Microsoft working on motion-sensing controller?

  • By Polybren, GameSpot
  • Posted Apr 7, 2008 5:03 pm PT

Source: An MTV News article reports that Microsoft has been working on a motion-sensing Xbox 360 controller. The official story: "Microsoft does not comment on rumors and speculation" --A Microsoft representative. What we heard: The MTV News article brings back a rumor that has surfaced from time...

Source: An MTV News article reports that Microsoft has been working on a motion-sensing Xbox 360 controller.

The official story: "Microsoft does not comment on rumors and speculation" --A Microsoft representative.

What we heard: The MTV News article brings back a rumor that has surfaced from time to time in connection with both Microsoft and Sony ever since Nintendo unveiled the Wii's motion-sensing controller. Citing a developer who wishes to remain anonymous, MTV reports that Microsoft has been working on a motion-sensing controller since last August, with an eye for releasing it by the end of the year. It also notes that Banjo Kazooie developer Rare has been busy creating "a unified interface and look for the controller." Rare is also working on a Mii-like avatar system for games using the controller, but the source says that the company has been missing its deadlines.

The controller itself, as illustrated by the source's crude sketch (pictured) is laid out much like a Wii Remote, albeit with an analog stick instead of a D pad and no Nunchuk attachment. It also adds a built-in microphone to the basics of Nintendo's pad.

However, the report seems to contradict itself when it comes to what sort of Xbox 360 games would use a motion-sensing controller. Microsoft reportedly wants more of the same Gears of War, Halo, and Forza Motorsport titles that are already popular on the system. But in referencing marketing materials that were shown to the developer, the source told MTV that one of the biggest selling points was how easy it would be to port Wii games to the Xbox 360 using the controller.

"The whole thing is a colossal clusterf***," the unimpressed source told MTV. "[Microsoft] marketing just wants it so they can match the Wii point for point."

It's no secret that Microsoft has its eye on motion-sensing game controllers. The company patented new motion-sensing technology two years ago and was among the first to toy with the idea in a gaming context when it launched the Sidewinder Freestyle Pro gaming pad nearly a decade ago. Add to that the fact that the Xbox 360 is the only system with no motion-sensing functionality whatsoever and Microsoft's system has a conspicuously absent feature.

However, today's news of 360 motion-sensing tech is no more concrete than it was last week or last year. Game companies spend a considerable chunk of money on research and development, and there's no shortage of interesting technology that was toyed with and then abandoned by console makers because it just didn't work for them. Add in the developer's assertion that "the whole thing is a colossal clusterf***" and Rare's reported difficulty getting traction on the project, and you have a proposed peripheral that could easily get delayed or canned entirely.

Bogus or not bogus?: Not bogus that Microsoft has done research on motion-sensing tech for the 360. Bogus that this is the motion-sensing we'll eventually see the Xbox 360 adopt. Also bogus that we can expect Gears of Waggle for the holidays.

324 Comments

  • InfectX

    Posted Jul 14, 2008 4:31 pm PT

    This is probably for the next gen console. And it's a good thing because now maybe Nintendo will worry about graphics next gen.

  • normsta

    Posted Jul 14, 2008 2:27 pm PT

    I wonder if they are going to release a new 360 sku for this new controller. i couldn't seee why not since the M$ like to rip[ people off all the time.

  • abu123

    Posted Jul 14, 2008 1:02 pm PT

    Why is everyone calling this a Wii rip off isn't Ps3 doing the same thing with home and stuff.

  • 00Rambol00

    Posted Jun 17, 2008 4:03 am PT

    The picture of the remote concept just makes me laugh...

    Thats blatenly a "Wii" style remote. What are Microsoft going to do next, buy out the gaming compettion maybe? lol probably in the end

  • Red_Flag

    Posted Jun 16, 2008 6:51 pm PT

    I'm oddly ok with there being "Miis" on the 360. I love it on my Wii, I'll love it on my 360!

  • snakes3425

    Posted Jun 16, 2008 3:47 pm PT

    An X-Mote: Cool idea, but this is something that the 720 should have, not the 360

  • imperial_agent

    Posted Jun 16, 2008 2:26 pm PT

    this would be cool.

    it's like the Wii... but with 360 graphics and achievement points. sign me up!

  • franky111

    Posted Jun 16, 2008 1:52 pm PT

    i want an internet browser

  • XxFAZExX

    Posted May 24, 2008 3:06 pm PT

    ps3 copied wii? nah....
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cOBtMMWteA

  • enix165

    Posted May 15, 2008 1:41 pm PT

    Sort of a late post, but...rd1858's right. That's a ripoff if I ever saw one. But Nintendo's dead meat if it comes out, because Microsoft's gonna be using it for gory games, which Nintendo refuses to do because they know that gaming's still for kids, and it seems that gore makes a game nowadays.

  • kelseyxo

    Posted Apr 26, 2008 4:09 pm PT

    I hope they do this and I hope it is better than Nintendo's to show how much theirs sucks. I would be motivation for Nintendo to come up with something new.

    Virtual Reality anyone?

  • DaMaDdEsTDoG

    Posted Apr 12, 2008 5:57 am PT

    Wasn't That An April Fool?

  • legostarwar12

    Posted Apr 11, 2008 11:29 pm PT

    That 's...odd I'd thought if Microsoft was working on a motion-sensing controller, Their controller would be like the Dual shock 2/3 except it would be a LOT better.

  • legostarwar12

    Posted Apr 11, 2008 11:27 pm PT

    That 's...odd I'd thought if Microsoft was working on a motion-sensing controller, Their controller would be like the Dual shock 2/3 except it would be a LOT better.

  • legostarwar12

    Posted Apr 11, 2008 11:25 pm PT

    That 's...odd I'd thought if Microsoft was working on a motion-sensing controller, Their controller would be like the Dual shock 2/3 except it would be a LOT better.

  • legostarwar12

    Posted Apr 11, 2008 11:24 pm PT

    That 's...odd I'd thought if Microsoft was working on a motion-sensing controller, Their controller would be like the Dual shock 2/3 except it would be a LOT better.

  • thenephariouson

    Posted Apr 10, 2008 5:32 am PT

    Shove the 'Motion Controll' BS and concentrate on something TRULY Innovative. Check this link!!
    .
    http://www.trustedreviews.com/multimedia/news/2008/04/08/Video-Glasses-Go-Mass-Market-As-3-Signs-Up-Vuzix/p1

  • Great_Ragnarok

    Posted Apr 10, 2008 12:12 am PT

    rd1858

    wow, can anyone say wii ripoff...
    ============================
    how????? Motion sensing technology is not revolutionary at all. They have been here for a long time. the only rip off maybe the design but I doubt that design will be implemented.
    in my opinion they should use this only for casual gaming. I'd hate to see GoW 3or NG3 using this controllers.

  • Master_Jdog

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 6:44 pm PT

    I remember hearing way back in 2006 fanboys shouted "PS3 is ripping of Wii" which is not really true they did get the idea from the wii but i don't believe they copied as much as people said they did. But back on subject if this is true it's pathetic i own an X-box 360 but if Microsoft really wants to pass wii innovate don't copy.

  • Nintendevil

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 12:51 pm PT

    I'm sorry, but seriously. It was Nintendo who came up with it. I don't care if it's "buisness" or not. MS needs to fail, because they jumped the boat late. nobady likes a ripoff.

  • dmish82

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 12:34 pm PT

    This is the stupidest thing I've seen in a while.

  • reign_six6six

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 10:48 am PT

    Yeah I kinda hate the Wii I just cant stand those controllers. I did however like how the PS3 did it. Didn't OVER USE it. So I don't know. if they make it like that than that's fine I guess. But please don't go Wii on us.. *sigh*

  • Ahiru-San

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 9:27 am PT

    lol, gears of waggle!

    anyways, leave the 360 controller alone, I got a 360 for games, a ps3 for blu ray movies and a wii for JUST waggling games (party games actually). so, LEAVE IT ALONE!!!

  • taurian0205

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 9:17 am PT

    i personally want motion-sensing technology for my xbox 360, because i paid for my console as everybody else did, so i just want the better out of it, copycat or whatever you guys want to call it but the more feature, the more better for us consumers, am i right?

    keep your mind set on the extensions of your 360, u paid for it and you deserves better. im pretty sure none of u want to look at ur console and thinking u should get a wii or ps3 for motion-sensing experience.

    ps: i cramped my arms for playing wii boxing, it was fun as hell but then... im all about the graphics so the wii doesnt really interest me. but overall, pc owns!

  • taurian0205

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 9:17 am PT

    i personally want motion-sensing technology for my xbox 360, because i paid for my console as everybody else did, so i just want the better out of it, copycat or whatever you guys want to call it but the more feature, the more better for us consumers, am i right?

    keep your mind set on the extensions of your 360, u paid for it and you deserves better. im pretty sure none of u want to look at ur console and thinking u should get a wii or ps3 for motion-sensing experience.

    ps: i cramped my arms for playing wii boxing, it was fun as hell but then... im all about the graphics so the wii doesnt really interest me. but overall, pc owns!

  • The_Nun_Eater

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 9:04 am PT

    Imma call bull sh*t on this one.

  • thenephariouson

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 6:19 am PT

    MS should leave the 'gimmicky' motion stuff to Nintendo & Sony!! We dont want or need this garbage!!!!

  • thenephariouson

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 6:19 am PT

    MS should leave the 'gimmicky motion stuff to Nintendo & Sony!! We dont want or need this garbage!!!!

  • Dreski83

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 5:27 am PT

    yea... I'm not too interested in something called Gears of Waggle either

  • Agulf

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 3:45 am PT

    Microsoft tried motion sensing controllers way before nintendo, and it didn't work for them. Some other company which I can't remember did it before microsoft. So no, microsoft is not "running out of ideas" or "ripping of" the wii.

  • HappyBB

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 3:00 am PT

    I remember Microsoft was asked about the popularity of Wii's control scheme last year if it would create something similar. MS said that the motion-sensing technology "isn't" matured enough for the market and it will not create such device for its 360 console. If MS was to create the motion-sensing controllers for its current console, then it is biting its own words!! Microsoft, since you lack the confidence in motion-sensing controllers, then don't create one at all!! Stick to your lack-of-confidence words and watch the other guys play!

  • drangel_jam

    Posted Apr 9, 2008 2:44 am PT

    Talking about ripping off the Wii. Wow, I'd understand if they'd do something like the PS3, such as full 360 degrees of 3D motion sensing, withing the same controller. But, a remote-like peripheral is too much. They might as well make something like the Seen it controller only with motion.

  • Ryukin116

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 9:45 pm PT

    It doesn't fit the subject but why does the 360 have almost the same games as the ps3 please answer without calling me a retard and what not.

  • jyurakyumihawk

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 7:47 pm PT

    Do they really have to use their resources into this? Seems kinda like a waste, and it's not like a ground-breaking thing anyway. Though Wii and High-Def together does sound really tempting.

  • Shishio817

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 7:46 pm PT

    I hope they don't put motion sensing in the 360. There's already enough with the Wii (and PS3 to an extent), and I don't think I'd like any more.

  • EnozmeH

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 6:21 pm PT

    Hahaha... of course, following in the Wii's foot steps! Can't wait till we see the hate mail and hilarious future bashing of Microsoft

  • doctores143

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 6:01 pm PT

    They cant do that! thats not fare thats plagurizm! They just changed a few buttons on the controler. This will surely be the downfall of the wii

  • taj7575

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 5:55 pm PT

    but, yeah...in the end the 360 does not need a motion-sensing controller.

    look at six-axis, my friend with a ps3 says he doesnt even care about it.

    six-axis was used with marketing, just like blu-ray. nobody really cares about either

  • taj7575

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 5:52 pm PT

    "It's no secret that Microsoft has its eye on motion-sensing game controllers. The company patented new motion-sensing technology two years ago and was among the first to toy with the idea in a gaming context when it launched the Sidewinder Freestyle Pro gaming pad nearly a decade ago."

    ok, i think that quote should calm down the flam. that shows that they have been working on a motion-sensing controller for a WHILE.

    who knows, maybe theyre cooking up a masterpiece?

  • Eternal_Phoenix

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 5:37 pm PT

    "...port Wii games to the Xbox 360" LOL oh yeah, that make sense, it has be BS. or maybe they want to play Lair on 360 LMAO

  • 1colin1

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 5:18 pm PT

    I don't want motion-sensing on the 360. I don't find flapping my hands around with a controller to be fun. I like good old buttons to mash but it will most likely not stay this way.

    I guess I'll end up being stuck with the PC unless they come out with motion-sensing keyboard/mouse, now that will be too far...

    And no they can't be sued for making there own type of an already exciting product, if that was the case then every car company would be getting sued left, right and center.

  • Pete5506

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 5:05 pm PT

    why would they need one?

  • ctg867

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 4:35 pm PT

    idk my bff jill

    Really though, I couldn't care less. I just don't want a Wii rip off for the 360. Sixaxis can be cool if it's use correctly, and applied in the right places. But I feel like a 360 with motion sensing, that looks anything like that, would truly be a rip off.

  • christopherneal

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 4:20 pm PT

    I have zero interest in motion sensing technology for my personal gaming experience. I have mixed feeling regarding motion sensing to begin with. If I want a workout then I head to the hoop court or football field. I'm not interested in jumping around in my living room while playing Madden. I got enough problems stopping the blitz! My two cents.

  • roll450

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 4:17 pm PT

    As said with almost everyone. PLEASE Microsoft dont make a motion sensitive control. It still makes having a controller in your hand feel more easy.

  • thekey

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 4:06 pm PT

    I think all this "motion sensing" Research is for the next geration Xbox complete with a Blu-ray drive.

  • aznhayato7

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 2:54 pm PT

    I think Microsoft is too late. If they were going to do this, they should have done it before the Xbox 360 launched. When everybody thinks of motion sensing, they will always think of the Wii. Even the PS3 has motion sensing, and nobody really knows or cares about it. Besides, there must be a reason why Sony and Nintendo decided to use Bluetooth for their controllers. Bluetooth is probably the best suitable device for something as complex as motion sensing and the Xbox 360 just uses some proprietary infrared sensor made by Microsoft.

  • SyrusKahn

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 2:31 pm PT

    i love my ps3 but i hardly use the motion sixaxis whenever i play games. i will only play the unique games that use it.

  • LivingDeadNinja

    Posted Apr 8, 2008 1:36 pm PT

    Ridiculous. Anyway, if the main job is on Rare, we can MAYBE expect it to launch with the next XBOX system...

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