Cordless Playstation Controllers

CTA introduces assault rifle controller for PS3

2010-07-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

Oscar Mike, Tango down and so on and so forth.

CTA have brought us some shamelessly bizarre pieces of gaming tat in the past (remember this?), but it's latest PS3 offering raises (or possibly lowers) the bar. Pithily named the CTA Assault Rifle Controller for PS3, it's... well, it's an assault rifle-shaped controller for the PS3. Sort of.

So you plug in the USB stick, point it at the TV and get right down to whacking Tangos by aiming down the sights, right? Well, no. It's not a light gun; it's just a toy rifle with PlayStation controller buttons on it. It's less the Wii steering wheel, and more like a racing controller that's shaped like a car bonnet. For $65.

CTA released a video ad for the accessory, in which a man named Ben wears an army costume and tells us that "the assault rifle for the PS3 is the number one piece of equipment any gamer needs to wreak havoc in first person shooter games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 or Battlefield Bad Company 2". Then he runs into a crowd of Battlefield enemies, fires blindly into the air and doesn't hit any of them - but what the CTA Assault Rifle lacks in accuracy and practicality it makes up for with a built in speaker that makes gun sounds (even when the rifle isn't synced to the PS3, Ben tells us).

The CTA Assault Rifle controller for PS3 is out in the States in August. In the meantime, you can check out the video ad for CTA Assault Rifle here. Stay tuned until the end for a shot of Soldier Ben leaping out menacingly from behind a potted plant.

Motion control for all PS3 games - Sony

2009-06-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

SCEA CEO Jack Tretton believes the company's new motion control technology could be used on all PlayStation 3 games.

Sony and Microsoft's motion control technologies were the talk of E3 - with Microsoft's Natal seeming more technologically impressive. But is the PlayStation 3 solution more practical for most games? SCEA's Jack Tretton believes so. "Personally, it’s very difficult for me to perceive God of War 3 being played with the Wii controller," he said. "It’s a different experience that doesn’t lend itself to certain types of games. [But] I think our [motion] controller can be used with every game that’s on the system now and every game we’re working on." I've a suspicion for all Natal's wow factor Tretton may be right. Source: CNBC

http://ps2.boomtown.net/en_uk/articles/art.view.php?id=18128

PS3 Dual Shock 3 controller gets silver color on June 24

2009-04-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

The PS3 Dual-Shock 3 controller is about to meet a new silver sheen. The silver colored PS3 controller will release this June 24th and is available now for pre-order on EBgames.com for $55.

Naturally, the controller’s only difference is the new look, otherwise its functionally exactly the same. Hopefully more colors will follow though cause this thing looks NICE if you ask me. Previous to this the controller was only available in black (In the U.S.).

Features of the Dual Shock 3 Silver-colored controller include:

* Pressure-sensitive buttons Feel the controller vibrate with each hit, crash or explosion.

* Sixaxis highly sensitive motion technology Your natural movements become part of the action. And the controller becomes a natural extension of your body. The Sixaxis motion-sensing system allows users to maneuver the controller itself. With this system, sensors read when a player angles, tilts, thrusts, or pulls the controller, all in real-time and with high precision. And it’s available in both the Sixaxis wireless controller and the Dual Shock 3 wireless controller.

* Bluetooth technology means no wires. With the Dual Shock 3’s Bluetooth technology you can play completely untethered.

* Multiplayer gaming Connect up to seven wireless controllers at one once for serious multiplayer gaming.

* Charging Charge the Dual Shock 3 with the PlayStation 3 system using the controller’s USB cable. And you can even plug it in during gameplay, so you’ll never miss a beat.

* Compatible games So many compatible games! Check game for compatibility.

http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2009/04/20/ps3-dual-shock-3-controller-gets-silver-color-on-june-24.htm

Review : Street Fighter IV Fightpad for Xbox 360 and PS3

2009-02-17T08:28:00.000-08:00

Score: 90 Putting up a Fight!
This past weekend I was out helping a friend on a home theater shopping expedition trip and I was overjoyed to see that the Mad Catz Street Fighter IV Fightpad for Xbox 360 was finally in stock.

These are full-size gamepads specifically designed for fighting games with a highly responsive and thumb friendly digital D-Pad and six flat buttons on arranged on the three by three Capcom style layout. I gladly handed over my $40 and could not wait to take it home and crack open the space plastic and get my greasy mitts all over it. It is stylish and looks cool to boot.

The controller is bigger than I expected and feels really good. It is nice and smooth with an ergonomic design. I was pleasantly surprised by the rubberized back and it is pretty obvious that they spent a lot of time talking to fighting game fans about how to make a good controller for fighting games.

The big feature is the big D-pad. It is a joy to throw fireballs, dragon punches with it and I was actually pulling off Zangeif pile drivers without too much effort. It does not begin to compare to the D-pads on the Xbox 360, Wii and PS3 controllers. This bad boy is raised and highly responsive. I never felt like it was registering a command that I didn't intend to give it.
The buttons were also a joy to behold and are just are asking to be mashed. They were flat mesas and had a good click response. I was pulling off super moves with E. Honda and Chun-Li with ease. It was a little weird to have the RT and RB buttons mapped to the buttons on the front of the controller. There are two buttons on the top that are mapped to the LB and LT buttons. I had to adjust the button mapping for Street Fighter II HD Remix and Street Fighter III but it worked flawlessly post-remapping. It was also easy to pull off three button combo presses.

I like this pad more than the Sega Saturn and NeoGeo gamepad and that is saying a lot. This is as good as the likes of Hori. The Xbox 360 needed this gamepad at system LAUNCH. I will never ever play a fighting game using the Xbox 360 controller ever again now that I have this bad sucka.

There is a weird three position toggle switch on the back of the controller so you can have the D-pad control the left and right analog sticks. It has this since there are no analog sticks on the pad. There is an adjustable Turbo button functionality but no macro (thank God.). There is also the back and start buttons down by the mini guide button on lower part of the face and a standard Xbox Live headset jack. The Messenger Chat Pad is not going to fit. The Xbox 360 version of the pad is wired via USB while the PS3 pad is wireless.

The biggest disappointment that I have with it is that there is no rumble. Both Hori and MadCatz themselves have included rumble motors. I like rumble with my fighting games and since MadCatz was able to fit rumble motors in the PS2 RetroCon I don't see why they left them out of this pad.

MegaMan 9, Castle Crashers, Castlevania, Ikaruga, Soul Calibur IV and all these old school XBLA games are going to smoke with this.

At $40 it is cheaper than getting a full size joystick and this might be my default Xbox 360 for most games that don't need analog sticks. I loved this gamepad. it is the best thing to a retro gamepad on the Xbox 360 and PS3 and even if you are going to lay down the serious cash for a joystick I think that this is a great gamepad to have in your arsenal of controllers.

http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/digitaljoystick/archives/162124.asp?from=blog_last3

Peak Starpex Guitar Controller Review

2008-12-04T09:31:00.000-08:00

It’s difficult to believe that three years ago today we were playing Guitar Hero on our PlayStation 2 with its squeaky 3/4 sized plastic Gibson SG controller. Within a short time the franchise evolved into a full band experience with Rock Band and Guitar Hero World Tour. With each new game came new guitar controllers officially licensed by Gibson, Fender, and various third-party controllers such as TAC and Nyko.

While some gamers may be satisfied with the standard, first party plastic controllers, others may be looking for a more realistic experience. Enter the Peak Starpex PS2/PS3 wireless guitar controllers, the first full size, wooden guitar controller in wide supply.

As Jen & Smeeguel have shown in their unwrapping photos, the Starpex has the construction of a real electric guitar with the guts of a plastic guitar controller. The Starpex controller measures 38 3/4 inches from the end of the headstock to the tip of the metal strap knob. The widest point in the body measures at 13 inches, which is a tad too large for my real Gibson SG style guitar case. The wooden neck measures at 18 1/2 in. long and features five fret buttons, and five solo buttons.

Peak offers three different guitar models- Black Sunburst, Dead Starburst (dark red) and Obsidian (black). Each model has a heavily high-gloss, varnished body, bolted neck, real metal tuning pegs, metal screws, and metal strap knobs. The varnished body is prone to finger prints and smudges (much like the PS3.) The wood is perfectly sanded and contains no niches or irregularities. Peak’s Starpex is absolutely gorgeous.

From far away one can mistaken the Starpex as a real guitar. This happened often while I was running errands in New York City. While waiting for a friend in SoHo, a car stopped in front of me at a red light. The driver opened his passenger window and asked “Hey, is that a real guitar or a Guitar Hero controller?” Imagine my surprise! I walked towards the car, lifted the controller up, and told him that it was a full sized wooden controller for Guitar Hero. He asked who made it and I promptly responded “Peak!” The driver thanked me and drove away at the green light. Several minutes later my friend arrived and we had lunch at a diner. Entering the diner I must have stuck out like a sore thumb. A kind, middle aged waitress came over and asked “Are you playing for us today?” For a few seconds I struggled with an explanation that she could understand. The waitress asked “Is it broken?” I promptly responded with “No, it has buttons.” She then realized that it was more of a toy and dropped the subject.

The first thing you’ll notice is the size and weight of the guitar. The Rock Band 2 Fender Stratocaster looks remarkably smaller next to the Starpex. When paired next to my real guitar it’s more difficult to distinguish the two. The two guitars are equal in size, but the Starpex weighs just a bit less.

If you plan on purchasing this guitar for a child I’d suggest you hold off for a few years. Children generally play on smaller (1/2, or 3/4 sized) guitars due to their size. Teenaged and adult players who have never played a real guitar may have difficulty adjusting to the larger guitar. It’s important to practice proper basic guitar posture when handling any guitar. Without proper posture you may be susceptible to arm or back injury. But don’t worry, after several songs you’ll be comfortable and you’ll feel like a pro.

Guitar Strap:

The Starpex guitar strap measures at 2 inches wide and approx. 52 1/2 in long. For a premium guitar it contains a very generic guitar strap. On two occasions the guitar strap separated itself from the guitar body. If you prefer to play standing up (and jumping around on stage like Smeeguel) then this may be a concern. For the hardcore Endless Set list players you may want to invest towards a more comfortable, reliable guitar strap. This will help minimize the shoulder weight and fatigue when rocking out for several hours.

Wireless Module & USB Adapter:

The Starpex has both a wired and wireless connection for PS2 and PS3. Peak provides a 15ft cable for wired connection, and 2.4 GHz for wireless connection. The Wireless Module (left) fits directly into a PlayStation 2 controller port. The USB Adapter (right) is able to connect to the Wireless Module for PlayStation 3 wireless connectivity. The USB Adapter also contains a Home button to access the XMB. Unfortunately the Starpex guitar lacks a Home button so you’ll have to press the USB adapter or a use standard PS3 controller.

Up until recently most guitar controllers were not Guitar Hero/Rock Band cross-compatible on PlayStation 3. PS3 fans had to purchase multiple game-specific controllers or bundles just to play with friends. Peak’s Starpex contains a switch in the USB Adapter for Rock Band & Guitar Hero compatibility on PS3. (Note- the Starpex is compatible with all guitar games on PS2.)
As of November 24th all first and third party guitar controllers are compatible for all music games on PS3. The Starpex’s basic functions will work regardless of the setting. Switching the controller to the “GH” setting while playing Rock Band will disable the toggle switch, hammer on solo buttons during solos, and “big rock endings” with solo buttons. Solo buttons will function if strummed. Keep this in mind when switching games.

Gameplay:

The Starpex manual states “[Starpex controller] is not meant to take the place of a standard analog controller as it cannot perform all of its functions. If you are unable to navigate the screen using the Peak Guitar Controller, disconnect it and insert a [compatible controller.]” As I mentioned earlier the Starpex controller does not have a Home button on the body. To access the XMB users must press the Home button on the USB adapter. In addition to the missing Home button, the Starpex does not include navigation buttons on the body. If you wish to toggle left and right between options you must use a standard controller.

The Starpex features a pair of five button wooden frets. The neck contains fret markers placed similarly to a real guitar. Each fret button is beveled and color coded on the edges. Fret buttons are slightly larger in size and spacing. Smaller hands will have to stretch a bit more for Green to Orange notes but not by much. The Starpex solo buttons are much larger compared to the Rock Band Stratocaster’s solo buttons. The Strat gets the upper hand in terms of realism, but the Starpex’s solo buttons are far more playable. Guitar solos are now easier thanks to Starpex’s large solo buttons. If you’re having trouble with the “Flawless Guitar Solo” PS3 trophy, consider playing with the Starpex.

With the Starpex you won’t have to worry about mushy strummers, broken whammies, dropped notes and double strums. The frets are raised and shaped similar to the GH2 (Xbox 360) Xplorer controller. The frets are noisy but they don’t make as much noise as the Rock Band 1 Strat. The Starpex strummer functions similarly to the GH3 Les Paul strummer. During rapid strumming this guitar did not miss a beat. The Starpex frets are more sensitive then on other controllers. This allows you press lighter on the frets, which keeps the action very low for faster gameplay. The lower action gives the guitar a more comfortable and realistic feeling. After hours and hours of play the guitar worked flawlessly.

Overdrive/Star Power:

Just like all guitar controllers the Starpex features a motion sensor which triggers Star Power. In addition to the motion sensor the controller features an Overdrive/Star Power button. The Star Power button is located underneath the strum bar and the on/off indicator. The button is not much wider than your pointer finger, which makes it difficult to access during difficult songs. If you’re left handed this button becomes even more difficult to access. When pressing the OD/SP button Star Power will activate after a one second delay. Though it sounds very minor this delay can be problematic in gameplay. During dangerous situations multiple hits of the OD/SP button could risk the player of failing. Like most guitars (especially with the GHWT) the Select button will active overdrive. Unfortunately, the Select and Start button are located far towards the bottom of the controller. The most reliable method for Star Power is good ol’ fashion motion sensing.

Modification:

Peak designed the guitar for easy modification. A connector on the bridge will allow for a foot pedal. All of the electronic and wooden components can be separated from the body for modification. Personally I’d prefer a metal bridge, with metal Start and Select buttons similar to the custom guitar from Funde Razor 2006.

Conclusion:

Disregarding the navigation and Star Power control issues, the Peak Starpex is the best controller I’ve ever used. For those who dream of being a rock star this is the most realistic experience you’ll have on a guitar controller. At $179.99 it will cost you more than a music game bundle but it’s worth every penny. Unfortunately for XBOX 360 owners this controller is only available for Playstation 2 and 3.

Peak’s Starpex guitar can be found at various locations including Circuit City, and Costco for $179.99. On Dec. 10th Funde Razor NYC will feature the Peak Starpex at the Guitar Hero World Tour free play area. At the end of the night we will give away both guitars to some lucky people.

http://www.rockgamer.com/2008/12/01/peak-starpex-guitar-controller-review/

Sony Playstation 3 Kit

2008-09-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

SONY PLAYSTATION 3 ACCESSORY KIT: - The newly designed SIXAXIS Wireless Controller for the PLAYSTATION 3 system enables gamers to harness the potential of the world’s most advanced computer entertainment console. Developed by refining the popular original PlayStation controller, the de facto standard in gaming with several hundred millions units sold worldwide, the SIXAXIS wireless controller features motion- sensing technology to detect natural and intuitive movements for real-time and high precision interactive play, acting as a natural extension of the user’s body. - The PLAYSTATION 3 Blu-Ray Remote Control enables users streamlined access to the PLAYSTATION 3 system’s disc features. Unlike standard infrared remotes, the Blu-Ray Remote control uses Bluetooth technology so it can be used without having to point directly at the PLAYSTATION 3 system. - The HDMI Cable for Sony Playstation 3 allows you to connect your PS3 to any TV with a HDMI connector, giving unprecidented picture quality.

http://www.supergamebox.com/2008/09/20/sony-playstation-3-accessory-kit/

Thrusts, Feints and Slashes, via Controller

2008-08-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

From Errol Flynn’s swashbucklers through George Lucas’s light-saber duels, mass entertainment probably still has no better frame for the elemental mano-a-mano conflict than a sword fight.

Purely as a matter of aesthetics, video games have lagged behind movies in conveying the athleticism of close-quarter combat. The difficulty has been in allowing players precise, tight control over their visual avatars while retaining the fluidity of motion that makes a Jackie Chan scene or a fight from “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” so enthralling.

Games still haven’t matched Hollywood yet in pure martial-arts eye candy, but with the new Soul Calibur IV from Namco Bandai, they are getting close. The latest high-definition graphics technology is finally allowing fighting games to meld the theatrical qualities of film with the fantasies of a great comic book. And Soul Calibur IV offers some of the most kinetic, balletic, gorgeously rendered over-the-top fighting experience on the market today.

Almost all of the game’s dozens of characters maintain distinct styles, not only in physical appearance but also in combat dynamics. A lithe young woman flies into a spinning triple back flip of silk and steel, then offers a quick backhand stab to the kidneys, while a hulking barbarian wearing a rhino’s head tries to crush her with an immense spiked club.

Soul Calibur is principally about swords of every variety, but fans of giant maces, staves, falchions, nunchuks, halberds or other exotic hand-held weaponry won’t go disappointed. The franchise’s alternately saccharine and mildly endearing story revolves around the conflict wrought around 1600 by two quasi-sentient swords, Soul Calibur and its evil twin, Soul Edge.
But story isn’t what you come to a fighting game for. While it’s one thing to make such a game interesting to watch, it’s another to make it something that both hard-core fans and casual droppers-in can find fun to play. Straddling that line may be Soul Calibur’s deepest strength.
In that sense, fighting games and sports games face similar challenges in the new video game market, where the audience is expanding, and where old-school gamers are becoming merely a constituency among many.

For years both sports games and fighting games added in more and more complications so that their serious fans would have more to sink their teeth into and more ways to demonstrate their skill. With some fighting games, as with some sports games, it can take literally dozens of hours to become merely mediocre.

That may be fun for a cadre of die-hards, but it’s not fun for most people. The problem is that if a game is made too easy, it can turn off those core players who are the most loyal game consumers. Soul Calibur manages to square the circle neatly. For me fighting games have usually fallen into two categories: impossibly arcane (the more common) or mindlessly simple. Going into Soul Calibur, I expected to be wiped out constantly until I either bore down and memorized 15 button combinations or set every option to Easy.

Neither happened. After 15 hours on the PlayStation 3 (the game is also available for the Xbox 360), I never got too frustrated and yet I was still getting better. I could pick the game up and just start mashing buttons, watch the pretty special effects and do fairly well, and then, as I was ready, begin to pay attention to learning special moves and applying strategy.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/13/arts/13soul.html?ref=arts

Xbox 360 controller squeezed into Dual Shock 3

2008-08-08T11:26:00.001-07:00

Xbox 360 owners who crave the feel of a PlayStation 3 controller in their mitts can take inspiration from a forum user named RDC over at BenHeck. He pulled apart a PS3 Dual Shock 3 pad and stuffed a 360 controller’s guts inside. Perfect for playing the 360 version of Pro Evolution Soccer, perhaps - but don’t try it at home unless you’re handy with a soldering iron, eh?

http://www.electricpig.co.uk/2008/08/01/xbox-360-controller-squeezed-into-dual-shock-3/

PS3 Metal Gear Solid 4 bundle at SonyStyle, no pre-order in sight

2008-07-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

Sony, you tease! You go and finally put the 80 GB PS3 / Metal Gear Solid 4 bundle up at SonyStyle, complete with a SKU and price point, but you're not taking pre-orders? We just get to look at the thing? Can we touch it? Just for a second? We won't tell. Anyway, as expected, the PS3 / MGS4 bundle will be available in June at $499.99 complete with a DUALSHOCK3 wireless controller. Let's hope that "notify me" button says "add to cart" some time soon.
http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/15/ps3-metal-gear-solid-4-bundle-at-sonystyle-no-pre-order-in-sigh/

Logitech outs PS3 wireless wheel, Wii keyboard

2008-07-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

Logitech is expanding its game controller lineup for E3 with new PlayStation 3 and Wii peripherals. The Driving Force Wireless wheel is Logitech's first to go without a direct connection to the Sony console and uses a custom 2.4GHz adapter and transmitter that are said to be lag-free. The device is built to never need an elaborate setup to be comfortable for driving; a built-in rest lets the new wheel sit on a lap, armrest, or most other common gaming spots without having to construct a special driving environment.

The driving input uses the same force feedback technology as used by earlier models and should work with many common racing games on both the PS3 as well as the PS2, including the Gran Turismo series and many EA racers. It ships in August for $100.

Gamers who prefer Nintendo also have access today to the Cordless Keyboard for Wii, a similarly 2.4GHz wireless device for those who regularly use the Wii's Internet Channel for browsing or otherwise expect to type often. It sports dedicated Wii control keys and is powered solely by AA batteries. A release date isn't set, though the keyboard should ship soon for $50.

http://www.electronista.com/articles/08/07/15/logitech.df.wireless.wheel/

PlayStation 3 Falls Out Of First In Japanese Charts

2008-07-11T07:48:00.000-07:00

Well, the PlayStation 3 had a good run. Err... week. After a big boost from fourth to first on the wings of Metal Gear Solid 4's release in Japan, things have largely returned to normal. The PS3 resumes its position behind the Nintendo DS this week, selling about double what it had been for a good part of the year, but not enough to get out of the chart's bottom half. The PSP returns to the number one spot, probably helped by the release of Super Robot Taisen A Portable. You have to take the good with the bad, Sony. Then you get the facts of life.
PSP - 59,351
Wii - 41,037
Nintendo DS - 36,599
PlayStation 3 - 20,336
PlayStation 2 - 6,346
Xbox 360 - 2,555

http://kotaku.com/5020116/playstation-3-falls-out-of-first-in-japanese-charts

MGS4 hits number one in Japan

2008-07-02T07:22:00.001-07:00

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, sold 464,926 copies in Japan during the first week of release. The game went on sale on June 12, and stayed at the top of the software charts. GameSpot UK reports that the release of MGS4 also boosted PS3 sales, up from 10,846 units the week before to 75,311 the week of the release.

There were two editions of the game released in Japan. The releases include the MGS4 premium pack and the PS3 MGS4 Welcome Box.

The MGS4 Premium Pack includes the gun metal “Hagane” 40GB Playstation 3, Metal Gear Solid 4 Special Edition Game (two-disc set), PS3 “Hagane” Dual Shock 3 Controller, and a bonus “Making Off” on Blu-ray Disc.

The PS3 MGS4 Welcome Box comes with the 40GB console in Clear Black, Ceramic White and Satin Silver, Dual Shock 3 Controller, and Metal Gear Solid 4 game.

http://www.hd-report.com/2008/06/20/mgs4-hits-number-one-in-japan/

Shaun White Snowboarding Wii to Use Balance Board

2008-06-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

During Ubidays 2008, Ubisoft revealed that its upcoming snowboarding title, Shaun White Snowboarding, will be coming to Nintendo Wii. More exciting, the publisher revealed that the game will support Nintendo's Wii Balance Board. Although members of the press were not allowed to play the game at the event, an Ubisoft representative was on hand to demo the setup. The game is played with both the Balance Board and Wii-mote, using the latter to control tricks.
http://games.slashdot.org/article.pl?no_d2=1&sid=08/05/28/1759236

Logitech Driving Force EX wheel For PS2, PS3 In India

2008-06-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

Logitech has launched Driving Force EX wheel for PS2 and PS3 in India. The new wheel comes with two interface plugs: the standard PlayStation controller plug that ensures the wheel will work with any PlayStation game; and a USB plug that allows the Logitech Driving Force EX wheel to deliver realistic force feedback.
The games that do not support USB, for them the Logitech Driving Force EX wheel delivers a comfortable, precision driving experience and standard vibration feedback, claims the company.

"Logitech Driving Force ForceEX Wheel has the advanced force feedback technology that lets you feel every turn, every bump just as if you were driving on the actual racing track," said Subrotah Biswas, country manager, India and SAARC, Logitech.

Logitech Driving Force EX wheel is manufactured with a gas-assist injection molding process that allows the wheel to be created in a single, durable piece. The wheel also features two rubber grips that encircle the steering wheel rim and provide a secure and comfortable grip. The package features functional acceleration and brake pedals on a weighted base and two wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The wheel also includes the standard controller buttons and D-pad, allowing players to have easy access to in game setup and menus.

Logitech Driving ForceEX Wheel for PS2 and PS3 will be distributed in India through Origin Marketing Pvt Ltd and is priced at Rs 7,490. It will come with a 2-year warranty.

http://www.efytimes.com/efytimes/26652/news.htm

TAC Double Range 4-in-1 Guitar Controller Preview

2008-06-02T07:43:00.000-07:00

Two games, two consoles: one axe.
by Scott Lowe

Rhythm game accessory manufacturers, The Ant Commandos (aka TAC), recently announced the release of their newest line of V shaped, Double Range guitar controllers. The Double Range guitars are the world's first mass-produced guitar controller to feature 100% compatibility with both Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. Additionally, the Double Range guitars are compatible with both the Playstation 2 and the Playstation 3. The Double Range features 2.4Ghz wireless technology for increased performance during distanced rocking, and a set of lower frets for use during Rock Band's solo modes. The Guitar Hero fanatics that feel left out of the lower-fret shred fest, can also utilize the lower frets during play. When used with Guitar Hero, the lower frets perform the same as the upper rhythm note frets. The Double Range also includes the 5-way effects selector for use in Rock Band. Unfortunately, however, the selector cannot be used in Guitar Hero.

Some other features included in the Double Range guitars are a power saving mode which automatically turns the controller off after prolonged periods of inactivity, a battery indicator, and a whammy bar that is reinforced for intense performers. The Double Range comes in a variety of colors including: flame red, electric blue, and jet black, and will retail for $59.99. Although on the mid-to-high end of the guitar controller pricing spectrum, the Double Range guitar relieves multi-title rhythm game players from the difficulties and expense of having and switching guitars for different games and systems. While Xbox 360 support would have been ideal, the Double Range remains an impressive value.

http://gear.ign.com/articles/876/876122p1.html

Could this be Microsoft's Xbox 360 motion controller?

2008-05-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

The July issue of Xbox World 360 magazine purportedly contains a photo of the oft-rumored Xbox 360 motion controller -- have a look!

The above mag scan comes via the UK-based Ultimate Gamers Podcast website, which on Wednesday claimed the photo was taken from the July issue of Xbox World 360 magazine, also based in the UK. No further details were divulged.

Rumors of an Xbox 360 motion controller, code-named Newton, surfaced in late 2007. Since then, a total of five reports have suggested that Microsoft will launch a motion-sensing peripheral by the end of this year to better compete with the Nintendo Wii.

Microsoft has so far denied comment on the issue.

http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=186468

Sony: DualShock 3 Rakes in $10.9 Million in April

2008-05-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

The new controller is rumbling the cash out of consumers' pockets. The DualShock 3 generated close to $11 million in sales during the month.

With the Immersion lawsuit now a distant memory and the fully rumble enabled DualShock 3 controller on store shelves (it shipped in early April), a number of existing and new PlayStation 3 owners apparently felt compelled to pick up the new controller, which sells for the price of $54.99.

According to the latest data from Sony Computer Entertainment America, during April the DualShock 3 generated sales of more than $10.9 million.

Sony will be phasing out the Sixaxis controller as time goes on, and the DualShock 3 will come packed in with the special Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 hardware bundle that ships on June 12.

http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/news/sony-dualshock-3-rakes-in-109-million-in-april/?biz=1

Dual Shock 3 hands-on

2008-05-05T06:46:00.000-07:00

It was easy to overlook the loss of vibration feedback when Sony first introduced the PlayStation 3. The console offered a ton of great new features — HD graphics, Blu-ray, multimedia support, wireless controllers, the PlayStation Network — that, at least conceptually, more than made up for the missing rumble support. The console's new Sixaxis controller also had tilt controls that let you control games by tilting or moving the gamepad in the desired direction. Unfortunately, it took most of us only a few minutes with Lair to figure out that we had been hoodwinked out of rumble like a general manager on the wrong side of a Billy Beane trade.

Sony tried to downplay the importance of rumble, referring to it as a "last generation" feature on several occasions before and after the release of the PS3, but Sony's legal skirmishes with haptics company Immersion may have also contributed to the feature's disappearance. Sony finally relented last year at the 2007 Tokyo Game Show when Sony Computer Entertainment president Kaz Hirai announced the Dual Shock 3 controller, just months after working out a deal with Immersion.

The new Dual Shock 3 looks just like the Sixaxis controller. The D pad, action buttons, analog sticks, shoulder buttons, and analog triggers all feel the same. The only way to tell them apart is to pick one up to feel the weight difference, or to check for the controller labels printed across the top edge of each controller. The rumble-enabled controller is noticeably heavier than the Sixaxis and has blue Dual Shock 3 text written across the top, directly above a Sixaxis text label. The Dual Shock 3 sports the Sixaxis tag because it retains the tilt-control support introduced by its predecessor. It's easier to think of the Dual Shock 3 as a Sixaxis with rumble.

The controller is available in US stores now for $54.95. It's available only in black, but you can import ceramic white versions from Asia through your favourite online importers. All PlayStation 3 consoles upgraded to firmware 1.94 or later will support Dual Shock 3 vibration. Note that the controller doesn't come packaged with a USB charge cable. You still have the one that came with your PS3, right?

We first fired up Assassin's Creed to see how Altair rumbles on the new Dual Shock. The game wasn't listed on the official Dual Shock 3 vibration-enabled list, but we've read reports that the game actually does support the feature. We spent close to half an hour running through early parts of the game trying to get the controller to budge before we discovered that the controller seemed to rumble only when our character took damage from a fall or while in combat. The controller didn't give any feedback when Altair rode on horseback, made small jumps, or defended himself in sword fights. Our testing reminded us that the quality of the rumble experience depends on the game implementation as much as the controller. We expect almost all games to support the Dual Shock 3 moving forward, but it might take a while for developers to patch support into existing games and we wouldn't be surprised if some older games never get support.

Lesson learned, we picked Burnout Paradise, a title from the official Dual Shock 3-supported games list for our next test. Racing games have always made extensive use of rumble in the past, and Burnout didn't disappoint. Racing through Paradise City felt great on the Dual Shock. The controller provided varying amounts of rumble feedback in response to our in-game environment, such as a sharp jolt when running through a light pole, or a sublime vibration when gliding over the grass in the road median. Wrecking the car gave the biggest and longest vibration, but we did notice that the Dual Shock 3 didn't shake quite as violently as the Xbox 360 controller does on the competition's system. Even so, the Dual Shock had enough rumble power for a satisfying amount of vibration feedback.

Next we broke out Burnout Dominator to see how the Dual Shock 3 handled PlayStation 2 games. We actually tried out Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters first because it happened to be close at hand, but we didn't find enough vibration in the PSP port to make it a good test for rumble. The Dual Shock 3 did rumble in the few places that the game had activated vibration, but we quickly switched over to Burnout Dominator where we could enable rumble more easily with a swerve into the rough or by activating boost.

We tried out the game first on a PlayStation 2 console with the Dual Shock 2, after which we switched to the PlayStation 3 and the Dual Shock 3. The vibration effects felt the same on the Dual Shock 3 as it did on our original PlayStation 2 Dual Shock. That makes sense because the internal motors are very similar. We should also note that the Dual Shock 3 worked in both games without any patching. We just inserted each PS2 game into the PS3 and the rumble simply worked.

The fact that Sony is replacing the Sixaxis with the Dual Shock 3 makes the buying decision easier for new PS3 owners. Anyone looking for additional controllers will soon be able to buy only the Dual Shock 3 as the Sixaxis disappears from retail. Early adopters who have already bought extra Sixaxis controllers face a more difficult decision of whether or not to replace one or more of their working Sixaxis controllers with Dual Shock gamepads, given that each controller costs almost as much as a new Blu-ray game. Rumble vibration feedback makes it worthwhile to replace at least one controller right now. You can always replace the others as they break. Sony will eventually bundle all systems with the Dual Shock 3, but those looking to buy a complete package guaranteed to contain a rumble controller might have to wait for the Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 bundle coming out this June.

http://www.cnet.com.au/games/ps3/0,239035763,339288392,00.htm

DualShock 3 dated down under

2008-04-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

By James Kozanecki on 16 April 2008

Sony's DualShock 3 controller for the PlayStation 3 came out in Japan late last year and debuted in the United States just last week, but until now, Aussie gamers have had no indication as to when they could expect the new peripheral. It seems we won't have long to wait, however, as Sony has confirmed that the DualShock 3 will be available in Australia on April 24 for AU$99.95 and in New Zealand on May 9 for NZ$109.95. In the US, the controller retails for US$54.99.
The controller features the same motion-sensing technology that the Sixaxis has built in, so it's backwards compatible with most PS3 games. Some games in the PS3 back catalogue already support rumble, while others will have it added via a patch.

Last week, CNET.com.au's sister site GameSpot confirmed that Sony had discontinued the Sixaxis controller from production, making the DualShock 3 the default controller from here on in. At the time of publication, Sony Computer Entertainment Australia could not confirm when the company would start shipping PS3s with DualShocks in the box or if the games compatibility list in America differs for Australia.

http://www.cnet.com.au/games/ps3/0,239035763,339288218,00.htm

Limited edition Gunmetal PlayStation 3 coming to the US

2008-04-14T09:03:00.000-07:00

Sony Computer Entertainment America has revealed that a new PlayStation 3 SKU will be hitting retail shelves to accompany the release of Konami's Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.

The new bundle will have a "gunmetal grey" colorway console, a copy of the game, and "very, very Limited edition" packaging, according to Sony.

Besides the latest bundle, Sony will also be resurrecting the 80GB PS3 for an MGS4 bundle and that bundle will include a PS3 DualShock 3 controller and the game.

As another added incentive, consumers that pre-order the game will receive a free Metal Gear Saga Vol. 2 DVD and "a voucher for access to the Metal Gear Online beta trials."

http://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/13620.cfm

First Playstation 3 Rumble-Enabled Controller Now Available From Nyko

2008-03-10T10:03:00.000-07:00

Written by Alexis Morgenstern
Friday, 07 March 2008

The first rumble-enabled Playstation 3 controller is finally out in the US, but it's not from Sony. Nyko has released its Zero Wireless Controller for the Playstation 3. The controller retails for $59.99, about $5 more than the upcoming first-party Playstation 3 DUALSHOCK 3 controller, which will be released in April 2008.

Features of the Zero controller, as noted by Nyko:- Dual vibration motors for full rumble feedback in supported games*- Up to 25 hours of continuous play with removable, rechargeable, NiMH battery, complete with USB charge cable and optional battery compartment- Reliable 2.4 GHz wireless technology for reliable and responsive range of up to 30 feet- Equipped with a precise accelerometer that detects six different directions of motion- Standard backlit LED buttons, precision analog sticks, durable buttons, and curved triggers- Unique metal polymer hybrid design with heat-dissipating aluminum panels, available in three distinct colors to match the tastes of every gamer: Black, Silver and White

From Nyko

Press release: NYKO'S ZERO WIRELESS CONTROLLER FOR PLAYSTATION®3 RUMBLES INTO STORES

Features Include Six-Direction Motion Sensing and Rumble Support for the Ultimate PS3 Gaming Experience

Los Angeles, CA - March 6, 2008 - Nyko Technologies®, the premier peripherals manufacturer, announced today that it has shipped its highly anticipated Zero Wireless Controller for PLAYSTATION®3. The Zero Wireless Controller provides a combination of style and performance with new rumble capabilities.

The Zero Wireless Controller is the ultimate solution for PS3 gaming, making it the top choice in high-end wireless controllers. Continuing the popularity of Nyko's Zero controller line, the new Zero for PS3 features include:

- Dual vibration motors for full rumble feedback in supported games*- Up to 25 hours of continuous play with removable, rechargeable, NiMH battery, complete with USB charge cable and optional battery compartment- Reliable 2.4 GHz wireless technology for reliable and responsive range of up to 30 feet- Equipped with a precise accelerometer that detects six different directions of motion- Standard backlit LED buttons, precision analog sticks, durable buttons, and curved triggers- Unique metal polymer hybrid design with heat-dissipating aluminum panels, available in three distinct colors to match the tastes of every gamer: Black, Silver and White

"The new generation of consoles provided us with a building ground to develop a high-quality controller that exceeds gamers' expectations of what a 3rd party controller should offer," said Chris Arbogast, Marketing Director for Nyko. "We are confident that the Zero Wireless Controller for PS3 will prove its value by combining a solid, reliable design and unique features with the latest rumble and motion-sensing technology."

The Zero Wireless Controller for PS3 is now available at retailers nationwide for the suggested retail price of $59.99. Visit www.nyko.com for more information.

http://www.gamingbits.com/content/view/3614/2/

Which controller has the best battery life?

2008-02-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

GamePro tests the wireless stamina of Xbox 360, Wii, and PS3 controllers in comparison. May the best controller win!

Ever wonder which controller has the best battery life? If so, you're in the right place. Over the last month, we juxtaposed Xbox 360, Wii, and PS3 controllers at GamePro Towers to find out which ones go the distance. Though our research is far from scientific, we isolated all obvious variables, rigorously documented our findings, and worked in an uncontaminated testing environment for optimal significance.

For our tests, we cleaved to the following criteria: We only used out-of-the box hardware -- that means no charger packs for 360 and Wii, which must be purchased separately. We played a wide variety of games on each console, including lengthy single-player adventures and shallow downloadable games, both online and off. We played for varying time intervals, from fifteen minutes to upwards of eight hours (Hello weekends!). We used Duracell CopperTops for 360 and Wii testing. And we deemed all battery(s) dead after attempting to reconnect the controller for a third consecutive time. Behold, the results:

PlayStation 3
Sony's Sixaxis is light in both weight and battery performance. If it weren't for its ability to recharge via USB, we'd call it a show-stopper. But its internal battery does recharge, which is more than either the Xbox 360 or the Wii controllers are capable of, resulting in big savings over the life of the console. Like any good Blu-ray player, our PS3 was used to watch a handful of high-definition movies in addition to games. But due to the lack of an auto-off feature like the Wii and 360, Sixaxis lasted a meager 18 hours and 41 minutes; the first controller to die on us. ProTip: Get in the habit of turning your controller off when not in use (via the PlayStation button menu), or invest $20 bucks in the lovely Bluetooth remote.

Nintendo Wii
The Wii Remote and Nunchuck are the most technologically advanced controllers on the market. Given that the pair include speakers, gyroscopes, and other motion-sensing doohickery, we assumed the waggle pads would be the first to cave when it came to battery performance. Surprisingly, Wii controllers lasted almost 20 hours longer than the PS3 controller when playing games, watching YouTube videos, or admiring handsome Miis. At the end of the day, the Wii CopperTops tarried for a solid 36 hours and 43 minutes on default controller settings. It should be noted, however, that battery results may vary on Wii, for better or for worse. Given the level of customization, players can forgo both rumble and remote audio for improved battery life, or rely heavily on them for a quicker death. ProTip: Consider a reusable third-party battery pack, though it likely won't last as long.

Xbox 360
Microsoft's Xbox 360 controllers are the most weighted when compared to either Wii or PS3 -- by far. They also pack the most rumble punch, shaking profusely during intense gaming moments. So it would make sense to think the added density and tactile feedback would drain batteries with haste, but our lab results proved quite the contrary. The Xbox 360 controller endured an impressive 56 hours and 56 minutes, the most of any wireless controller we tested. Fittingly, our second to last play session went 360 minutes on the dot. The dashboard battery meter isn't as accurate as PS3 or Wii, but for maximum gaming on a single battery charge, the Xbox 360 can't be beat. ProTip: Consider an Xbox 360 Quick Charge Kit or alternative to avoid disposable batteries, though you'll get a bit less mileage between charges.
So which battery setup works best? That, like the consoles themselves, is entirely subjective. The PS3 controller is rechargeable, the Wii Remote customizable, and the Xbox 360 long-lasting. Now that's playing with power. -- Blake Snow

http://www.gamepro.com/gamepro/international/games/features/159148.shtml

PlayStation 3 gets more exclusive content with 'Lair' and 'Warhawk'

2007-09-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

(AP) — It's been a long year for PlayStation 3 owners with very little in the way of new, exclusive content. As good as they are, "MotorStorm" and "Resistance: Fall of Man" are wearing thin for me.
Finally, two new PS3 exclusives are available: "Warhawk" and "Lair."
Being an exclusive game doesn't guarantee greatness. Five minutes with "Lair" makes that painfully clear.
"Lair" (Rated T, US$59.99) kicks off well enough, with a gorgeous animated sequence involving warriors on fire-breathing dragons.
The aerial spectacle is tremendous, the cinematic effect stirring.
So how can the actual game - a title with battle-tested, fire-breathing dragons, mind you - be so utterly terrible?
It's a classic case of a game that looks phenomenal but plays horribly. The controls quickly kill any sense of fun.
Flying dragons around the war-torn landscape is maddeningly tough in "Lair." Too tough.
That's because you have no choice but to move the controller in the direction you're trying to go. The PS3's controller has always had a motion-sensing capability, but it's very imprecise when you're trying to guide a dragon through a narrow canyon.
To do a quick 180, you can flick the controller up - but, often, my flicks didn't do anything or sent me in the wrong direction.
If only "Lair" would let me use the controller's traditional joysticks and buttons for movement.
"Lair" just isn't worth the effort.
One star out of four.
At least "Warhawk" delivers what it advertises: a quick, responsive multiplayer combat game. Nothing more, nothing less.
The game feels a bit generic compared to more established online shooting franchises like "Unreal Tournament," but there's plenty to like about "Warhawk." Namely, big, sprawling online matches against up to 31 other real players.
There are the usual online modes like Team Deathmatch and Capture the Flag, which span a diverse array of maps. There are plenty of weapons like machine guns and grenades, plus you can drive around tanks and jeeps, or control turrets to defend your base.
Some weapons seem overpowered, namely the flame thrower, which can somehow mow down armoured tanks with relative ease.
But the game's biggest rush comes from piloting the warhawk fighters. They're able to transform from hovercraft to fighter jets and back again.
They pack an arsenal of weapons that includes missiles and mines. They're extremely manoeuvrable, too, able to perform all sorts of aerial tricks such as loops and spinning turns.
There are two ways to buy "Warhawk," which is rated T. You can download it directly from Sony and pay $39.99, or buy a boxed copy that includes a wireless headset for $20 more.
That way, you can talk trash right back to the online strangers who will taunt you after they've blasted you from the sky.
"Warhawk" is the sort of game the PS3 desperately needed. It's an approachable title that delivers all the online mayhem you can handle.
Three-and-a-half stars.

Microsoft: Xbox Ablaze

2007-08-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

There is a lesson in the smoking controllers that work with the Xbox 360. Microsoft (MSFT) "will send out replacement parts for its Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel after 50 reports that the video-game controllers overheated and released smoke when plugged in, the software maker said Thursday", according to MSNBC.
Of course, this follows other problems with the game console that lead MSFT to take a charge for $1.1 billion in warranty extension costs last quarter.
The Xbox has never made Microsoft a dime. In the last fiscal year. the MSFT entertainment and device division lost $1.9 billion on revenue of $6.1 billion. It is hard to imagine that the company can make up that $2 billion deficit.
Xbox sales are OK. They still trail the Nintendo Wii, but are ahead of the Sony (SNE) PS3.
Microsoft made a classic error getting into the console business. It hoped to diversify its revenue to drive growth away from its core software businesses. And, in the process, it moved into an area of industry where it has no expertise. Quality control for hardware is not at all like writing code.
Now, with two public humiliations about the quality of the Xbox behind it, perhaps Redmond will reconsider whether the company's brain power means that it can be successful in almost any arena.
Nintendo might buy the Xbox business. But, no matter, it is not a unit that Microsoft can make work.
Douglas A. McIntyre

Sony Denies Having Sent RUMBLEAXIS to Developers

2007-08-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

Despite rumors that the recently ended conflict between Immersion and Sony resulted in the long expected addition of rumble technology to PS3’s analog controllers, the Japanese electronics and entertainment behemoth denied having sent such modified controllers to the devs.
However, Sony did admit that “enhanced” SIXAXIS controllers have been sent to the development community.
Sony’s director of communications David Karraker said: "We have not added rumble [to PS3], and have no announcements regarding this feature."
"From time to time, we make minor enhancements to the controllers for our platforms," he said. "We recently sent out to the development community some new prototypes that have a slightly enhanced sensitivity for the analog sticks and the motion sensing within the Sixaxis controller.
"This is not a new controller, but is part of the normal development and evolution of controllers," he added.
Karraker declined to offer more details about the new SIXAXIS controllers.
One of the main reasons for which Sony did not include rumble features into the SIXAXIS controllers for PlayStation 3 is the patent lawsuit filed by Immersion, which owns the intellectual property over some key aspects of the technology integrated in PS2’s DualShock controllers.
Last year, before E3 2006 and long before the launch of PlayStation 3, Sony had declared that it would be technically impossible to include the “haptic” (rumble) features invented by Immersion and the tilting/motion sensing features for which Sony owns the patents into the same SIXAXIS wireless controller.
Phil Harrison, UK corporate executive and a representative director of Sony Computer Entertainment, also considered the rumble technology too “retro” to fit in the company’s strategy for the PS3: "I think [rumble] was a last generation feature; it's not a next-generation feature."
Microsoft was also involved in a legal battle with Immersion over the pesky haptic features and had to pay $26 million to be able to include them in the Xbox controllers. However, a clause in the MS-Immersion deal stipulates that if Immersion settled their legal matters with Sony, then Microsoft stood to receive money from Immersion.
http://www.efluxmedia.com/news_Sony_Denies_Having_Sent_RUMBLEAXIS_to_Developers_07514.html

Guitar Hero 2 Playstation 2 Wireless Guitar

2007-07-26T07:01:00.000-07:00

Guitar Hero 2 Playstation 2 Wireless Guitar

Product Features
2.4GHz wireless connectivity
Wireless range of up to 25 feet
High-quality construction and unque hard rock design
Fully compatible with both Guitar Hero games

Product Description
Live out your rock star dreams with the Activision Wireless Guitar Controller. Tackle the most difficult songs and most intense hammer-ons with this fine-tuned wireless controller. As you play, you'll see how much better you perform -- the tighter feel and more precise response with give you all the excitement of chord-free rock n' roll. For PS2.

Europe gets PS3 starter pack, no price cut

2007-07-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

Monday 16 Jul 2007
SCEA recently announced that it would be launching a Starter Pack for the PS3 in the UK and Europe. This high value Starter Pack will be comprised of a PS3, two first party games and two SIXAXIS wireless controllers and will retail at £425.
The Starter Pack will be available from the 18th of July in the UK and across all European territories by the 1st of August. This announcement comes in the wake of the PS3 price being cut by $100 in the US. Unfortunately, no such price cut is on the cards for Europe but SCEA believe that “the new Starter Pack represents exceptional value for money.” The first party titles available in the Starter Pack will vary from country to country but will include Resistance Fall of Man and MotorStorm.
“With sell through of over 1.2 million units in the SCEE territories to date, PLAYSTATION 3 has proved to be an instant and huge success”, said David Reeves, President of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. “The exceptional value of the new Starter Pack will bring the excitement of PlayStation gaming to a much wider audience. Add to this a stellar lineup of software titles for the second half of the year and we are confident that this amazing value Starter Pack will encourage many more keen gamers to join the PLAYSTATION 3 community.”
http://www.el33tonline.com/main/show_news/3212

Sony slashes PS3 price tag by $100

2007-07-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

SAN FRANCISCO, California (Reuters) -- Sony has cut the price of the PlayStation 3 by $100, or 17 percent, in the United States, a move that should boost the video game console's lackluster sales.
The PlayStation 3, which includes a 60-gigabyte hard drive and a Blu-ray high-definition DVD player, will now cost $500, or $20 more than the most expensive version of Microsoft's Xbox 360.
The PS3 still costs twice that of Nintendo's Wii console, whose $250 price and motion-sensing controller have made it a best-seller despite its lack of cutting-edge graphics and hard disk.
"Our initial expectation is that sales should double at a minimum," Jack Tretton, chief executive of Sony Computer Entertainment America, said in an interview.
"We've gotten our production issues behind us on the PlayStation 3, reaching a position to pass on the savings to consumers, and our attitude is the sooner the better."
The price drop Monday was widely anticipated by industry analysts despite Sony President Ryoji Chubachi telling Reuters last week that the company had no immediate plans for one.
Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter said Sony's price reduction would not double sales but may boost them by 50 percent to about 120,000 units a month.
"The greater significance is that Sony is signaling to the market that we're coming down the cost curve pretty fast in making this thing. It's a pretty consumer-friendly move," Pachter said.
Sony's move comes two days before the start of the video game industry's annual E3 trade show in Santa Monica, California, where some expect Microsoft to respond with its first price cuts on the Xbox 360.
Nintendo, whose Wii is selling so well that it is still hard to find in stores eight months after its launch, is not expected to budge on pricing.
The Xbox 360 and Wii have outsold the PS3 by several times in the crucial U.S. market, leaving Sony, whose PlayStation 2 dominated the last console generation, in the unfamiliar position of playing catch up.
Sony is counting on the price cut to help it significantly grow sales of the PS3 ahead of the crucial holiday shopping season that accounts for most of the annual sales of highly profitable gaming software.
Sony is also introducing a new version of the PS3 featuring an 80-gigabyte hard drive and a copy of "Motorstorm," an off-road racing game that has already sold a million copies.
The new model will sell for $600 and is aimed at gamers who expect to download a lot of games and other content from Sony's burgeoning online network.
Sony also hopes the PS3 will win some converts following Microsoft's admission last week that the failure rate of its Xbox 360 console had been unacceptably high, forcing it to book $1 billion in repair costs.
"We're especially proud of the fact that the PlayStation 3 has the lowest failure rate of any PlayStation product. It's absolutely the gold standard," Tretton said.
"The quality of the product and long-term viability is what ultimately wins."

Find this article at: http://www.cnn.com/2007/TECH/07/09/sony.price.reut/index.html

Logitech Cordless Precision for PlayStation 3

2007-07-09T11:28:00.000-07:00

June 12, 2007 - The DNA of the PlayStation controller is relatively old in videogaming. Evolving over the course of three console generations, the controller in its newest iteration still looks quite like its original incarnation, a fact that few take issue with. The SIXAXIS of today is a comfortable and capable controller, and were it not for the omission of rumble packs, would be the best PS controller yet. Some peeps, however, don't love the PS design, or more likely, don't like the SIXAXIS' $49.99 retail price. While the PS3 is still quite early in its lifespan, there are a few alternative options on the market. Longstanding peripheral manufacturer Logitech has products among them, and today we're checking out the $39.99 retailing Cordless Precision for the PlayStation 3.
Logitech is known for making some of the most solidly built third party peripherals, and the Cordless Precision does not break the trend. Wider, and significantly heavier than the SIXAXIS, the controller's body is molded from softly textured black plastic with a relatively traditional button layout. Two AA batteries provide power (up to 50-hours worth according to Logitech). The battery compartment takes up a fair amount of space beneath the analog sticks, which feels odd if you're accustomed to the flat-backed SIXAXIS. In our case we never managed to find a comfortable place to put our middle fingers, which detracted from our appreciation of its ergonomics.
The PlayStation 3 and its SIXAXIS controllers communicate via Bluetooth, and one might assume third-party peripherals might be able to share in the action. Such is not the case, however, due to Sony's licensing policies, and as a result the Logitech Cordless Precision actually makes use of a 2.4Ghz signal transmitted to a USB receiver that needs to be plugged into the PS3. The wireless connection then established is quite robust and never let us down, however, other features are lost, such as the ability to turn on the console with the Cordless Precision's "PS" button and a battery status display. The USB dongle also glows with a bright green LED, which gets annoying if your PS3 is in the same field of vision as your display.
A somewhat surprising feature the Cordless Precision lacks is motion sensing of any sort. Though there are plenty of peeps that aren't totally sold on the PS3's version of motion based control, we're rather disappointed Logitech chose to omit it completely. Instead, Logitech did pack rumble motors into the controller. Sadly, no current games support rumble. Now that Sony and Immersion Corp have resolved their differences it should only be a matter of time before rumble is implemented in PS3 games, but for the moment the Cordless Precision's rumble motors are completely unused.
Moving on to the actual button response, the Cordless Precision has a few issues. The SIXAXIS, like its PS predecessors, has a stiff D-pad due to the recessed and separated buttons, which is how many people have come to like their digital input. The Cordless Precision, on the other hand, uses the more common circular crosshairs hat button, which feels squishy and loose in comparison. It's not worse than the Xbox 360 controller's D-Pad, but that isn't saying a lot. The majority of the action buttons feel good, but oddly the L2 and R2 buttons are set on extremely stiff springs. While there's an argument to be made that since these buttons are analog the high-resistance will allow for greater precision in regulating their depression, the practical reality is that in many cases we discovered we weren't holding them down quite hard enough for full contact, which meant we were running laps in Motor Storm at 85% throttle when we wanted 100%. ConclusionLogitech's Cordless Precision for the PS3 dropped too many features to make its only $10 discount versus the official SIXAXIS worthwhile. It's lack of a built in rechargeable battery, lack of Bluetooth, and lack of tilt-sensitivity, coupled with its less-comfortable ergonomics and too-stiff L2 and R2 buttons combine to make it an also-ran against the official PS3 pad. If it ends up getting marked down, it would be a much more competitive product at $25 than $39.

http://gear.ign.com/articles/795/795971p1.html

Playstation 3 Commercial: Sixaxis Wireless Controller

2007-07-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

This Playstation 3 Commercial shows a humorous use of a cordless Playstation 3 controller

The Logitech Cordless Action Controller for Playstation 2

2007-07-09T11:05:00.000-07:00

Product Description
Life has enough restrictions. Break free and play where you want with the Logitech Cordless Controller for PlayStation . It's 2.4 GHz of cordless freedom exactly where you want it most. Stop tripping, get cordless! The Logitech Cordless Controller for PlayStation uses the same 2.4 GHz technology found in today's best cordless phones to give you freedom to spread out and get your game on. Logitech has also engineered it for vibration feedback with customizable modes for digital and analog, and a long battery life. You can also play with other controllers in the room.Who's holding you back now? Take control with Logitech's cordless controller and play to win.

Specs
Features
Product Description - Logitech Cordless Controller for PlayStation - game pad
Device Type - Game pad
Compatible Game Consoles - Sony PlayStation 2, Sony PS one, Sony PlayStation
Connectivity Technology - Wireless
Buttons Qty - 8
Pointing Device / Manipulator - Thumb stick, 8-way D-pad
Features - Vibration
Battery - 4 - AA type
Manufacturer Warranty - 1 year warranty

Reviews on this product:
Fantastic - Must have by Jeff on October 12, 2005
10 out of 10
I have had one of these for almost 2 years. It has worked flawlessly. Although it felt large and different at first, it did not take long to accustom to. Now I cannot stand using PS origonal controllers. (digitaltrends.com)
Waste of Money by chrisitne on August 22, 2005
1 out of 10
My son used his for a short while, started making wavey lines on screen. Went to bring it back to Best Buy and since it was more than 30 days old, they would not take it back or exchange it for a new one. (digitaltrends.com)

The WIRELESS PS2 controller, July 8, 2007
By P. Webb "apocrypha" (Bozeman, MT United States) 5 Stars
Logitech has made the best PS2 controller you can buy, and it is WIRELESS with RUMBLE:) Really sturdy feeling and with a superior setup to the original PS2 controller, directions are replaced by a smooth traditional DPAD, I can't play my PS2 without it I'll admit I never really liked the Dual Shock Controller until now I feel like I am reaching for buttons and directions less. Thanks to Ltech for making a 3rd party controller worth owning. (amazon.com)
good but buttons stick, April 29, 2007
By T. L. Donat "Mechanical contractor" (Waterloo, IN United States)
We have tried several other brands of cordless and this is the best for staying connected and working all the time. But after using for about 9 months the x button starts to stick. This is the second one to do this. Took the first one apart and found the silicone pad under the buttons crack and does pop back up you can turn it around but then the triangle button stick. tried to get a new silicone pad even contacted logitech, said parts are not availible. Its a shame to throw away a $40.00 controller for a .20 cent part. If someone knows where to get parts I would Like to Know. (amazon.com)