New Sony Controller Features Balls, Wands

Kris Erickson • Oct 31, 2008 • Comments ()

It's a good thing that we are professionals here at PS3 Informer. Otherwise, the newly-revealed Sony controller patent -- which shows a series of both smooth and hairy balls attached to control sticks -- would probably result in a flurry of immature, peurile penis jokes. But not here. We are way above that sort of thing. The patent, which was filed on October 23, 2008, may depict the long-rumored "break apart" controller. While many believed that Sony would continue in the same direction as their workhorse DualShock design, it seems that they are considering a completely different concept for the shape of this new device.

The patent document illustrates plans for a modular, motion-sensing controller that bears a striking resemblance to a long, smooth wand with a big round ball at the end of it. Players are urged to face the screen, either by themselves or with friends, as they grasp their wands firmly in one hand. With gentle or vigorous motions, players then wave their wands back and forth to elicit a response from the game. A camera is trained on the action, and records the movement of the balls and wands as they are waved back and forth in front of the screen. Occasionally, players will be urged to snap their wands and balls together, to create a pair, which then has greater functionality.

Phew. I think we made it through that description without making a single childish joke. Go us! We are sure that sony fans can't wait to get their hands on these, but the design -- if it ever becomes a reality -- is surely a long way off. In the meantime, here are some additional images, taken from the patent documents: