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/wiimote-inspired-motion-controls-hit-pcs-in-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/wiimote-inspired-motion-controls-hit-pcs-in-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/wiimote-inspired-motion-controls-hit-pcs-in-august/#commentsFiled under: ,

Microsoft and Sony might -- might being the keyword -- have Wiimote-esque plans in the works, but there's another platform that we failed to consider tapping into the motion control scheme: PCs. GoLive2 has created a controller that looks eerily similar to Nintendo's, called Stix. Although these bad boys (the 200 model is for 2D games while the 400 model is for 3D) were announced last week, they won't hit retail until August.

We're not sure if PCs need motion controls, but it's an intersting concept. After trying out the controllers, though, MTV Multiplayer's Patrick Klepek described the experience as "touchy," which sounds ... not good. They also don't come cheap, as the 200 retails for $39.99 and the 400 for $49.99.

Are any of you Wiimote lovers excited to try this out on your computers, or do you think it's just a silly idea?

[Via MTV Multiplayer]

JoystiqWiimote inspired motion controls hit PCs in August originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>golive2motion-controlpcspherestixwii-remotewiimoteThu, 10 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Finally: Motion control comes to the C64]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/finally-motion-control-comes-to-the-c64/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/finally-motion-control-comes-to-the-c64/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/finally-motion-control-comes-to-the-c64/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Old hardware doesn't die ... it just gets hacked. As documented in the above video, Jeff Ledger has pieced together a clever little collection of chips and wires to bring vaguely Wii remote style interaction to the Commodore 64.

Perhaps it should be called Wii-ffle Ball, since he's taken a wiffle bat, attached an accelerometer to it, and created an interface that lets the C64 read the sensor's output as a button press. When the bat is swung fast enough, it triggers the switch and, in this case, tells Street Sports Baseball to "swing away."

[Via Hack a Day]

JoystiqFinally: Motion control comes to the C64 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commodore-64motion-sensingwii-remoteTue, 08 Jul 2008 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to use the Wii remote in The Force Unleashed duel mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/how-to-use-the-wii-remote-in-the-force-unleashed-duel-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/how-to-use-the-wii-remote-in-the-force-unleashed-duel-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/how-to-use-the-wii-remote-in-the-force-unleashed-duel-mode/#commentsFiled under: ,

Oh boy, we're really worried now about the plethora of Wii-itis and other Wii-injuries stories coming in September. We've already written about our hands-on time with Star Wars: The Force Unleashed for Wii, specifically the duel mode, but G4TV has a video of LucasArts producer Dan Wasson showing X-Play's Morgan Webb how to use the control scheme in duel mode.

To summarize: the game recognizes five different directions -- left, right, up, down and "stab" -- for different lightsaber strikes, while force powers are done with the nunchuk and can be combined for combos. We could easily see how this might get out of hand (literally) in heated multiplayer matches, what with someone getting strangled with the nunchuk wire and another hapless Wii remote sent through a big-screen TV. Help us, Wiimote Glove Kenobi, you're our only hope.

JoystiqHow to use the Wii remote in The Force Unleashed duel mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 May 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duel-modeforce-unleashedlucas-artslucasartsnintendostar-warsthe-force-unleashedWiiwii-motewii-remoteMon, 05 May 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata on Microsoft's rumored Wiimote rival: 'Pft.']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/iwata-on-microsofts-rumored-wiimote-rival-pft/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/iwata-on-microsofts-rumored-wiimote-rival-pft/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/iwata-on-microsofts-rumored-wiimote-rival-pft/#commentsFiled under:

Speculation that Microsoft may be about to launch a rival to the Wii Remote started early last month, yet Nintendo President Satoru Iwata's thoughts on the matter have only publicly emerged now. His verdict? A resounding, distinctly unimpressed "Meh."

Well, we're paraphrasing a bit there, but it's more or less what he meant. "We are not concerned about what other companies may do," Iwata told an audience of investors. "[We're] rather more concerned with presenting [...] new ideas to our customers based on the prospect that our existing customers will surely get tired of [gameplay] enabled by the Wii Remote if we do not try to improve the experience."

Rather than fret over what Microsoft and Sony get up to, Iwata says he'd prefer that Nintendo concentrated on producing more "new surprises" for consumers. Or, to put it another way, keep one step ahead of the competition, and they'll never catch you.

[Via Develop]

JoystiqIwata on Microsoft's rumored Wiimote rival: 'Pft.' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 May 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iwatamicrosoftripoffwii-remotewiimotexbox-360Fri, 02 May 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mario Kart Wii controller showdown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-definitive-mario-kart-wii-controller-showdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-definitive-mario-kart-wii-controller-showdown/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-definitive-mario-kart-wii-controller-showdown/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There are five ways to handle your racer in Mario Kart Wii: Wii Remote solo, Wii Remote embedded in Wii Wheel, Wii Remote with Nunchuk, Classic Controller, and GameCube controller. But, removing all other variables, which control method is the best? Are there really limitations to not using the Wii Wheel? We decided to pull out the ever-trusty "scientific method" and determine, once and for all, the best kart controller.

Continue reading The Mario Kart Wii controller showdown

JoystiqThe Mario Kart Wii controller showdown originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-controllerGameCubegamecube-controllergcn-controllerjoystiqfeaturesmariomario-kartmario-kart-wiinintendonunchukWiiwii-remotewii-wheelFri, 25 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wiimote cufflinks, for the Wii owner who has everything]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/wiimote-cuff-links-for-the-wii-owner-who-has-everything/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/wiimote-cuff-links-for-the-wii-owner-who-has-everything/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/wiimote-cuff-links-for-the-wii-owner-who-has-everything/#commentsFiled under:


"For those times that you are away from your beloved gaming system, at least you can pretend to be fighting your evil nemesis, Gargamel."

Rather than referencing the arch-nemesis of the Smurfs, we presume the folks at Cufflinks.com actually meant to say Ganon. Still, we'll forgive them the odd error, because hey, these sterling silver Wiimote cufflinks are pretty much the dapperest accessories we've ever seen for Wii lovers. They're fully reversible thanks to the tiny silver nunchuk on the end, and are just about discreet enough for your next wedding/awards ceremony/court appearance.

But before you reach for your wallet, know this: at $150, they're not that much cheaper than a Wii itself.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqWiimote cufflinks, for the Wii owner who has everything originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cuff-linksjewelrynunchuksilverwii-remotewiimoteWed, 23 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii: The bad and the ugly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/wii-the-bad-and-the-ugly/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/wii-the-bad-and-the-ugly/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/wii-the-bad-and-the-ugly/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Even Wii lovers can find a few things to complain about, but let's be real here -- if you're going to complain, make sure your beef is accurate (and worth writing home about). Chad Sapieha of the Globe and Mail's Controller Freak blog seems to disagree with that, however. While we have to offer up kudos over the fact that he spread the anti-love around evenly among all three current-generation consoles in his recent post of hate, we still take issue with some of his Wii complaints.

His first complaint about the Wii is that it isn't as cheap as it appears. In order to play the best multiplayer games on the system, he says, within the comfort of your home with friends, you have to buy three more controllers and three nunchuks. To support this, he uses the examples of Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Wii Sports. However, you don't need four nunchuks for the latter unless you feel like building a rounded tower, and the only game that even requires four Wii remotes is four-player tennis. As for Brawl, it seems likely to us that most Wii owners who have picked up Brawl have a GameCube controller or two lying around, and since that seems to be the preferred way to play anyway, that certainly cuts down the expense. Next he mentions the required investment of a 4 GB card for "avid downloaders," but we're of the opinion that "avid downloaders" who are strapped for cash might just do what Nintendo recommends, and download, delete, and re-download at need. We're not saying the Wii's storage system is without problem, but a 4 GB card is hardly a must.

Sapieha's other complaints strike chords, however, even if one is the most rehashed complaint of all: friend codes. His other issue? The lack of demos for Virtual Console games. While we agree that demos would be awesome, there's no shortage of videos of Virtual Console games available. Not only can you get them on Nintendo's official site, but you can see 'em right here, too. It may not be as good as a demo, but it's better than nothing.

The point? If these are the worst things we can find to complain about, Wii owners are doing okay.

JoystiqWii: The bad and the ugly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>complaintsfriend-codesnunchukstoragewii-remoteWed, 09 Apr 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Microsoft working on Wiimote-style device]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/rumor-microsoft-working-on-wiimote-style-device/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/rumor-microsoft-working-on-wiimote-style-device/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/rumor-microsoft-working-on-wiimote-style-device/#commentsFiled under: , ,

On the face of it, the latest rumor that Microsoft is planning a Wiimote-esque peripheral (purportedly developed by Rare) for the Xbox 360 carries all the hallmarks of a wind-up. There's the obligatory "anonymous source," the hastily drawn MS Paint sketch you see to the right, and plenty of disclaimers -- "if it is indeed released," "if the project comes to fruition" -- in the MTV Multiplayer blog post that broke the rumor.

Look closer, however, and the speculation seems to gain credibility. As our sister site Xbox 360 Fanboy notes, Rare also happens to be developing The Fast and the Furriest for Xbox Live Arcade, which features "a wand type input device for gesture recognition." And it's no secret that Microsoft has spent the last few months jealously eyeing Nintendo's hold over the "casual" crowd -- but would the company be quite so brazen in ripping off Nintendo's gaming wand?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRumor: Microsoft working on Wiimote-style device originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftripoffwii-remotewiimotexbox-360Tue, 08 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Non-Wiimote controls limited for Mario Kart Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/non-wiimote-controls-limited-for-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/non-wiimote-controls-limited-for-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/non-wiimote-controls-limited-for-mario-kart-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click to enlarge

Fans of alternate Wii control schemes were obviously psyched when it was revealed that Mario Kart Wii would support a variety of control methods, including the Wii Classic Controller and Gamecube pad. But those fans might want to scale back their expectations, as an updated game fact sheet (posted on Nintendo's press site) claims that players who don't use the Wii Remote schemes will not be able to perform "certain moves" and "some maneuvers."

What maneuvers exactly? We're not quite sure, but the new mid-air tricks probably aren't among them -- A Link to the Future notes that an IGN preview specifically mentions Classic and Gamecube controller users can hit the d-pad to perform those. We find it hard to imagine that the plethora of joysticks and buttons on the alternate control schemes can't replicate the controls of the somewhat button-free design of the Wii Remote. Could this be an effort to encourage more use of the practically useless 'extremely useful' Wii Wheel? You'll know as soon as we do.

Gallery: Mario Kart Wii

Continue reading Non-Wiimote controls limited for Mario Kart Wii

JoystiqNon-Wiimote controls limited for Mario Kart Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-controllergamecubemario-kartmario-kart-wiiWiiwii-remotewii-wheelwiimoteWed, 02 Apr 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wireless 360 controller tops battery life test]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/wireless-360-controller-tops-battery-life-test/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/wireless-360-controller-tops-battery-life-test/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/wireless-360-controller-tops-battery-life-test/#commentsFiled under: , ,

According to a feature from the folks at GamePro, Xbox 360 owners can expect more gaming bang for their battery-life buck. Multiple tests on the Xbox 360 wireless controller, SIXAXIS and Wii Remote were conducted to see which one would last the longest. Scraping the bottom of the battery-life barrel was the PlayStation 3 SIXAXIS which only held out for 18 hours and 41 minutes; mainly due to the lack of auto-off functionality. Second place went to the Nintendo Wii remote, doubling Sony's time at 36 hours and 43 minutes. Xbox 360's wireless remote topped the list at 56 hours and 56 minutes. While the article states that the Xbox 360 dashboard battery indicator isn't as accurate as the PS3 or Wii, a single-day charge and play session always lasted longer on Xbox 360. In case you were wondering, the irony that anything associated with the Xbox 360 won a reliability test was lost on no one.

[Thanks, marklar. Via Ars Technica]

JoystiqWireless 360 controller tops battery life test originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery-lifeController-testscontrollersps3sixaxiswiiwii-remotexbox-360xbox-360-wireless-controllerTue, 05 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Experimenting with power]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/experimenting-with-power/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/experimenting-with-power/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/31/experimenting-with-power/#commentsFiled under: ,


Christmas 2006 will always be remembered at Casa de Greenhough for this blogger's second Wiimote running out of juice just ten minutes into the family's first (and last) Wii Tennis session of the day, and for the tears that followed from younger relatives (okay, and me).

That minor black mark aside, the battery life of the trusty Wii Remote has always seemed quite respectable, but GamePro decided to get its science on and test exactly how quickly each home console sucks the life from batteries.

The results proved surprising, with the Wiimote (36 hours and 43 minutes from each set of batteries) almost bang in the middle of the PlayStation 3's Sixaxis (a piffling 18 hours and 41 minutes) and the Xbox 360 controller (56 hours and 56 minutes). As GamePro notes, the presence of so many extras (speakers, gyroscopes, etc.) make the Wiimote's performance all the more impressive.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqExperimenting with power originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ps3wii-remotewiimotewirelessxbox-360Thu, 31 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST