Nyko Promises Superior, Uglier Wii Remote

Nyko is a Wii accessory juggernaut. After giving us a zapper alternative that actually looks like a real gun, a wireless nunchuk, and a wireless Classic Controller, Nyko finishes their off brand accessory lineup with a Wii Remote alternative – “The Wand.”

In addition to the speaker, motoin control, and standard button layout of the official Wii-Remote controller, the Wand boasts larger buttons, and what Nyko calls “Trans-Port” technology.  The “trans-port” allows you to “transport” Wii Remote button presses to other accessories.  The pun sure is lame, but end result may give the Wand a leg-up over the offical controller – it means a Zapper accessory with a electronic button behind the trigger rather then a physical lever designed to press the “B button.”   Any button on the Wand can be re-mapped to a corresponding button on compatable accessories – it could mean some interesting accessories in the future. It sure looks weird though.  “The Wand” will hit store shelves in April.

Head past the break for a photo of the Wand’s “zapper” accessory and a press release.

Press Release:

The Wandâ„¢

The Nyko Wand is the world’s most advanced alternative to the Wii Remoteâ„¢ and has been designed from the ground up for superior functionality, comfort, and value. The new controller maintains all of the control functions Wii gamers expect with full motion-sensing capability, pointer functionality, vibration feedback, and a built-in speaker, while offering a variety of new features.

The Wand contains Nyko’s all-new Trans-Portâ„¢ technology, which enables control and vibration feedback to be electrically replicated on a compatible attachment accessory, providing for faster and more accurate input response. Current attachments made for the Wii Remote can only access buttons through use of mechanical triggers and provide no vibration feedback. One of the many potential uses of Trans-Port technology is a pistol grip that connects to the Wand and electrically replicates key action buttons, providing controls not currently accessible with attachments for the Wii Remote. In addition, enlarged 1 and 2 buttons make the Wand an exceptional choice for classic gaming control when turned sideways, complete with Nyko’s signature rubberized battery cover to ensure maximum comfort and grip.

The Wand will be available at select retail stores nationwide in April, 2009.