Game Gear: 2011’s Weirdest Gaming Accessories
JOYSTICK-IT ($24.95, www.thinkgeek.com) – Handling like a real arcade joystick, this aluminum model for tablet PCs including the iPad affords greater precision when shooting down spaceships, scavenging dragons’ hordes or leaping high above enemy-infested pastel landscapes.
Power Shot for PlayStation Move ($TBA, www.nyko.com) – Out in March, transforms the motion-sensing wand into a plastic rifle, supposedly making it simpler and more stable to control in interactive shooting galleries, but more likely just to inspire action hero-style showboating.
Switchblade ($TBA, www.razerzone.com) – Albeit just a concept design, this striking, Intel Atom-based mobile PC model wows with its 7-inch multi-touch screen and a keyboard whose keys, set atop an LCD display, change based on the game being played.
Wii Inflatable Racing Kart ($39.99, www.ctadigital.com) – Huff and puff to create your own mountable go-kart, which includes a dashboard steering wheel cradle which the Wii remote can be inserted into for added fun and absurdity in Mario Kart and other favorites.
Spyder Gaming Hub ($129, www.atlantic-inc.com) – Lack of actual arachnid-like qualities aside, this recyclable steel combo TV stand and storage unit with clutter-busting accessories accepts up to 40-inch, 90lb flat-planet sets, and holds games, systems and accessories. Reputedly taking roughly 30 minutes to assemble the 27lb package’s dozen-odd parts, here’s hoping it includes space for your dignity around back.