Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.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[Alternative Wii U controller design makes brief appearance on Twitter, goes into hiding]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/alternative-wii-u-controller-design-leaked/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/alternative-wii-u-controller-design-leaked/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/alternative-wii-u-controller-design-leaked/#comments Alternative Wii U controller design makes brief Twitter appearance, goes into hiding

Excited for Nintendo's new tablet-esque controller? So are the kids in TT Games' QA department. An over-excited tester tweeted out an image of a slightly different Wii U slab than the one we laid hands on at E3 2011, teasing "look we what we have at work!" Answering the call does indeed reveal something worth looking at -- a somewhat wider looking Wii U slate featuring two full-sized analog sticks (as opposed to 3DS-like circle pads), a pair of unmarked button-like squares, and a new starboard home for the controller's plus and minus buttons.

The tweet was summarily pulled, of course, but not before our friends at Joystiq nabbed a screenshot. Naturally, the rumor mill started right up, churning out speculation of developer specific slabs, early prototypes and late redesigns. The truth? We'll probably need to wait until E3 to find out, but we reached out to Nintendo for a comment all the same. We'll let you know if we hear anything more than the usual "Nintendo doesn't comment on rumors and speculation" line.

Alternative Wii U controller design makes brief appearance on Twitter, goes into hiding originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 May 2012 02:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerse3e3 2012E32012gamegolfgunleakleakedleaksnintendonintendo wiinintendo wii uNintendoWiiNintendoWiiUredesignvideo gamevideo gamesVideoGameVideoGamesWiiwii remotewii uWiimoteWiiRemoteWiiUSun, 20 May 2012 02:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo patent application lends a look at Wii U's core technology, add-ons too]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/nintendo-applies-for-wii-u-patents/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/nintendo-applies-for-wii-u-patents/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/nintendo-applies-for-wii-u-patents/#comments Image

Little did we know that, just two months after we were trying the Wii U for ourselves, Nintendo was busy patenting nearly everything its unique game console would have to offer. A pair of just-published US Patent Office applications filed last August get into the nuts and bolts of how the controller and the legacy Wii remote will play with the new device. It's clear that the patent work had started before Nintendo had redesigned the main system -- the box at the center of the patents looks like the existing Wii -- but it does show the nitty-gritty of things we only saw at last year's Nintendo E3 keynote, such as the gun attachment or playing golf with a combination of the Wii U controller and the traditional Wiimote. Nintendo also gave itself some wiggle room on the controller's screen size: although the LCD is officially 6.2 inches across, the patent allows that it might be "5 inches or larger." We're wondering how much of the overall look and technology will survive through to the finished Wii U design's unveiling at this year's E3. For now, though, you can explore the patents yourself at the links below.

Nintendo patent application lends a look at Wii U's core technology, add-ons too originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 00:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attachmentconsoleconsolescontrollercontrollerse3e3 2012E32012gamegolfgunnintendonintendo wiinintendo wii uNintendoWiiNintendoWiiUpatentpatentsUSPTOvideo gamevideo gamesVideoGameVideoGamesWiiwii remotewii uWiimoteWiiRemoteWiiUFri, 04 May 2012 00:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic Mickey 2 controllers invoke the power of the brush, are made for you and me]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/epic-mickey-2-controllers-invoke-the-power-of-the-brush-are-mad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/epic-mickey-2-controllers-invoke-the-power-of-the-brush-are-mad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/epic-mickey-2-controllers-invoke-the-power-of-the-brush-are-mad/#comments ImageDo you like your M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E with a side of eXtreme? So do the developers at Junction Point, which is why a sequel to the mouse's first Epic is on its way. But the impending release of that title's not all grown-up Mouseketeers-cum-gamers have to look forward to, as two special WiiMote peripherals are also apparently on deck. Shown off at a preview event for Epic Mickey 2, the prototype accessories are made to mimic in-game "weapons," like Oswald's controller and Mickey's paintbrush. The designs aren't final, but as you'll see in the source below, they should make for an excellent addition to any diehard's Disneyana collection.

Epic Mickey 2 controllers invoke the power of the brush, are made for you and me originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 06:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllersDisneyEpic Mickey 2EpicMickey2gamingMickey MouseMickeyMouseprototypeprototypesvideo gamevideo gamesVideoGameVideoGamesWiiWiiMoteSat, 24 Mar 2012 06:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Developer pairs robot with gaming controllers for remote cat grooming, affection expression]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/developer-pairs-robot-with-gaming-controllers-for-remote-cat-gro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/developer-pairs-robot-with-gaming-controllers-for-remote-cat-gro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/developer-pairs-robot-with-gaming-controllers-for-remote-cat-gro/#comments You could take the time to make your cat feel loved. Or you could augment a robot to do it for you. Software engineer Taylor Veltrop has accomplished this by combining a 21-inch-tall Nao robot, a few Wiimotes, a Kinect sensor bar, a treadmill and a head-mounted display. The configuration, which represents about a year's work and several thousand dollars in parts, uses the Kinect and Wii remotes to control the robot's arms, the sensor bar and treadmill to provide movement and the head-mounted display to move the Nao's head and adjust its camera angle. This is still a work in progress, and doesn't include things like two-way audio, which Veltrop plans to implement using an integrated microphone and speakers. Click past the break for a video of robotic feline grooming action.

Continue reading Developer pairs robot with gaming controllers for remote cat grooming, affection expression

Developer pairs robot with gaming controllers for remote cat grooming, affection expression originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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So you've got a few folks on your holiday shopping list that just aren't Zelda fans. You can still spring for some Nintendo hardware with two more bundles due out December 4th. Inside, you'll find a pink Nintendo 3DS paired with your choice of nintendogs + cats: French Bulldog and New Friends or nintendogs + cats: Toy Poodle and New Friends. Both of the aforementioned bundles will set you back $169.99 -- the same cost of a lonely 3DS system purchased solo. If a pink handheld just isn't what you're after, you may opt for one of The Big N's other bundles already on shelves, including the Midnight Blue DSi XL. In need of a quick refresher before hitting the mall? Check out the PR below for a complete list of Nintendo's holiday package offerings.

Continue reading Nintendo looks to keep you warm, bundled even, with two more 3DS packages

Nintendo looks to keep you warm, bundled even, with two more 3DS packages originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 01:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This patent from Nintendo envisions how it could bring a touch interface to its Wiimotes through an (admittedly unwieldy-looking) controller extension. While the Wii U already looks set to bring touchscreen fun to all things big-screened and Nintendo-themed, this concept offers up touch functionality to existing Wiis through an infrared LED that picks up the location of your finger and transmits it periscope-style to the IR sensor on the Wiimote. If the screen remains untouched, the controller acts as normal -- or as normal as it can with that extra hardware heft.

Nintendo patent posits Wiimote touchpad extension, looks like plumbing schematic originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryconsolenintendonintendo wiinintendo wii uNintendoWiiNintendoWiiUpatentperiscopeTouchPadtouchscreenwiiwiimoteMon, 07 Nov 2011 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Linux kernel hits 3.1, adds support for NFC and Wiimotes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/linux-kernel-hits-3-1-adds-support-for-nfc-and-wiimotes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/linux-kernel-hits-3-1-adds-support-for-nfc-and-wiimotes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/linux-kernel-hits-3-1-adds-support-for-nfc-and-wiimotes/#comments Linux kernel 3.1 In May Linux finally saw the release of kernel version 3.0, an evolutionary update to the popular open-source platform that was nearly 15 years in the making. Today, version 3.1 is making its debut, once again primarily offering small tweaks like better support for Intel's Ivy Bridge and Cedar Trail chips and improved power management. But there are some new features getting baked in, including support for NFC and drivers for Wiimotes. The brave amongst you can download the sources from Git now (it hasn't been posted to Kernel.org just yet), but we suggest you hold out until your distro of choice releases an official update.

Linux kernel hits 3.1, adds support for NFC and Wiimotes originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CedarTrailivy bridgeIvyBridgekernellinuxlinux 3.1linux kernellinux kernel 3.1Linux3.1LinuxKernelLinuxKernel3.1minipostnear field communicationNearFieldCommunicationnfcopen sourceOpenSourceoswiimoteMon, 24 Oct 2011 13:19:00 EST<![CDATA[LG Smart TV goes on the charm offensive, appeals to Adobe developers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/lg-smart-tv-goes-on-the-charm-offensive-appeals-to-adobe-de/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/lg-smart-tv-goes-on-the-charm-offensive-appeals-to-adobe-de/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/lg-smart-tv-goes-on-the-charm-offensive-appeals-to-adobe-de/#comments

LG wants to bring the world of Adobe Flash to your living room. Yes, 2012's lineup of Smart TVs, theater systems and Blu-ray players are all set to arrive with support for both Flash Player and AIR 3, and the Korean manufacturer is keen to get developers signed up for its next-generation Smart TV SDK. The new software development kit will include a simplified dashboard, the ability to render 2D apps in 3D and even "console-quality gaming." Throw in Adobe's new Game Input API, and we could see tablets, joysticks and even LG-made smartphones used to control on-screen action. LG has informed us that these upgrades will be limited to next year's catalogue -- your 2011 purchases won't support the new software, and will have to make do with the slightly weedier Adobe Flash Lite. New Smart TVs will also be compatible with the Wiimote-esque Magic Motion Remote, bringing gesture-based awkwardness to menu selection.

Continue reading LG Smart TV goes on the charm offensive, appeals to Adobe developers

LG Smart TV goes on the charm offensive, appeals to Adobe developers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 23:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adobeadobe airAdobe FlashAdobeAirAdobeFlashhdpostminiLGlg smart tvLgSmartTvmagic motion remoteMagicMotionRemotesdkSmart TVsmart tv sdkSmartTvSmartTvSdktvtv interfaceTvInterfacewiimoteTue, 04 Oct 2011 23:33:00 EST<![CDATA[SUFFER '11 farming robot plays a multitude of roles, takes commands via Wiimote (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/suffer-11-farming-robot-plays-a-multitude-of-roles-takes-comma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/suffer-11-farming-robot-plays-a-multitude-of-roles-takes-comma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/30/suffer-11-farming-robot-plays-a-multitude-of-roles-takes-comma/#comments So much for stereotypes, eh? The future of farming is being painted in a far different light here at NEXT Aarhus, where a team from the University of Southern Denmark brought in the largest Wiimote-controlled robot that we've ever seen. The heretofore unnamed beast (going by SUFFER '11 for the time being) is a farming-centric machine that's designed to take the load off of the landowners (while providing a bit of enjoyment all the while). Put simply, this modular bot can have various apparatuses swapped into its midsection -- one pop-in attachment could pick potatoes, while another could disperse pesticide, for example. There's even a module that'll enable it to detect rows and plow down the obvious routes, making it that much easier for farmers of the next millennium to take time off. Of course, the standout feature from our perspective was the inbuilt Bluetooth and WiFi, which allowed the demonstrator to operate the 'bot with a standard Wii remote. Per usual, the vid's after the break.

Gallery: SUFFER '11 farming robot hands-on at NEXT Aarhus

Continue reading SUFFER '11 farming robot plays a multitude of roles, takes commands via Wiimote (video)

SUFFER '11 farming robot plays a multitude of roles, takes commands via Wiimote (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothcontrollerdiyfarmfarmingfarming robotFarmingRobothackhands-onmodnextnext aarhusnext aarhus 2011NextAarhusNextAarhus2011nintendorobotuniversityuniversity of southern denmarkUniversityOfSouthernDenmarkvideowifiwiiwii controllerwii remoteWiiControllerwiimoteWiiRemoteTue, 30 Aug 2011 14:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword and golden Wiimote headed for November 20th release]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/nintendos-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-and-golden-wiimote-hea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/nintendos-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-and-golden-wiimote-hea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/nintendos-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-and-golden-wiimote-hea/#comments It's hard to believe Link (read: you) has been saving Hyrule and the kidnap-prone Zelda for 25 long years. To commemorate this video gaming milestone, and its upcoming Skyward Sword installment, Nintendo's issuing a limited edition Fabergé egg. Alright, we kid, it's actually the golden Wii Remote Plus we told you about back at E3, except now we've got a release date and pricing. Hitting retailers' shelves on November 20th, gamers can opt for the golden remote bundle at $69.99, or the standalone game for $49.99. Although the swanky controller won't be sold separately, all initial units of both offerings will come with a gratis The Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary Symphony Concert music CD. You can head past the break to check out the Big N's official presser.

Continue reading Nintendo's Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword and golden Wiimote headed for November 20th release

Nintendo's Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword and golden Wiimote headed for November 20th release originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleLegend of ZeldaLegendOfZeldalimited editionLimitedEditionmotionplusrelease dateReleaseDateThe Legend of Zelda : Skyward SwordTheLegendOfZelda:SkywardSwordwiiwii controllerWiiControllerwiimotezeldaMon, 29 Aug 2011 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Maker Faire pony has Wiimote-controlled indigestion, belches fire (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/maker-faire-pony-has-wiimote-controlled-indigestion-belches-fir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/maker-faire-pony-has-wiimote-controlled-indigestion-belches-fir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/maker-faire-pony-has-wiimote-controlled-indigestion-belches-fir/#comments There's a good reason why My Little Pony wasn't marketed to boys. Shown off at the 2011 Maker Faire in Detroit, this animatronic, fire-breathing horsie got to spread a little heat thanks to the Louisville, KY-based modding duo, LVL1. The partially Wiimote-controlled mechanical filly is the result of the duo's Hackerspace efforts, and plans are already underway to loose this steed into the great, fully wireless open. Also on deck for the hot-mouthed stallion: a flame-spewing cabbage patch doll riding companion. How's that for a DIY-perversion of your precious 80s youth? Peep the full pyromania-tinged project after the break.

Continue reading Maker Faire pony has Wiimote-controlled indigestion, belches fire (video)

Maker Faire pony has Wiimote-controlled indigestion, belches fire (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabbage patch dollCabbagePatchDolldetroitDIYfire-breathing ponyFire-breathingPonyhackHackerspacemaker faireMaker Faire detroit 2011MakerFaireMakerFaireDetroit2011modmy little ponyMyLittlePonyponyvideoWiimoteMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Cyberbike gives you a workout, costs more than the system itself]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/wii-cyberbike-gives-you-a-workout-costs-more-than-the-system-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/wii-cyberbike-gives-you-a-workout-costs-more-than-the-system-it/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/wii-cyberbike-gives-you-a-workout-costs-more-than-the-system-it/#comments We've seen this sort of preposterousness before from BigBen, and we're no closer to falling in love now than we were back in 2009. This behemoth allows you to get the full experience in the console's Cyber Cycling Sports title, and the feeling of actually accomplishing something in the process? A presumably marketable side effect. The updated Cyberbike Magnetic Edition is available in North America this time around, relying on -- surprise, surprise -- magnetic resistance to offer a costly workout for those under 286 pounds. This oversized peripheral is available now for $199.99 (bike and game combo), which puts it a bit too far above the cost of an actual console ($150) for us to consider giving it a shot. Plus, we've already committed to biking downtown for our eventual Wii U pickup -- and frankly, that's enough to cover our yearly workout quota.

Continue reading Wii Cyberbike gives you a workout, costs more than the system itself

Wii Cyberbike gives you a workout, costs more than the system itself originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorybicycleBigben InteractiveBigbenInteractivebikecontrollerCyberbikecyclingexercisefitnesslife fitnessLifeFitnessMy Body CoachMyBodyCoachnintendoNintendWiiwiiwiimoteThu, 30 Jun 2011 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo says one Wii U controller per console, robs player two of extra screen]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/18/nintendo-says-one-wii-u-controller-per-console-robs-player-two/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/18/nintendo-says-one-wii-u-controller-per-console-robs-player-two/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/18/nintendo-says-one-wii-u-controller-per-console-robs-player-two/#comments Wii U supports multiple screen-controllers, games will only use one for now Nintendo's tablet-esque Wii U controller raised a few questions when it was announced at E3. Questions like, "What kind of crazy games are going to use that thing," and "How much will a second controller cost me?" The latter, at least, has been answered. Nothing. You don't need one. Nintendo's Satoru Iwata recently said in an interview that games enlisting more than one Wii U controller aren't being considered just yet -- although they are possible. Our very own Ittousai tells us that Iwata told Diamond Online that the Wii U can technically support multiple screen-controllers, but that additional slabs would be too expensive to sell on their own. Iwata went on to say that the console would ship with only one, and that game developers should design titles under the assumption that each console will use a single Wii U controller. Player two will have to settle for a good 'ol Wiimote, and even Satoru himself admits that there are plenty of those around.

Nintendo says one Wii U controller per console, robs player two of extra screen originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Jun 2011 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nintendo just announced at E3 that The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword for Wii is "finally done," and it also revealed that it'll have something of a surprise to mark its release this holiday season: a limited edition gold Wiimote. That, of course, comes with MotionPlus built-in, but details (including a price) are unfortunately a bit light otherwise. We'll let you know more as we get it.

Nintendo announces gold Wiimote for Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3 2011E32011motionpluswiiwii controlerWiiControlerwiimotezeldaTue, 07 Jun 2011 11:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Avvio G6 Gamer phone is an upside Wiimote (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/avvio-g6-gamer-phone-is-an-upside-wiimote-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/avvio-g6-gamer-phone-is-an-upside-wiimote-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/avvio-g6-gamer-phone-is-an-upside-wiimote-video/#comments
The biggest problem with the Wiimote? You can't make calls on the thing. Sure you could buy a console and a cellphone, but what's the fun in that? The Avvio G6 Gamer handset, which recently scored FCC approval, can make calls and, when flipped over, transforms into a Bluetooth motion controller for what appears to be a fairly limited set of sports games playable on your PC. No word on pricing or availability, so you can either wait on it or just buy an iPhone and download this thing. It's your call. Video of a dude playing badminton with his phone after the break.

Continue reading Avvio G6 Gamer phone is an upside Wiimote (video)

Avvio G6 Gamer phone is an upside Wiimote (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 May 2011 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avvioavvio g6 gamerAvvioG6Gamerbluetoothgamingmobilemotionmotion controllerMotionControllerwiimoteWed, 18 May 2011 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Next generation Wii controller to feature 6.2-inch display, turn living room into giant DS?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/next-generation-wii-controller-to-feature-6-2-inch-display-turn/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/next-generation-wii-controller-to-feature-6-2-inch-display-turn/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/next-generation-wii-controller-to-feature-6-2-inch-display-turn/#comments E3 is getting close, just two months away now. As such the next-gen Wii console rumors have heated to a boil. One of the most interesting bits of tattle originates from Kotaku. The gaming site's sources claim (with impressive specificity) that the new 8-button controller features a screen pushing a whopping 6.2 inches, two analog sticks, and a camera. The new Wii console (sometimes called the Wii 2, Wii HD, or simply "Project Cafe") is said to support the new controller in addition to Wii Remote-style controllers for backward compatibility with existing Wii games -- at the moment, however, it's not clear if that implies support for existing Wiimotes. But why the giant display? Here's Kotaku's take:
The 6.2-inch screen will receive data wirelessly from the Nintendo console and presents an array of options, from putting the player's inventory or map on the controller screen, to allowing players to combine it with the controller's camera to snap photos that could be imported into a game or even turning it into some sort of glorified viewfinder (we're unclear about whether the camera on the controller points at the player or can be outward-facing; we've heard both - maybe it swivels?).
In other words, you can think of the new controller-plus-console combination as a modern Dreamcast system or "glorified mega-DS," as Kotaku puts it, where the TV is the top screen and the handheld controller is the lower touchscreen. If true then we'll likely hear the official first word at E3 which kicks off on June 7th.

Update: IGN has its own set of "sources" confirming many of these details. Could this be a Nintendo rumor that pans out, for once? We should know in just over a month.

Next generation Wii controller to feature 6.2-inch display, turn living room into giant DS? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 05:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6.2-inchdse3e3 2011E32011nintendoproject cafeProjectCaferumorwiiwii 2wii hdwii iiwii remoteWii2WiiHdWiiIiwiimoteWiiRemoteFri, 22 Apr 2011 05:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Augmented reality Tetris game uses Kinect hack, Wiimote, smooth jazz (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/augmented-reality-tetris-game-uses-kinect-hack-wiimote-smooth/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/augmented-reality-tetris-game-uses-kinect-hack-wiimote-smooth/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/augmented-reality-tetris-game-uses-kinect-hack-wiimote-smooth/#comments What does it take for a gaming classic to survive in a world ruled by titles like Portal 2 and Homefront? A Kinect hack, a Wiimote, and some electronic elbow grease, apparently. Trinity College student Keysosaurus -- as he's know to his YouTube pals -- has used a bit of C#, XNA, and OpenNI coding to play 3D augmented reality Tetris using Kinect body controls and a Wiimote. The Kinect gestures do most of the work, rotating the board, zooming the camera in and out, and moving the pieces into place, while the Nintendo controller is used to rotate. Video's after the break, but beware, the familiar strains of "Korobeiniki" have been replaced by smooth guitar jazz, so turn the volume up at your own risk.

Continue reading Augmented reality Tetris game uses Kinect hack, Wiimote, smooth jazz (video)

Augmented reality Tetris game uses Kinect hack, Wiimote, smooth jazz (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>araugmented realityAugmentedRealitydiydublinDublin IrelandDublinIrelandhackhackinghacksjazzkinectkinect hackkinect-hacksKinectHackMicrosoftnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiismooth jazzSmoothJazzTetrisTrinity CollegeTrinityCollegevideoWiiWiimoteWiimoteHackxbox 360Xbox360youtubeThu, 21 Apr 2011 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[German students make life-sized VR Fruit Ninja, declare war on digital produce (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/german-students-make-life-sized-vr-fruit-ninja-declare-war-on-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/german-students-make-life-sized-vr-fruit-ninja-declare-war-on-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/29/german-students-make-life-sized-vr-fruit-ninja-declare-war-on-d/#comments Do you enjoy the produce-slashing action that Fruit Ninja affords, but feel constrained by the meager display capabilities of handheld devices? Well, some German students from FH Wedel University of Applied Sciences have created a VR version of the game to make your dreams of having more massive melons fly at your face come true. Using a CAVE four-walled virtual environment to display the hurtling fruit and a modified Wiimote to do the slicing and dicing, players can exorcise their cantaloupe and kumquat demons in a life-sized fruit cleaving frenzy -- with none of the Gallagher-style mess. See it in action after the break, just be sure to don your Kikou first.

Continue reading German students make life-sized VR Fruit Ninja, declare war on digital produce (video)

German students make life-sized VR Fruit Ninja, declare war on digital produce (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cavefh wedelfh wedel universityFhWedelFhWedelUniversityFruit NinjaFruitNinjahackhacksmotion controlMotionControlvideovirtual realityVirtualRealityvrwiimoteTue, 29 Mar 2011 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[EVOtainment System brings emulation greatness to the HTC EVO on a Wiimote and a prayer (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/evotainment-system-brings-emulation-greatness-to-the-htc-evo-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/evotainment-system-brings-emulation-greatness-to-the-htc-evo-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/08/evotainment-system-brings-emulation-greatness-to-the-htc-evo-on/#commentsEVOtainment System gives brings emulation to the HTC EVO on a Wiimote and a prayer In a world full of cheap, plastic Wiimote accessories, aisles that overflow with flimsy little steering wheels for Mario Kart, one man found purpose. One man found something good to do with them. One man created the ridiculous contraption you see above. That man is Jack Malone, crafter of this the so-called EVOtainment System. It's a Wii racing wheel from Nerf that's been drilled out and augmented to enable a Classic Controller to join the party, backed with a strip of 3M Dual Lock. Up top a universal GPS mount clings desperately on to his HTC EVO, which connects over Bluetooth to the Wiimote. It's emulatory bliss in a design that's only a little bit less chunkier than the Game Gripper.

Update: Video after the break!

Gallery: EVOtainment


[Thanks, Jack]

Continue reading EVOtainment System brings emulation greatness to the HTC EVO on a Wiimote and a prayer (video)

EVOtainment System brings emulation greatness to the HTC EVO on a Wiimote and a prayer (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic controllerClassicControlleremulationevoevotainmentevotainment systemEvotainmentSystemhtcnerfvideowii remotewiimoteWiiRemoteTue, 08 Mar 2011 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Nao robot gets a new charging station, Kinect / Wiimote controls]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/07/nao-robot-gets-a-new-charging-station-kinect-wiimote-controls/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/07/nao-robot-gets-a-new-charging-station-kinect-wiimote-controls/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/07/nao-robot-gets-a-new-charging-station-kinect-wiimote-controls/#comments
Robots that are able to find a charger and plug themselves in may not be that unique anymore, but most of those chargers tend to leave the robot with little to do while it replenishes its batteries. Not so with this new charger developed by Aldebaran Robotics for its Nao robot, which basically consists of a retractable extension cord that leaves the robot free to continue interacting with its owner, or simply sit down and chill out as the case may be. What's more, while that comes from Aldebaran itself, we're also now starting to see some results out of the company's new developer program, and it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that one of the first standout projects involves Wiimote and Kinect controls. Head on past the break to see both it and the new charging station on video.

Continue reading Nao robot gets a new charging station, Kinect / Wiimote controls

Nao robot gets a new charging station, Kinect / Wiimote controls originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 20:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aldebaranaldebaran roboticsAldebaranRoboticschargerchargingcharging stationChargingStationkinectnaonao robotNaoRobotvideowiimoteMon, 07 Mar 2011 20:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect hack gets a Wiimote assist, stomps all over Dead Space 2]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/11/kinect-hack-gets-a-wiimote-assist-stomps-all-over-dead-space-2/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/11/kinect-hack-gets-a-wiimote-assist-stomps-all-over-dead-space-2/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/11/kinect-hack-gets-a-wiimote-assist-stomps-all-over-dead-space-2/#comments
It's not the first time that a Kinect hack has incorporated a Wiimote, but this demonstration from YouTube user Kick755 is certainly one of the more impressive examples to date -- even if it's still not quite ready to fully replace a controller. As with similar hacks, this one relies on the FAAST emulator for the Kinect end of the equation and GlovePIE for the Wiimote, but it has one notable feature that the others lack: the ability to quite literally stomp on your enemies in Dead Space 2. See for yourself after the break.

Continue reading Kinect hack gets a Wiimote assist, stomps all over Dead Space 2

Kinect hack gets a Wiimote assist, stomps all over Dead Space 2 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead spacedead space 2DeadSpaceDeadSpace2faastglovepiehackkinectkinect hackKinectHackvideowiimoteFri, 11 Feb 2011 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect hacked to work with Flash, Wiimotes, we can't imagine what's next (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/12/kinect-hacked-to-work-with-flash-wiimotes-we-cant-imagine-wha/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/12/kinect-hacked-to-work-with-flash-wiimotes-we-cant-imagine-wha/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/12/kinect-hacked-to-work-with-flash-wiimotes-we-cant-imagine-wha/#commentsKinect hacked to work with Flash, Wiimotes, we can't imagine what's next It's safe to say that, on the console gaming front, the Wiimote and the Kinect are competitors. But, take a step away to the world of PC gaming, and suddenly they can get along like old chums. That's what's demonstrated in the video below, created by YouTuber demize2010, which shows Call of Duty controlled by Wiimote, Nunchuk, and Kinect, enabling reloads, knife attacks, and peeking around corners. But wait, there's more! The Blitz marketing agency has worked up a demo in which the Kinect can be used with a Flash interface, which doesn't look too dissimilar from what Microsoft uses on the Xbox. This could open the door to fancier websites -- if indeed any large number of PC owners ever actually wind up buying a Kinect. Both videos can be seen below.

Kinect hacked to work with Flash, Wiimotes, we can't imagine what's next (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 20:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackhackedkinectmicrosoftnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiivideowiimotexboxxbox 360Xbox360Wed, 12 Jan 2011 20:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic the Hedgehog will charge your Wiimote inductively, but he won't like it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/27/sonic-the-hedgehog-will-charge-your-wiimote-inductively-but-he/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/27/sonic-the-hedgehog-will-charge-your-wiimote-inductively-but-he/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/27/sonic-the-hedgehog-will-charge-your-wiimote-inductively-but-he/#commentsSonic the Hedgehog will charge your Wiimote inductively, but he won't like it He may be flashing a peace sign, but you can tell from the look in his eyes that Sonic isn't exactly thrilled to be doing anything to support Nintendo. This is the cat that made blast processing a reality, whose addiction for gold rings is legendary, and who hasn't starred in a truly great game since, well, since Sega stopped making hardware, now reduced to this. Look at him, perched atop a mock floating platform, brown and tan checkerboard base with a green top where you can set your Wiimotes for charging without stripping them of their prophylactics. Though the press release makes no mention of this, we were led to believe that this is not actually powered by your AC outlet, instead by the spirits of fuzzy little squirrels and rabbits trapped within, making this $49.99 figurine from Mad Catz all the more nefarious.

Sonic the Hedgehog will charge your Wiimote inductively, but he won't like it originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargercontrollerinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingmad catzMadCatznintendosonicsonic the hedgehogSonicTheHedgehogwiiwiimoteMon, 27 Dec 2010 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ uDraw Gametablet for Wii review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/15/thq-udraw-gametablet-for-wii-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/15/thq-udraw-gametablet-for-wii-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/15/thq-udraw-gametablet-for-wii-review/#comments There comes a time when fiddly buttons and D-pads just don't do it anymore, a time when you need a little more control. Nintendo was first of the current generation to show its hand with the fling-sensitive Wiimote, and of course Sony and Microsoft are both now doing similarly intended things with the PlayStation Move and the Kinect, respectively. Now THQ is trying to do its own little new thing by launching the $69.99 uDraw Gametablet on the Wii, supplanting the wavy wand with a stylus. Next logical step in gaming? Tool to unleash a torrent of creativity? Half-baked third-party accessory? Read on to find out.

Gallery: THQ uDraw Gametablet

Continue reading THQ uDraw Gametablet for Wii review

THQ uDraw Gametablet for Wii review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdrawingfeaturefeaturedfeaturesgametabletnintendoreviewstylustabletthqudrawudraw gametabletUdrawGametabletvideowiiwii remotewiimoteWiiRemoteMon, 15 Nov 2010 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Sunflex Snakebyte Premium Remote XL+ does integrated MotionPlus, third-party style]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/28/sunflex-snakebyte-premium-remote-xl-does-integrated-motionplus/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/28/sunflex-snakebyte-premium-remote-xl-does-integrated-motionplus/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/28/sunflex-snakebyte-premium-remote-xl-does-integrated-motionplus/#comments It looks as if we've located the proverbial "ugly stick": behold the Snakebyte Premium Remote XL+ Wii controller. It's not the first third-party Wiimote to have built-in MotionPlus, in fact, Nyko beat Nintendo's own upcoming Wii Remote Plus to market with the Wand+. Still, the Sunflex's Premium Remote XL+ has a certain lack of stylistic direction that may surpass even the drab gray Wand+ for the title of "ugliest Wiimote." The Snakebyte, which includes USB-rechargeable batteries in addition to its traditional duties, is out now for $35, $5 under Nintendo's pricetag.

Sunflex Snakebyte Premium Remote XL+ does integrated MotionPlus, third-party style originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>premium remotepremium remote xl+PremiumRemotePremiumRemoteXl+snakebytesnakebyte premium remote xlSnakebytePremiumRemoteXlsunflexwiiwii remotewiimoteWiiRemoteThu, 28 Oct 2010 21:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Remote Plus hits Europe on 5 November]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/18/wii-remote-plus-hits-europe-on-5-november/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/18/wii-remote-plus-hits-europe-on-5-november/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/18/wii-remote-plus-hits-europe-on-5-november/#comments While we've already seen it get official in Japan, Europe is first from the gate with an official launch date for the new Wii Remote Plus: November 5th. Unfortunately, we've not been given a price. What we do know is that it will launch in the four colors shown above and integrate into a single Wiimote what used to required a separate Wii Remote and Wii MotionPlus add-on. Too bad Nintendo's pricing and availability announcement strategy isn't as simple.

Wii Remote Plus hits Europe on 5 November originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dateeuropelaunch dateLaunchDateremote plusRemotePlusretailretail dateRetailDatewii remotewii remote pluswiimoteWiiRemoteWiiRemotePlusMon, 18 Oct 2010 08:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Shinobii's table tennis bat for Wii hitting shelves soon for $70]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/17/shinobiis-table-tennis-bat-for-wii-hitting-shelves-soon-for-70/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/17/shinobiis-table-tennis-bat-for-wii-hitting-shelves-soon-for-70/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/17/shinobiis-table-tennis-bat-for-wii-hitting-shelves-soon-for-70/#comments Remember that prototype Wii tablet tennis controller that was reviewed (and adored) recently? You know -- the one that had no official maker and no official release date? Turns out that very device is made by Shinobii Technologies, and the outfit is finally coming clean with a bona fide version that's suitable for public release. The TT Champion Bat is said to be a true 1:1 replica of an actual table tennis paddle in both size and weight, and the electronics required to interact with the Wii console are all integrated; in other words, this is your Wiimote when playing a tennis or ping pong title. There's also a rechargeable battery within to keep things humming along, and best of all, it'll soon be available online and at traditional video game retailers throughout the EU and North America for $69.99. Hello, stocking stuffer.

Gallery: Shinobii Technologies TT Champion Bat for Wii

Continue reading Shinobii's table tennis bat for Wii hitting shelves soon for $70

Shinobii's table tennis bat for Wii hitting shelves soon for $70 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 Oct 2010 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllernintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiiping pongPingPongsporttable tennisTable Tennis BatTableTennisTableTennisBatTT Champion BatTtChampionBatwiiwii remotewiimoteWiiRemoteSun, 17 Oct 2010 14:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Lego Wiimote bricks your Wii faster than tainted homebrew]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/13/lego-wiimote-bricks-your-wii-faster-than-tainted-homebrew/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/13/lego-wiimote-bricks-your-wii-faster-than-tainted-homebrew/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/13/lego-wiimote-bricks-your-wii-faster-than-tainted-homebrew/#comments You love Lego don't you? Those tiny bricks of colorful acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastic are what keeps you going in-between George Lucas' fits of cinematography. Then check this out, the official Lego Play and Build Remote for Nintendo Wii. Of course, only bits of the remote are suitable for Lego brick you silly silly man, otherwise it wouldn't be compatible with standard chargers and attachments like the battery cover and Wii MotionPlus. Still, if you can imagine playing Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga using nothing but The Force and this controller then you're already half way home to living the dream -- a journey you can complete on October 16th for $39.99.

Gallery: Lego Wiimote bricks your Wii faster than tainted homebrew

Lego Wiimote bricks your Wii faster than tainted homebrew originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 07:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bda gamerBdaGamerlegoLego Play and Build Remotelego wii controllerLegoWiiControllernintendowiiwii remotewiimoteWiiRemoteWed, 13 Oct 2010 07:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo announces Wii Remote Plus with built-in MotionPlus tracking]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/nintendo-announces-wii-remote-plus-with-built-in-motionplus-trac/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/nintendo-announces-wii-remote-plus-with-built-in-motionplus-trac/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/nintendo-announces-wii-remote-plus-with-built-in-motionplus-trac/#comments As a follow-up to this morning's announcement, we now have some shots of Nintendo's colorful new Wiimote. Still no extra details, but what we do have is confirmation from Nintendo that they are indeed building the Wii Remote Plus, which combines a Wii Remote with its Wii MotionPlus gyro add-on into one Wii Remote-sized package. We spotted the controller in a FlingSmash bundle last week, the telltale "smile" text below the Wii logo, and now all we really need is a price and a launch date. Hopefully we'll be getting all of these colors when this lands in the US as well, but since this is a Japanese presentation that Nintendo is making this announcement, we can't be too sure.

Nintendo announces Wii Remote Plus with built-in MotionPlus tracking originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllermotion control gamingmotion controllerMotionControlGamingMotionControllermotionplusnintendowiiwii remotewii remote pluswiimotewiimote plusWiimotePlusWiiRemoteWiiRemotePlusWed, 29 Sep 2010 16:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Wii Remote Plus with built-in 'Plus' tipped in FlingSmash bundle?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/nintendo-wii-remote-plus-with-built-in-plus-tipped-in-flingsma/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/nintendo-wii-remote-plus-with-built-in-plus-tipped-in-flingsma/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/nintendo-wii-remote-plus-with-built-in-plus-tipped-in-flingsma/#comments We've been expecting a Wiimote with built-in MotionPlus for a while now -- after all, Nyko already builds the Wand+ with those succulent MotionPlus gyros built-in. Still, Nintendo has seemed slow on the uptake, outside of a mysterious FCC berth in May, so we were surprised to see this upcoming first party, MotionPlus-required FlingSmash title arrive on a GameStop order page with "Wii Remote Plus inside!" emblazoned on the box. Interestingly, the product description still mentions attaching the MotionPlus "accessory" to your Wii Remote, but the Wiimote in the picture does look just slightly different than normal with a curved bit of text below the Wii logo, and when Eurogamer pinged Nintendo Europe about it, a spokesperson said the Wii Remote Plus "is real" but "We have nothing to announce on this at the moment." Hopefully this all clears up soon enough so that millions of Wii owners can have an excuse to buy a new game in the noble name of hardware procurement.

Nintendo Wii Remote Plus with built-in 'Plus' tipped in FlingSmash bundle? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 09:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecontrollerflingsmashmotion gamingMotionGamingmotionplusnintendowii remote pluswiimotewiimote plusWiimotePlusWiiRemotePlusFri, 24 Sep 2010 09:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Ping Pong paddle reviewed, loved, unavailable for purchase]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/16/wii-ping-pong-paddle-reviewed-loved-unavailable-for-purchase/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/16/wii-ping-pong-paddle-reviewed-loved-unavailable-for-purchase/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/16/wii-ping-pong-paddle-reviewed-loved-unavailable-for-purchase/#comments
We've seen our share of downright silly controllers for the Wii (we're looking at you, CTA), and we were expecting more of the same, but we'll be darned if no less an authority than self-avowed Wii Sports Table Tennis addict Paul Govan (from Gamepeople.co.uk) hasn't given the Wii Sports Table Tennis Bat high marks all around: it's weighted like a proper paddle, the build quality is decent, comes with a battery and a charger and, most importantly, it "replicates all the features of [the] Wiimote and MotionPlus perfectly." Unfortunately, the reviewer states that this is a prototype from an as yet unnamed Chinese manufacturer, and has no idea when they might become available. Way to harsh our buzz, man.

Wii Ping Pong paddle reviewed, loved, unavailable for purchase originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllergamegamingmotionplusnintendopaddleping pongPingPongtable tennisTableTenniswiiwii sportswii sports resortWii Sports Table TennisWii Sports Table Tennis BatwiimoteWiiSportsWiiSportsResortWiiSportsTableTennisWiiSportsTableTennisBatThu, 16 Sep 2010 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Nyko Wand+ review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/08/nyko-wand-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/08/nyko-wand-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/08/nyko-wand-review/#commentsNyko Wand+ review For demanding gamers, initial excitement upon procuring a Nintendo Wii was quickly dampened by disappointment: the durned Wiimote wasn't nearly as precise as we'd all hoped it would be. It took a couple of years for Nintendo to step up and fix the issue, releasing the MotionPlus and finally making the Wiimote work for sword-fighting games and the like. But, that left us all stuck with a dongle hanging off the bottom, causing compatibility issues with many early peripherals. The Nyko Wand+ is the solution, putting the MotionPlus right inside a stock-size controller, as it should have been in the first place. In some ways, it's better than first-party.

Gallery: Nyko Wand+

Continue reading Nyko Wand+ review

Nyko Wand+ review originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featurefeaturedfeaturesgame controllerGameControllernintendonykoreviewreviewedwandwand+wiiwiimoteWed, 08 Sep 2010 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Classic Controller Pro gets gilded for revamped GoldenEye 007]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/wii-classic-controller-pro-gets-gilded-for-revamped-goldeneye-00/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/wii-classic-controller-pro-gets-gilded-for-revamped-goldeneye-00/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/11/wii-classic-controller-pro-gets-gilded-for-revamped-goldeneye-00/#comments Alright, gamers -- time to fess up. Even if you're a self-proclaimed new schooler, there's no way you're passing up the option to flash back to yesteryear in order to play GoldenEye 007 the way it was meant to be played. The Wii remake of the game actually doesn't look all that different than the original when it comes to polygon count, but for those who aren't keen on taking control of Pierce Brosnan (let us dream, okay?) with a Wiimote, there's the gilded Classic Controller Pro. The limited run controller itself is a familiar beast, but rather than being coated in a standard black hue, this one will be doused in much the same color as 007's Golden Gun. It'll reportedly ship later this year within a "Classic Edition" game + accessory bundle for $69.99 (a $20 upcharge over the software alone), but it's still unclear if it'll be available as a standalone peripheral. Not like it matters -- you know you're buying this game, anyway.

Continue reading Wii Classic Controller Pro gets gilded for revamped GoldenEye 007

Wii Classic Controller Pro gets gilded for revamped GoldenEye 007 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>007accessoryActivisionClassic Controller ProClassicControllerProcontrolcontrollerController ProControllerProgame controllerGameControllergamepadgaminggoldgolden gungoldeneyeGoldenEye 007goldeneye classicGoldeneye007GoldeneyeClassicGoldenGunjames bondJamesBondnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiiperipheralWiiWii Classic Controller ProWiiClassicControllerProwiimoteWed, 11 Aug 2010 12:22:00 EST<![CDATA[EA's 'NHL Slapshot' packs Gretzky-approved Wiimote hockey stick]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/01/eas-nhl-slapshot-packs-gretzky-approved-wiimote-hockey-stick/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/01/eas-nhl-slapshot-packs-gretzky-approved-wiimote-hockey-stick/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/01/eas-nhl-slapshot-packs-gretzky-approved-wiimote-hockey-stick/#comments Believe it or not, this isn't the first hockey stick accessory for the Wiimote -- the folks from CTA naturally have you covered there as well -- but it is the first to be bundled with a game, and garner the glowing recommendation of Wayne Gretzky himself. The game in question here is EA's forthcoming NHL Slapshot, which comes with the pint-sized hockey stick pictured above (just one, it seems) that holds both the Wiimote and nunchuck -- it also thankfully has a foam blade that should prevent any TV disasters. Just a gimmick, you say? Not according to Gretzky, who says that it's actually "very realistic" and "almost like playing in the NHL" -- yes, really. Interestingly, the game's creator also seems to have hinted at future versions for Natal and PlayStation Move, saying that the Wii version is "going to be a really good test." Look for it to be available on September 7th.

EA's 'NHL Slapshot' packs Gretzky-approved Wiimote hockey stick originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accesoryAccessorygretzkyhockeyhockey stickHockeySticknhlnhl slapshotNhlSlapshotWayne GretzkyWayneGretzkywiiwii accessorywii peripheralWiiAccessorywiimotewiimote hockey stickWiimoteHockeyStickWiiPeripheralTue, 01 Jun 2010 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Undulating Flux project uses Wiimotes, Arduino boards to transmit dancer's movements]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/undulating-flux-project-uses-wiimotes-arduino-boards-to-transmi/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/undulating-flux-project-uses-wiimotes-arduino-boards-to-transmi/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/28/undulating-flux-project-uses-wiimotes-arduino-boards-to-transmi/#commentsUndulating Flux is UC Irvine student David Resnick's attempt at creating a "sensory augmentation system" that uses a dancer (or "vibrationist") to "transduce music into tactile sensations." In layman's terms, a dancer's movements are sent via Wiimote to an Arduino-equipped chair. The chair's vibrations correspond to the dancer's movements, allowing an observer to see, hear, and "feel" the dancing. There's a lot more to it than that, actually -- feel free to hit up the source link for all the nitty gritty, and make sure you peep the video after the break.

Continue reading Undulating Flux project uses Wiimotes, Arduino boards to transmit dancer's movements

Undulating Flux project uses Wiimotes, Arduino boards to transmit dancer's movements originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 May 2010 00:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danceDavid ResnickDavidResnickflowflow stateFlowStatehacknintendouc irvineUcIrvineundulating fluxUndulatingFluxvideowiimoteFri, 28 May 2010 00:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Weighted Gloves turns gamer into virtual badass, actual outcast]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/26/wii-weighted-gloves-turns-gamer-into-virtual-badass-actual-outc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/26/wii-weighted-gloves-turns-gamer-into-virtual-badass-actual-outc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/26/wii-weighted-gloves-turns-gamer-into-virtual-badass-actual-outc/#comments
We're beginning to encounter an odd psychological effect of too much exposure to CTA's wild and wacky game accessories. It's almost as if we've developed some strange variant of Stockholm Syndrome that's tricked us into believing that the Weighted Gloves for Wii are worth twenty bucks. At least the premise makes sense -- strap your Wiimote and Wii Nunchuk into these weighted gloves and start in on your fave boxing game. The space-age velcro fasteners will hold your controllers tightly in place as you throw punches and dodge jabs with the best of 'em. And if you really want an out-of-this-world experience, try it while wearing wings! Get a closer look after the break.

Continue reading Wii Weighted Gloves turns gamer into virtual badass, actual outcast

Wii Weighted Gloves turns gamer into virtual badass, actual outcast originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 May 2010 17:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ctacta digitalCtaDigitalglovesnintendoweighted glovesweighted gloves for wiiWeightedGlovesWeightedGlovesForWiiwiiwii nunchuckwiimoteWiiNunchuckWed, 26 May 2010 17:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Wiimote RVL-036 mysteriously clears the FCC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/20/nintendo-wiimote-rvl-036-mysteriously-clears-the-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/20/nintendo-wiimote-rvl-036-mysteriously-clears-the-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/20/nintendo-wiimote-rvl-036-mysteriously-clears-the-fcc/#comments We can't say for sure what's new here but that wireframe outline is most definitely a Wiimote. The Nintendo-branded Bluetooth device just passed through the FCC courtesy of Hon Hai Precision, aka Foxconn. There's very little in the way of detail here other than a new RVL-036 model number reminiscent of the console's "revolution" roots. Perhaps the new Wiimote finally integrates the MotionPlus add-on? Who knows, but it certainly makes sense given Miyamoto's recent comments. At least we can be certain that it's exactly 12 times better than the model RVL-003 Wiimote shipping today. Another FCC document grab after the break.

Continue reading Nintendo Wiimote RVL-036 mysteriously clears the FCC

Nintendo Wiimote RVL-036 mysteriously clears the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 May 2010 07:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fccfoxconnhon haihon hai precisionHonHaiHonHaiPrecisionmotionplusnintendorevolutionRVL-003RVL-036wiiwii remotewiimoteWiiRemoteThu, 20 May 2010 07:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Rowing Machine aims to sculpt abs, achieves belly laughs (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/18/wii-rowing-machine-aims-to-sculpt-abs-achieves-belly-laughs-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/18/wii-rowing-machine-aims-to-sculpt-abs-achieves-belly-laughs-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/18/wii-rowing-machine-aims-to-sculpt-abs-achieves-belly-laughs-vi/#comments CTA strikes again! The company known for its unorthodox (and rather silly) game controllers is back with a plastic drawbar / foot pedal combo that is supposed to be "very similar to a rowing machine you would find at the gym," although we highly doubt it. Designed for games like Wii Sports Resort and Jillian Michaels' Angry Sports Resort, this is something that would probably only enter your home as an ill-considered Christmas gift before gathering dust in the back of a closet, alongside your Bowling Ball and Football controllers. But we must admit, even if the company's products are dubious, its infomercials are an endless source of entertainment. See for yourself after the break. As for the rowing machine, it's up for pre-order now at Amazon, as if you care.

Continue reading Wii Rowing Machine aims to sculpt abs, achieves belly laughs (video)

Wii Rowing Machine aims to sculpt abs, achieves belly laughs (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 May 2010 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerctacta digitalCtaDigitalnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiirowing machineRowingMachinevideowiiwii rowing machinewii sports resortwiimoteWiiRowingMachineWiiSportsResortTue, 18 May 2010 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Student moves quadriplegics with Wiimote wheelchair control (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/14/student-moves-quadriplegics-with-wiimote-wheelchair-control-vid/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/14/student-moves-quadriplegics-with-wiimote-wheelchair-control-vid/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/14/student-moves-quadriplegics-with-wiimote-wheelchair-control-vid/#comments There were certainly a couple whiz kids at Intel's International Science and Engineering Fair this year, but high school senior John Hinckel's a regular MacGyver: he built a wheelchair remote control out of a couple sheets of transparent plastic, four sliding furniture rails and some string. A Nintendo Wiimote goes in your hat and tells the whole system what to do -- simply tilt your head in any direction, and accelerometer readings are sent over Bluetooth. The receiving laptop activates microcontrollers, directing servo motors to pull the strings, and acrylic gates push the joystick accordingly to steer your vehicle. We tried on the headset for ourselves and came away fairly impressed -- it's no mind control, but for $534 in parts, it just might do. Apparently, we weren't the only ones who thought so, as patents are pending, and a manufacturer of wheelchair control systems has already expressed interest in commercializing the idea. See the young inventor show it off after the break.

Continue reading Student moves quadriplegics with Wiimote wheelchair control (video)

Student moves quadriplegics with Wiimote wheelchair control (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 May 2010 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accelerometerDIYdo it yourselfDoItYourselfhackhackshands-onIntel International Science and Engineering FairIntel ISEF 2010IntelInternationalScienceAndEngineeringFairIntelIsef2010ISEFISEF 2010Isef2010John HinckelJohnHinckelmodmodsmotion controlmotion controlledmotion controllermotion controlsMotionControlMotionControlledMotionControllerMotionControlsNintendoNintendo WiiNintendo Wii RemoteNintendoWiiNintendoWiiRemotesciencevideowheelchairwheelchairswii remotewii remote controlwiimotewiimote hackwiimote hacksWiimoteHackWiimoteHacksWiiRemoteWiiRemoteControlFri, 14 May 2010 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Controller Demo gets active, Android and Wiimote handle Donkey Kong on video]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/09/wii-controller-demo-gets-active-android-and-wiimote-handle-donk/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/09/wii-controller-demo-gets-active-android-and-wiimote-handle-donk/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/09/wii-controller-demo-gets-active-android-and-wiimote-handle-donk/#comments We knew the Wii Controller Demo app (now known as "Wii Controller IME") was close to being able to interact with Android in a meaningful way, but we certainly didn't expect to see Average Joes playing Donkey Kong on their Nexus One devices this soon. Not that we're kvetching or anything -- and in fact, we'd argue that this landed at a perfect time for you hard-workin' Android owners to give this all a spin over the weekend. Jump on past the break for a look at the setup procedure as well as bona fide proof that a Wiimote and Android can indeed work together for the greater good. Mind those coconuts, though.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Update: Whoa, we just spotted that this app is actually pikipirs' completely free Wiimote Controller app (available now to download in alpha), which just so happened to surface at about the same time as Ryan Frawley's Will Controller IME (also available now). The more the merrier, right?

Continue reading Wii Controller Demo gets active, Android and Wiimote handle Donkey Kong on video

Wii Controller Demo gets active, Android and Wiimote handle Donkey Kong on video originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 09 May 2010 01:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbluetoothcontrolleremulationemulatorgooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidnexus oneNexusOnenintendonintendo wiimoteNintendoWiimotevideowiiWii Controller DemoWii Controller IMEwii remoteWiiControllerDemoWiiControllerImewiimoteWiiRemoteSun, 09 May 2010 01:15:00 EST