Nintendo unveils Revolution controller...TV remote?

TOKYO--When Nintendo unveiled the "revolutionary" controller for its upcoming next-generation console, gamers across the globe said, "Gee, that looks like a TV remote control."

Now it is--sort of.

As part of the Club Nintendo program, a rewards-based Nintendo fan club, the company will be giving away a free television remote control in the shape and size of the Revolution's controller. The remote control is only for television sets and has no gaming functions. Still, avid Nintendo fans will be able to play around with a replica Revolution controller before the console actually hits retailers.

The Revolution controller will only be given to Club Nintendo members with a platinum membership, the highest-ranking status awarded by the program. Members need 400 rank points to reach platinum status, which can be earned by purchasing about 10 new GBA games or seven new GameCube games within a year. Platinum members will also receive a free calendar, which comes as the only bonus for members with a gold status (users with 200-399 rank points).