Introduction
One of the most important things for console gamers is their controller or game pad. The controller is a instrument of mass destruction to some, but a surgically precise tool for others.
Gamers, being gamers, would blame the controllers as their prime reason for loosing/dying/failing in game. As such, physical blame is often directed to it (ala FPS Doug).
Therefore, great gamers desire great equipment, in this case, a good game pad. However, the market limits what a manufacturer can do to differentiate themselves, After all, to most, a controller is a controller. Or is it?
Today, we will be looking at one of the most interesting controllers out there, one that has differentiated itself from the rest of the pack by supporting motion-sensing. Interested yet? Let's see who's behind it!
Based in Palm Beach, Floriday, eDimensional has been in the business of creating gaming-related hardware and software since 2000.
Since the release of their flagship product - the E-D 3D Gaming System, they have since branched out into other gaming accessories. They now have products in the following categories :
- 3D Hardware and Software
- Voice Recognition
- Motion Tracking
- Force Feedback
Today, we are going to take a look at their latest Motion Tracking product - the eDimensional G-Pad Pro Gyroscopic Gamepad! In fact, we will be looking at both their PC version as well as their PlayStation 2 version. Let's take a look!
Packaging
Both PlayStation 2 and PC versions of the eDimensional G-Pad Pro come in clear blister packs. The G-Pad Pro box for the PC version has a green motif while the PS2 version has an orange motif. You can clearly see the G-Pad Pro controller through the clear plastic cover in the front.
At the back, eDimensional highlights the G-Pad Pro's features. If you can't figure it out by now, the key feature of this gamepad is its gyroscopic motion sensor. But more on that later.
Let's cut them loose from their packaging first and have a closer look!
Contents
The PC version of the G-Pad Pro comes with the G-Pad Pro controller, a full color manual, and a CD with the G-Pad Pro drivers. As you can see, the PC version of the G-Pad Pro connects via a USB port. The four buttons on the right are also numbered.
The PlayStation version of the eDimensional G-Pad Pro only comes with the controller itself and a manual. The manual is very well laid-out and is printed in color (somewhat of a rarity these days). This G-Pad Pro plugs into the standard PS2 controller port. The four buttons on the right have a somewhat different look. Trademark issues perhaps?
Both versions of the G-Pad comes with Dual Shock/Force Feedback to really feel the action.