Harmonix: Your Guitar Hero III guitar will work with Rock Band 2

With the release of Rock Band 2 for the Wii approaching, a flood of information about the game is finally making its way to the eyes and ears of would-be rockers. Yesterday, we heard about all of the awesome DLC we'll have access to and now we've got something for those of you who picked up Guitar Hero III for the Wii.

Posting on the Harmonix boards, one of the developers confirmed that the guitar used in Guitar Hero III for the Wii will be fully compatible with Rock Band 2. So, for those of you who prefer rocking out with a wireless plastic axe, as opposed to the one that comes with the full Rock Band bundle, you're in luck.

No word has been said about Guitar Hero World Tour's guitar and Rock Band 2, but seeing as how Harmonix wants to "encourage the interoperability of instruments between platforms," we're thinking it just might be.
Source Nintendo wii fanboy

Wiimote guitar effects control

[Rob Morris] sent us this video of his Wiimote based guitar effects. Similar to our post yesterday about using the Wiimote to control a synth, he is using changes in orientation to effect the sound. He starts off with simple pitch modulation, but later in the video he’s doing, uh, we’re not sure but its kind of cool.
Source hackaday.

Controlling a Doepfer modular synth with a Wiimote

The Wiimote has turned out to be very versatile indeed. This video shows someone using it to control his modular synth. There is not a lot of artistic jamming going on, but explains in fair detail how to set it up. If you want to see Isadore getting down, check this out.
source hackaday.

Playstation tank controller

[stuart] wanted a more intuitive way to control his rover platform than the software solution he had been using. He settled on using a Playstation controller with an AVR to operate the rover wirelessly. He found a couple references for talking to the controller using SPI on a PIC and adapted that for his ATMega88. The code is available on his site. He removed the rumble motors from the controller and stuffed the chip plus the transmitter package inside. The Linx TX/RX pair are mounted to pluggable boards so he can use them on other projects. A video of the tank in motion is after the jump.
Source hackaday

The latest joysticks on the joystick vault

Heres the latest sticks on the joystick vault.
Firstly a Mass Effect custom joystick, and secondly a silent hill custom joystick built using Happ competition buttons & joystick. MDF Board for the construction.
Both by GatsuGodhand.

Source Joystick Vault

MotorStorm With Mini-Motorbike Motion Controller

This isn't a product, but rather a concept product. Spotted a mini-motorcycle that had been modded with an embedded PS3 SIXAXIS controller. The guy on the motorbike said the original plan was to have the game projected lower so players weren't looking up at the wall, but it wasn't possible to work that out logistically, apparently. Fittingly, the PS3 was running MotorStorm, and playing it on a mini-bike did give the title an nostalgically arcadey feel. The only downside was that the handle was a tad too low so twisting the throttle wasn't so easy on the wrist.

Source kotaku

AKI 3.0 USB Interface

A new USB encoder is now available from B-Spec Labs. The AKI 3.0 USB Interface, successor to the AKI and SJC interfaces, is a user-configurable encoder which currently supports analog, digital, and 49-way joysticks, as well as joystick to keyboard, and joystick to mouse conversion. For more details, read the product description here.

Source arcade controlls.

A Brief History of Controllers: A and B

I meant to post this interesting little history lesson on controller mapping since the NES a few weeks ago, but an ill-fated department camping trip to the wilds of SoCal got in the way; Matthew Gallant of the aptly named 'Quixotic Engineer' takes us down memory lane and on a flying tour of the evolution of various controllers:

There’s always been a minor niggle at the back of my mind when I played the Nintendo DS. “They’ve got it backwards,” I thought, “The A button should be on the left and B on the right. That’s how it’s always been… I think.” A speedy investigation showed that my memory was a little foggy, and that the answer was significantly more interesting than that. Therefore, I present to you a brief history of gamepad button mapping.

It's a short and sweet look at how our controllers have evolved (or not) over the years — including issues of localization. Some questions are still unanswered (like where the 'A' and 'B' designations originated from, though it would appear that the NES was the first), but an interesting little wrap-up nonetheless.
Source kotaku

SteelSeries World of Warcraft Mouse Destroys Orcs, Your Last Shreds of Dignity With 15 Buttons

teelSeries' World of Warcraft MMO mouse is officially the most ridiculous gaming mouse I have ever seen. Designed with Blizzard just for WoW gamers (just in time for Wrath of the Lich King), it has 15 programmable buttons. You don't even have that many fingers. And it has flashing disco lights. In 16 million colors. Of course, this much nerd doesn't come cheap—it'll be $90 when it drops next month, but SteelSeries gear is tank-like, so you'll be stuck with it for a long time. Which is good, since you're going to be very lonely if you buy one.

Designed by Blizzard® and SteelSeries specifically for World of Warcraft®, The World of Warcraft® MMO Gaming Mouse provides remarkable benefit to all World of Warcraft® gamers, regardless of level or play style. The mouse can be customized to fit the users personal preferences; the illumination feature allows for up to 16 million colors, programmability of all 15 buttons via an intuitive and easy to use drag and drop interface. The fluid integration of software with hardware will provide the user with an amazing in-game experience featuring superior performance, comfort and control. The World of Warcraft® MMO Gaming Mouse is fully scalable to meet and exceed the requirements of even the most discerning World of Warcraft® gamer.

* 16 million illumination choices * A total of 15 programmable buttons
* Several predefined macros and posibility to create your own
* World’s first gaming mouse designed exclusively for World of Warcraft®

• Cable (braided): 2 m / 6,6 ft.
• 15 buttons
• 800 - 3000 CPI
• 3,6 mm lift distance

November 2008

Source gizmodo

Wiimote Rovio via Robodance

Robert Oschler, of Robots Rule, has a video up showing a preview of his Robodance software controlling the new Wow Wee Rovio remote surveillance bot via a Nintendo Wiimote. With this set-up, a Wiimote can control the Rovio from just about anywhere in the world via Bluetooth and a Web connection. Robert plans on having this new version of Robodance available by early next year.

For more information, visit the Rovio-Wiimote Robodance page.

Source make:blog

Vocal mouse control

Absolutely fascinating. The University of Washington is developing a vocally controled mouse interface. We’ve seen vocal control of the computer before, but it is usally responding to specific commands and words to carry out tasks such as opening files. This system uses different vowels and sounds to create cursor motion. You can see the same system used in the video above to control a robot arm as well.
Source hackaday

Sony has a PS3 controller charger, let us show you it

Even with today's wireless video game controllers, you can't stay untethered forever. After a few hours of gaming on the PlayStation 3, you'll have to plug in that SIXAXIS or DualShock 3 USB cable to charge. Starting December 18th, Sony Japan will offer an AC adapter intended for PS3 controllers at a price of ¥2,800 (just under $30). Like third party solutions we've seen, it has two USB ports so you'll be able to do two controllers or toss in a Bluetooth headset. Nothing yet on availability outside of Japan, but if we get word we'll be all over it, 'cause we feel slightly guilty for leaving the PS3 on overnight to charge -- what with the world's dwindling energy supply and all.
Source engadget.

Fraunhofer IPMS demonstrates OLED with touch control

Look, we're not going to argue that those chintzy clap lamps weren't pretty sweet in their heyday. And we're also not going to put up a fuss when you assert that snap bracelets were equally adorable in the early 90s. Nostalgia aside, Fraunhofer IPMS is headed straight for the future with its latest OLED breakthrough. Reportedly, the company has devised an OLED display that can be controlled via human touch or by simply waving one's hand in front of the panel. Unlike similar applications that have come before it, there's no additional hardware needed -- and therein lies the magic. The outfit is currently showing off the design at the Plastic Electronic 2008 show, though it yet to reveal anything close to a release plan.
Source engadget.

Wii Warm Up: Plugging it in

After seeing Taiko No Tatsujin Wii yesterday, we definitely think the drum looks pretty sweet ... but we also noticed something mildly annoying: it plugs into the Wii remote, like so many other things. Now, look, we're not saying this feature is in any way a gamebreaker -- it's just one of those features that begs the question of whether or not there would have been a better way. Of course, we are completely picky bastards, so perhaps this is something you don't even think about. Or is it?

Source nintendo wii fanboy

Brainwave Controlled Game From Square Enix

zombies-alive writes "Square Enix and Neurosky, maker of wearable sensory equipment, are coming out with a new 'Brainwave-Controlled' RPG. The game will be demonstrated at the Tokyo Game Show for the (Windows) PC, which features the NeuroSky MindSet headset. At this moment, the headset only detects the gamer's level of concentration and relaxation by means of a single electrode placed on the forehead."

Source Slashdot

fanatec rennsport wheel stand

Fanatec have posted news of the RennSport Wheel Stand, used with driving controllers it lets you use a wheel and pedals without the need for a table.
The features include:

* Compatible with all Fanatec Porsche and Speedster racing wheels
* Other makes:
Logitech: Driving Force, Driving Force Pro, G25
Microsoft wireless wheel
* Allows the use of a racing wheel without table in the living room
* Easy to store away within 10 seconds
* Attractive design both in operation or in storage leaning on a wall
* Rock solid steel / Aluminum construction avoids shaking even with strong Force feedback wheels
* Adjustable: wheel angle, height, pedal position
* Big rubber feet avoid any movement
* Porsche wheel and G25 shifter mount (optional)
* Optional race seat kit expands it to a full racing cockpit (available 2009)
* Designed in Germany by real Germaneering®

Source fanatec

Scratch offers Numark-controlled Guitar Hero for hip-hop heads

Are the blatant rockist tendencies of Guitar Hero and Rock Band ruining your enjoyment of those otherwise brilliant titles? Of course they are -- we noted your b-boy flava from two blocks away. But don't sweat it because Genius Products, 7 Studios and Quincy Jones III have your niche in their sights and will happily sell you Scratch: The Ultimate DJ when it hits the stores sometime in Spring 2009. With a game controller designed by Numark (known worldwide for its DJ controllers -- there's an example for you after the break), the game will be available for the Xbox 360 and PS3 and feature tracks by "many" (as yet unnamed) hip-hop artists. Trevor Drinkwater, President and CEO of Genius Products promises all and sundry "a cutting-edge game that captures the vital energy of hip-hop culture." And here we thought they were cynically jumping on the Guitar Hero bandwagon! We stand corrected.
Source Engadget

LittleBigPlanet Gets DualShock 3 Bundles Too

Taking a page from the Wii Play playbook, Sony is going to bundle one of its more popular upcoming games, LittleBigPlanet, with a DualShock 3. It'll do it in Japan anyway, hoping that the Japanese video game consuming public will be awed by the woolen cuteness of Sackboy and bring some vibrating solenoids into their workaday lives. Price is just 7980 yen, about $79 in increasingly worthless U.S. dollars.

For the PlayStation 3 plus LittleBigPlanet bundle box, please hit the jump.
Source kotaku.

The joystick vaults picks of the week

Heres some of joystick vaults posts of new custom joysticks posted this week:
all by RigoHoward!


Solrak's custom case

Heres a custom case (buttons and stick on the picture are mine xD), without art for a customer.


Flako's UMK arcade stick

A comissioned stick for a friend



Tony T. Chopper stick

My girlfriend is a very big fan of Shonen Jump One Piece series.. so i made this custom arcade stick with his favourite character of the luffy pirates tripulation :P

For more joysticks go here.

Light Gun Zero Plus wireless light gun demo unit spotted at TGS

We spotted this demo light gun on the floor of TGS2008. The cagey booth attendant wouldn't tell us if it will ever hit retail shelves, but the frankensteined (see the external batteries?) device was certainly working with a PS3 and projector here in Tokyo. We're all for some wireless light gun action, so bring it on, Light Gun Zero. That is, if you can. Oh, and if you can get rid of that unusual battery pack. Okay, thanks.

Source Engadget.

PSP Plus awkwardly unites PSP, DualShock 3

With only one analog nub, the PSP can't seem to nail down a comfortable first or third-person shooter control scheme on its own, but a new tech called "PSP Plus" will allow users to pair the handheld with the PlayStation 3's more genre-capable SIXAXIS or DualShock 3 controllers. Sony announced PSP Plus at the Tokyo Game Show today but didn't provide much info about how it works, so we're not sure if it's the same technology that was patented last year. We do know there's a pretty outrageous catch: you'll need to connect your PSP to your PS3 to use the controller. With only one game supported (Resistance Retribution), we prefer just about any homemade hack to this solution, and if you're at home with your PS3, why not play Resistance 2 instead? It's what Kratos would do.
Source engadget

Razer rolls out Lycosa Mirror, Arctosa gaming keyboards

It's been almost exactly a year since Razer introduced its Lycosa gaming keyboard and it looks like the company's decided to celebrate by rolling out a new, slightly updated model. From the looks of it, the Lycosa Mirror (pictured above) is identical in most respects to its predecessor, with the exception of a new high-gloss mirror finish on the keys (as opposed to rubber), and some "enhanced backlighting." Those looking to head in the opposite direction can also now opt for Razer's new Arctosa keyboard (check it after the break), which does away with the backlighting and non-slip rubber finish altogether but hangs on to the usual programmable macro and media keys. You can look for it to be available in both silver on black and black on black versions for $50 next month, while the Lycosa Mirror will set you back $80 when it lands in December.
Source Engadget.

Logitech intros Cordless Vantage Microphone for Xbox 360 and PS2 / PS3

Think that bundled Rock Band / High School Musical Sing It! mic is totally weak sauce? Ready to drop $79.99 in order to prove it? If so, have a gander at Logitech's latest, the Cordless Vantage Microphone. Crafted to work with the Xbox 360, PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3 consoles, this AA (x2) powered device comes with a USB receiver and stand and supports a handful of titles including Boogie, American Idol Encore and the games we mentioned at the top. It'll be available this December, just in time for you to succumb to high prices for the sake of having something to shove under the tree.
Source Engadget.

PS2/PS3/PC version of the Access Controller now shipping

The time has come! The PS2/PS3/PC version of the Access Controller is now shipping, in case the headline above somehow slipped your view.

There's nothing quite like unboxing a box you designed...
Unboxing the unit. I went with a much simpler “blue” look for the box this time, with a couple Easter Eggs on there as well.

You can use the link over on the right-hand side of the site to place your order and read more about the unit. I guess you could also click right here, wow copy/paste is awesome!

We’re still working on the Xbox 360 version (review process and what not) and will keep you posted once we know more. But yes, for the Sony and PC fans though you’re ready to go… hope it works well for you!

Coming next week: a How-To guide on modding this controller to add your own peripherals. Yes, that’s right - how to hack a Benheck product.

I had no reservations about running this cheesy image

The bus-like nature of the module plugs and the fact there’s always one empty make this quite doable and easy. Add a foot pedal to better help those in need, a larger joystick, all sorts of stuff… stay tuned!
Source ben heck

Screw you, Rock Band: Taiko no Tatsujin's wireless drum

In the midst of the seemingly-endless avalanche of Nintendo news in the latter half of this week, the tiniest of precious jewels appeared. Is it as important as Club Nintendo in the U.S. or new games? No, but it's damned neat, and it's the Taiko no Tatsujin Wii bundle. The game, which is slated for Japan on December 12, will be bundled with a wireless drum. Now that's a big ol' Wii accessory we could really get behind. The bundle retails for ¥7,980 ($75), and additional drums can be purchased for ¥3,990 ($38).

Here's why this news isn't even cooler: we'll probably never see it, unless you want to go to the trouble of importing everything necessary to bang your drum in your living room. Rats!
Source Nintendo wii fanboy.

Details on Guitar Hero: World Tour pricing

Earlier today,we told you about a Guitar Hero: World Tour deluxe bundle. Some mistook that as a price for the whole entire band kit. On top of that, confusion surrounding the price for the bundle still gathered, enough so that Activision Blizzard had to clarify the issue. Pricing for the game's bundles is as follows:

* $190 for the full band kit
* $110 for the bundle we posted about earlier
* $100 for the guitar/game bundle
Source nintendo wii fanboy.

Xbox 360 battery pack teardown

Reader, [Fox9p3400], opened up an Xbox 360 controller battery pack so we could all see what goes into one. It contains two Sanyo 2100mAh NiMH AA rechargeables (Model HR-3U 1.2V). In addition to that, there is an Atmel microcontroller (not pictured) and the copper temperature probe you can see above. He has more pictures on Photobucket.

Source Hackaday

hand grenade mouse mod: don’t pull the pin!

I don’t know if I’d feel really comfortable putting my hand on this mouse, given the fact that it started its life as a device designed to blow off limbs.

Still, assuming the explosives have been thoroughly scrubbed from the innards of the old grenade casing, I suppose you’d look mighty macho controlling your computer with one of these bad boys. The guy who modded this one even went through the extra effort to wire up the trigger as the left mouse button.

It sure doesn’t look ergonomically friendly, but should you really expect comfort from a hand grenade anyway?
Source technabob.

Ever fancy using something else than a joypad with your megadrive?

Sebastian's work interfacing with old Sega hardware for sound synthesis seems to be paying off - and the results sound quite nice -

In this video, the Sega Mega Drive II is controlled via the MIDI keyboard controller. Various parameters can be controlled from the keyboard, as one can hear in the video.

- Sega Mega Drive MIDI Keyboard Video

His research even brings the iconic blue hedgehog under musical control.
Source Make: Blog.

Targus kicks out a slew of Mac-focused accessories

Targus is making a big deal about how it's launching its first-ever line of Mac accessories, but we're not seeing much here that's particularly platform-dependent -- just a lot of gray and white plastic. The $70 Bluetooth Laser Mouse, $50 Wireless Mouse, and $80 Bluetooth Presenter all feature an interesting touch-sensitive scroll nub that switches to cursor control on the presenter and offers four-way scrolling on the mice. There's also a $50 USB file-transfer cable that offers direct file transfers between PCs and Macs, a $30 four-port compact USB hub with wraparound cable, MacBook and MacBook Pro privacy screens that range from $50 to $80, and a $50 dual-fan cooling pad with a slight ergonomic tilt. All this should be available now -- PC owners, you'll just have to find something else to do with your useless, useless money.
Source Engadget

Red Xbox 360 Controller Available for $64.99

Microsoft has just announced that players will now be able to purchase a red Xbox 360 controller with black accents for a limited time.The controller will be available for $64.99 (USD) and will be wireless up to 30 feet. The package will also include a Play & Charge cable and a red rechargeable battery good for about 25 hours of use. The controller is available in the US, Canada, Latin America, Austrailia, New Zealand and Asia.
Source Gameplasma