Joystiq reports: “Computer and Video Games has the scoop on a new motion-sensing controller technology from In2Games codenamed “fusion.” The article says that the USB-based, multi-platform control system uses “sound waves and other technical wizardry” to sense the controllers position and orientation in space.”
CV&G also claim that the third-party motion controllers are “more accurate” than Nintendo’s Wii, sensing more minute details than the Wiimote. Still don’t think Nintendo is on to something? And when does accurate become too accurate? I get the feeling (and personally believe) that Nintendo wants motion controls to merely mimic real-life movements, not perfectly recreate them.
[via Joystiq]
The more I see 3rd party companies trying to create something close to the Wiimote (while avoiding a lawsuit)is the more I now understand that Nintendo have a winner on their hands.
Finding the right match to ignite a product firestorm is tricky. It's a ballancing act between quality, hype and price. Gizmodo's calling these the "wii-killer" with a "?" after the headline, but I don;t think these 3rd party guys hve the backing or clout of a company like Nintendo in the eyes of the general public. This announcement is kind of like BetaMax — it was technologically superior to VHS, but the cheaper and more easily accessible alternative won. I see that same dynamic here with these peripherals.
I agree Blake. I've pondered how sensitive the Wiimote would be for a few months now, and I've reached the conclusion that it will be "sensitive enough." If I'm using the pointer feature to select a Wii channel, or load a saved game for example, I don't want to have to hold the wiimote with two tightly gripped hands to keep it stable enough to select what I want. I think Nintendo knows this has tuned its sensitivity accordingly, so that something such as a simple flick of the wrist up or down will move to the next selection. Likewise, if I want link to aim his bow at an enemy in TP, I don't want to have to struggle to even get in the general vicinity of my target.The wiimote is about fun, not realistic simulation.
These companies pose as much threat to Nintendo as those carts in the mall that sell the NES 100-i-1 rip-off machines that play "DVCK HVNT".
Is it just me, or does this thing look like a travel toiletries kit? My only question is, where's the floss?
This might sound stupid, but design is really important, in this case especially.The Wiimote is a sexy little rectangle of righteousness that allows you to use your imagination without going overboard. That is to say, it's not shaped like what you want to use it to mimic. It is whatever it's supposed to be at the time. That's what's so great about the Wiimote. It can be anything. Not just a tennis racket or a golf club, a sword or a steering wheel. Anything!These hinder the intended imagination. And I dont like rip-offs, to boot.
this will probably be as successful as their first attempt, the gametrak.
I dont know if anyone noticed…but there are videos of the guy using the tennis racket and the bowling ball…it has a horrible lag rate.
As long as games support it, sounds good. I been thru too many "One gadget per game" crap to continue. The nice thing about the Wii is that the technology its inside the official controller, not other choice….