Freaky Game Trackball Controller
While the controllers for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles are still the kings of the controller hill, this segment of the game industry is hardly as stagnant as it might seem upon cursory examination. Innovation abounds, and that creativity has given rise to some truly strange configurations. Here is a look at the ten freakiest game controllers we’ve encountered.
10. The Control Glove
Engineered Fibre Structures Ltd makes the control glove with a lightweight stretch material that has contractors on the fingertips. This allows the player to create gestures by rubbing their fingers together, and then the gloves sends those gestures to the PC or console via Bluetooth.
9. PS2 Paradox
Specifically designed for the PS2 console, bodieLobus’ Paradox replaces one of the thumb sticks with a thumb trackball in order to recreate the responsiveness of a mouse. Gamers can use this controller with the PC using an appropriate PS2 USB adapter.
8. Project Epoc
Emotiv Systems’ Project Epoc employs neuro-technology in order to determine the gamer’s next move. It works, but it requires a great deal of configuration in order to work for any one person.
7. The NES Mini
The NES Mini is a complete classic NES system miniaturized to the size of an arcade controller. It has 76 NES games onboard, and it has a cartridge connector for expandability.
6. Xbox 360 QWERTY Keyboard
This interesting Xbox 360 has a fully capable QWERTY keyboard built in to the area between the handles. This allows gamers to take advantage of the console’s messaging features without changing controllers.
5. Force Dynamics’ 301
The 301 is an amazing motion gaming system with a hefty $35K sticker price. The good news is that it connects to any Windows-based PC, and gamers can use it for any style of game.
4. Shinkansen Wii Controller
Densga de Go!: Shinkansen is a train simulation that is incredibly popular in Japan. This controller is for train simulations what racing wheels and pedals are for racing games.
3. Dream Machine
The Dream Machine is a human-sized contraption that allows the gamer to use their fully body to control the car, skateboard or avatar on screen.
2. USB Finger Dance Mat
For those times when you and your friend lack the space or the gumption to stand up and dance, the Finger Dance mat allows you to play Dance Dance Revolution with your fingers.
1. Resident Evil 4 Chainsaw Controller
From NubyTech, this full-featured control provides some RE4-specific functionality. Using N-motion technology, the controller reacts to the gamer swinging the chainsaw around like the real thing.
Well, there you have them, the ten freakiest game controllers ever assembled. However, innovation is the name of the game in the gaming industry, and it won’t be long before this list needs a sequel.