The controller is the single device used as the interface between the player and the game. A plethora of funds helped innovate this next-generation of controllers. According to Kotaku.com, Microsoft has reportedly dumped $100 million dollars into their new controller.
Much like some folks were weary about the touchpad on the new PlayStation 4 controller, Xbox experimented with different prototypes too. One of those prototypes was a controller that would admit a smell through the controller itself. The example given by Zulfi Alam, Xbox’s general manager for accessories:
“We looked at concepts like adding displays to the controller. We looked at concepts like adding smell. We built small slugs of different types of smells that could actually come out of a controller, like, as you walked through a jungle, you’d smell the flora.”
As gimmicky as that may sound, I’d really like to try that thing out. Of course does that mean my house would then smell like a men’s locker room after playing some NBA 2K14? I hope not, that might be the deterrent here (that’s a joke folks). Unfortunately they’ve axed that feature, along with a touch screen.
Considering these guys went through 200 prototypes to conclude what is now a unique rumble feature in the triggers, better textured analog sticks, and a lighter controller, I feel more confident than ever in these next-gen controllers, and their ability to help the player delve into the atmosphere of any game… and you should too.
Whether you smell bad or not, keep checking back here at Gameskinny.com for all your vidja games news.
