accessories

GamingBits Holiday 2010 Video Game Gift Guide - Peripherals and Accessories
Welcome to the start of our 2010 Holiday Gaming Gift Guide! Throughout the month of November and into December, GamingBits will be bringing you holiday video game gift-giving and wishlist ideas! The coverage begins with the latest technology in gaming peripherals and accessories for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, and PlayStation Portable.

Gaming peripherals and accessories are taking video game consoles beyond the box this holiday season. This year, it is especially significant for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 with the debut of their new motion control devices, Kinect and PlayStation Move respectively. Watch this list throughout November and December, and follow GamingBits on Twitter, for continual updates and notifications of special gaming deals as well!

Click a link below to see 2010′s newest and recommended gaming peripherals for:

PlayStation 3 | Xbox 360 | Wii | PSP

PlayStation 3

PlayStation Move

PlayStation Move

Minimum Requirements:
PlayStation 3 system
PlayStation Eye Camera
PlayStation Move controller (PS3 supports 1 – 4 units)

Highlights:

  • Allows for precise 1:1 motion tracking.
  • Great selection of supported games for seasoned gamers (ex: Resident Evil 5, MAG, Heavy Rain) and the more casual players (Sports Champions, Eye Pet).
  • Unique changing color lighting effect on controller; adapts to gameplay.
  • Built-in rechargeable battery (lithium-ion).
  • PlayStation Move games average at modest $29.99 to $39.99 MSRP, with many at $39.99.

PlayStation Move purchasing options:

All-in-one PlayStation Move solution:

ps3_move_bundle PlayStation 3 320GB PlayStation Move Sports Champions Bundle
$399.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

Includes everything you need to experience PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Move: PlayStation 3 320GB system, PlayStation Move controller, PlayStation Eye Camera, DUALSHOCK 3 controller, and Sports Champions PS3 PlayStation Move game.

For current PS3 owners:

ps_move_bundle PlayStation Move Starter Bundle
$99.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

This bundle packs a PlayStation Move controller, PlayStation Eye camera and one of the best games currently available for PlayStation Move, Sports Champions.

Individual PlayStation Move peripherals:

psmovecontroller PlayStation Move controller
$49.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

Up to four may be used with a PlayStation 3 system. Many games work with just one PlayStation Move controller. Some games, such as Sports Champions, can use two PlayStation Move controller for even greater control options (ex: one PS Move controller can work as a shield, while the other can work as a sword). Check individual PlayStation Move game requirements.

pseye_camera PlayStation Eye Camera
$39.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

Works in conjunction with PlayStation Move controller. Only one needed per PlayStation 3 system.

navigation_controller PlayStation Move Navigation Controller
$29.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

The Navigation controller is optional for comfort of one-handed control when used with a PlayStation Move controller. Although not required, it is certainly much more comfortable when used with games like MAG or Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition, versus holding the two-handed DUALSHOCK 3 controller in one hand.

Accessories for PlayStation Move:

chargingstation PlayStation Move Charging Station
$29.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

A convenient way to charge and store two PlayStation Move controllers or one PlayStation Move controller and a PlayStation Navigation controller.

psmove_guns PlayStation Move Gun & Rifle Controllers
$9.99 MSRP and up

With the new PlayStation Move, light-gun and rifle arcade shooting fun returns. See a variety of available PlayStation Move Gun and rifle controllers available here! Added comfort for light gun play.

Other PS3 accessories:

Sony PlayStation 3 Bluetooth Headset 2.0 PlayStation 3 Bluetooth Headset 2.0
$49.99 MSRP and up
(available for ordering here)

Sony has upgraded its Bluetooth Headset with a sleeker new look and 30% reduced size. The PS3 Bluetooth Headset 2.0 allows for noise-canceling in-game chat and improved mobile phone compatibility with Bluetooth compatible devices.

ps_soundbar PlayStation Surround Sound System Bar
$179.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

For players looking for an all-in-one surround system designed in one compact unit, and designed to complement the PlayStation 3, check out the PlayStation Surround Sound System.

TRON PS3 controller TRON PS3 Limited Edition controller
$49.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

The TRON controllers caught plenty of onlookers at E3 and at other gaming trade shows, and for good reason. They look super slick and have that signature TRON neon glow. These controllers will only be around for a limited time, so get don’t hesitate to get one if you’re really itching for a TRON decked-out controller! Makes a killer gift. Any gamer can use an extra controller.


PlayStation 3 accessory DEALS:

Keep a lookout here!


Xbox 360

kinect_holiday

kinect Kinect for Xbox 360
$149.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

Also available in Xbox 360 250GB bundle and Xbox 360 4GB bundle.

This is the universal peripheral for any age – no buttons to confuse inexperienced players! Gamers young and old will find it easy to get playing. Simple guided setup. Includes Kinect Adventures Xbox 360 game, along with three additional Kinect game demos.

Minimum Requirements:
Just an Xbox 360 console (compatible will all Xbox 360 and Xbox 360 S systems).

Highlights:

  • Controller-free play: Easy for anyone to jump in and play. No accidental controller tossing either!
  • Voice and camera recognition – Recognizes, tracks and signs-in players. Voice controlled navigation.
  • Enhanced video chat capabilities with other online friends.
  • Allows multiplayer gaming using just one Kinect sensor.

Accessories for Kinect:

kinect_wallmount Xbox 360 Kinect Wall Mount
14.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

Keeps Kinect secure in one place, for TVs mounted on the wall and projection screens.


Other Xbox 360 peripherals:

xbox360dpadcontroller Xbox 360 D-Pad controller with
Play & Charge Kit
$69.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

Microsoft hasn’t forgotten the core fans and refines the Xbox 360 controller with a creative new transforming D-pad design. This is especially useful for fighting games or for retro gamers who want a better experience in games like PAC-MAN.

TRON Xbox 360 controller TRON Xbox 360 Limited Edition controller
$49.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

The TRON controllers caught plenty of onlookers at E3 and at other gaming trade shows, and for good reason. They look super slick and have that signature TRON neon glow. These controllers will only be around for a limited time, so get don’t hesitate to get one if you’re really itching for a TRON decked-out controller! Makes a killer gift. Any gamer can use an extra controller.

Xbox 360 accessory DEALS:

Amazon.com is offering 20% off the Xbox 360 D-pad controller. Available here at $51.99, while supplies and offer lasts.


Wii


wii_remote_plus

wiiremoteplus Wii Remote Plus
$39.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

Nintendo finally packs the Wii Remote controller and Wii MotionPlus attachment in one. It basically looks, and has the same form factor, of the original Wii Remote controller but packs the functionality of the enhanced 1:1 tracking Wii MotionPlus. It’s also $30 less than what it used to cost for a Wii Remote and Wii Motion Plus add-on last year.

udraw_tablet uDraw GameTablet
$69.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

THQ delivers a drawing tablet for budding artists, and even has its own line of uDraw games. For gamers looking to dabble in art, the 4×6 uDraw Tablet allows exploration of 9 different media options. Artwork can be shared and brought to the computer via an SD card.

epic_mickey_nunchuk Wii Epic Mickey Paintbrush Nunchuk
$19.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

There won’t be a cooler Wii Nunchuk than this out for the holiday season. Especially designed to complement Epic Mickey for Wii!

TRON Wii controller TRON Wii Limited Edition controller
$49.99 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

The TRON controllers caught plenty of onlookers at E3 and at other gaming trade shows, and for good reason. They look super slick and have that signature TRON neon glow. These controllers will only be around for a limited time, so get don’t hesitate to get one if you’re really itching for a TRON decked-out controller! Makes a killer gift. Any gamer can use an extra controller.

Wii accessory DEALS:


PSP


vscreen

vscreen_psp V-Screen
$49.95 MSRP
(available for ordering here)

The V-Screen is a unique depth-enhancing attachment for PSP-1000 to 3000 models. Amplifies depth and screen image for a deeper effect in 3D games. Works great with games like God of War: Ghost of Sparta, WipEout, and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker. It does add a little weight, but also a lot more screen size and depth. The V-Screen stores the PSP safely as well.

PSP accessory DEALS:

The V-Screen is currently available at $20 from Amazon.com, while supplies last.

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PlayStation Move guns

Now that Sony’s PlayStation Move controller is available, you can be assured there are plenty of accessories lined up such as guns. These guns are not to be mistaken for Nerf Ballistic Ball toys or white Wii gun peripherals. Some go for a sci-fi feel, while others (especially outside of North America) go for a more realistic feel.

The gun accessories can be used with PlayStation Move compatible games such as Time Crisis: Razing Storm, Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition, The Shoot and more (some controller configurations may combine both the PlayStation Move controller the PlayStation Move Navigation controller in one). *Note: Check on compatibility of game and gun configuration, as this may vary by game.

Check out and click on the PlayStation Move gun accessories below for details on the price and availability.

PlayStation Move Shooting Attachment by Sony Computer Entertainment
This gun peripheral, or rather, a shooting attachment, is the most far removed from any type of a real gun. The color and form factor distinguish it from all the other guns here.

The guns of PlayStation Move

MOVE Precision Shot 3 by InterWorks Unlimited
This gun does have a sight alignment, but just the thought of looking down the scope causes a piercing sensation from my eyes to the back of my skull. That minor observance aside, the optional grip attachment could make for a nice Tommy Gun, depending on how developers implement the configuration.

PlayStation Move gun accessory

3DShot for PS3 Move (in red or in blue)
by Mad Catz

If simplicity but pistol form is what you’re after, select from the red or blue Mad Catz 3DShot.

PlayStation Move gun accessory

PS3 Special Ops Shooter for PS Move by Hyperkin
For those wanting a beefier pistol, check out this Special Ops PS Move gun accessory.

PlayStation Move gun accessory

PS3 Move Battle Rifle by ICON
The Battle Rifle has a unique break-away transforming design, allowing you to configure it in rifle or a pistol form as you please. The PlayStation Navigation controller also snugs into the handle.

PlayStation Move gun accessory

PlayStation Move Sharp Shooter Attachment by Sony Computer Entertainment
Set for release in February 2011, Sony’s Sharp Shooter rifle combines the functionality of the PlayStation Move Controller and PS Move Navigation Controller. It’s designed especially for use with games like Killzone 3, Dead Space Extraction, Time Crisis Razing Storm, and SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs.

PlayStation Move Sharp Shooter Attachment

SOCOM 4 U.S. Navy Seals Full Deployment Edition by Sony Computer Entertainment
Sony bundles up the Sharp Shooter Attachment along with everything you need for the complete PlayStation Move gameplay experience (PlayStation Move controller, PlayStation Move Navigation Controller, PlayStation Eye). Saves you $70 compared to buying the items included separately. Limited time deal.

SOCOM 4 U.S. Navy Seals Full Deployment Edition

PS3 Move Assault Rifle Controller by CTA
Features buttons on the rifle, as found on PS3 Dualshock controller. Even includes rumble effect and built-in speaker for sound effects.

PS3 Move Assault Rifle Controller by CTA

PS3 Move Blaster Combo Pack by DreamGear
The Move Blaster Pro houses both the PlayStation Move Controller and Navigation Controller in one shotgun-like form. The pistol controller features a rubberized grip.

PS3 Move Combo Blaster Pack

PlayStation Move Submachine Gun by CTA
Houses both the PlayStation Move Navigation Controller and the PlayStation Move controller. Features a removable scope and stock.

PlayStation Move Submachine Gun

Dual Shot (2-Pack) by ICON
Dual wielding guns! Is there a PS Move game which supports that? Not sure, but imagine the possibilities. Good set for co-op shooting games, with different translucent colored plastic to avoid confusion.

PlayStation Move gun accessory

Here are more PlayStation Move gun accessories, which are available outside of North America:
(*note: US Customs will not allow importing black colored guns into North America due to gun laws. Black colored toy guns are not permitted in US.)

PlayStation Move Hand Gun by Crown

PlayStation Move gun accessory

Peacemaker Gun by SpeedLink

PlayStation Move gun accessory

Venom Move Shooter by Venom

PlayStation Move gun accessory

Hubb Accessories Gun Move Compatible by Hubb

PlayStation Move gun accessory

Logic3 Move Machine Gun by Logic3

PlayStation Move gun accessory

Logic3 Move Sports Gun by Logic3

PlayStation Move gun accessory

PlayStation Move Big 3 Gun Shooting Perfect Pack by Sony Computer Entertainment Japan

PlayStation Move gun accessory

No word if any accessory manufacturer is producing a shark-like PlayStation Move gun. Spotted any other cool or unusual PS3 PlayStation Move gun accessories? Let us know with your comment(s)!

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The Nintendo DS and DS Lite just received a new accessory, very different from anything else out there in the gaming market, called the DIDGET. The DIDGET is actually a device for monitoring blood sugar levels in Diabetics. Type 1 Diabetes, unlike the more common Type 2 Diabetes, is a chronic disease that affects teens and even young children. Learning to live with the disease is an important part of living a long and healthy life. Diabetes is very much a numbers game, and keeping track of blood sugars results is a routine part of the day. Three to five blood tests are recommended daily, by taking a small sample of blood from a finger. For young children, that may be a tough thing to have to do daily, but the newly released DIDGET from Bayer should help motivate blood sugar testing, and even make it fun.

Bayer’s DIDGET taps into the Nintendo DS and DS Lite via the Game Boy cartridge slot. The DIDGET meter, very much like the standard blood testing device used to monitor blood sugar levels, is the only device of its kind that works with the Nintendo DS and DS Lite system. After taking a blood test, the DIDGET can be attached to the Nintendo DS. The DIDGET
then applies a reward score for the blood sugar result numbers. Additional data is taken into consideration (ex: frequency of tests) for a reward score. Games can be played via a DS cartridge which is also included. Additional mini-games can be unlocked by earning reward points.

Here are more details on the DIDGET from Bayer:
"Bayer’s DIDGET meter is intended for use by kids ages 4-14 and grows with the child’s ability to manage their diabetes, offering two testing levels, Basic and Advanced. It comes with Knock ‘Em Downs: World’s Fair that includes a full length adventure game and mini game arcade. The DIDGET meter will connect to Bayer’s DIDGET World (www.bayerdidget.com), a password-protected Web community that is coming soon, where kids can spend points that they earn from consistent monitoring practices and create their own page."

The DIDGET is an innovative and fun way to help keep kids on track with a serious disease that requires daily monitoring. Bayer’s DIDGET meter is now available for a $74.99 MSRP in North America from retailers such as CVS and Walgreens.com.

You can find more information and see a demo of the DIDGET at www.bayerdidget.com.

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Today Nintendo launched the Nintendo DSi XL system in North America. The new Nintendo DSi XL is available in Burgundy (here) or Bronze (here) for $189.99 MSRP each. This is pretty much a larger version of the dual-camera Nintendo DSi system. Some features, besides the obviously larger screen sizes, that stand out on the Nintendo DSi XL versus the DSi are two locking viewing angles, louder/crisper speakers, a larger stylus, 3 additional DSiWare games and apps included, and a glossy top outer panel with matte bottom panel. To me, the D-pad and Power/Reset button also felt a bit better or snappier on the DSi XL than the DSi. At $20 more than the regular DSi, I would say go for the DSi XL if you don’t mind the larger form factor as a portable. The weight really doesn’t feel too much heavier than the DSi either. You may also want to consider trading up your Nintendo DSi with an offer noted further below (*note: if you’ve previously purchased DSiWare games or apps on a DSi, Nintendo currently doesn’t have a plan in place to allow you to re-download the games on the DSi XL. It’s currently unclear if Nintendo will allow you to re-download the games).

See a photo comparison below of the Nintendo DSi XL (Bronze) versus the Nintendo DS Lite (Silver) here or in full screen here, as well as what’s included in the box of the Nintendo DSi XL. There are clear pictures of the DSi XL Bronze. The color and texture of the DSi XL Bronze may be difficult to see online. These pictures will really help you understand the glossy top outer texture and bottom color and texture of the DSi XL Bronze. It’s like a dark brown on the inside, nearly black.

(See a previous DS Lite vs. DSi feature comparison here to understand the major differences of the Nintendo DS Lite versus the DSi.)

GameStop is currently offering a trade-in offer for the previous Nintendo DS Lite or DSi. You can purchase the Nintendo DSi XL for $99.99 (save $90) if you trade-in your DSi, or purchase the DSi XL for $129.99 (save $60) if you trade in a DS Lite. See the trade up deal here on GameStop.com.

Accessories currently available for the Nintendo DSi XL include:

Nintendo DSi XL Screen protector
Nintendo DSi XL Essential Starter Kit XL
Nintendo Dsi XL Silver Aluminum Case XL and Pen Stylus X

Order the Nintendo DSi XL Burgundy here.
Order the Nintendo DSi XL Bronze.

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Nyko Technologies has announced plenty of new gaming gear at the Consumer Electronics Show 2010 for the Wii, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Of note is a Wii controller that combines the functionality of Nintendo’s Wii Remote controller and Wii Motion Plus all in one with the Wand +.

You can watch for these new gaming accessories from Nyko to arrive throughout 2010. Details on the newly announced products are listed below, including product photos, estimated release date and price. All information is as noted by Nyko.

From Nyko Technologies:

New Wii gaming accessories:

Wand +™ 
(see product images here)
Release date: March 2010
MSRP: $39.99
"The Wand + is designed to be the most advanced and user-friendly controller on the market for the Wii. Instead of requiring additional attachments or dongles for accurate motion control, the Wand + features Full Motion Technology™ built directly into the controller, allowing full 1:1 movement tracking that is compatible with all games that utilize the Wii Motion Plus™ attachment. By building the technology into the controller, the Wand + provides all the functionality Wii gamers expect, plus the versatility and convenience they deserve; no more dongles, no more custom sleeves or incompatibility with docks and other accessories not able to accommodate attached dongles. The Wand + also contains Nyko’s award-winning Trans-Port Technology, which allows key action buttons to be digitally replicated on other devices and pass sound and vibration signals to attached peripherals for the ultimate immersive gameplay experience. The Wand + features a fresh new design for a sleek, high-tech minimalist look."

Charge Base Quad™ IC
 - Available in White & Black
(see product images here)
Release date: March 2010
MSRP: $49.99
"Based on the popular Charge Base IC for the Wii, the Charge Base Quad IC utilizes induction technology to charge up to four controllers. Like the original Charge Base IC, the design of the Charge Base Quad IC enables Wii Remotes or Wands to be charged without having to remove silicone sleeves, Wii Motion Plus™ or other attachments. The Charge Base Quad IC also features dual charge indicator lights and a powered USB port that can be used for charging other devices."

Type Pad Pro for Wii (previously announced)
(see product image here)
Release date: 2010
MSRP: unknown
"Includes a QWERTY keypad ideal for online navigation and game chat interaction."

Features noted:
- QWERTY keypad ideal for online navigation and game chat
interaction
– Trans-Port™ Technology allows for the A and B button to be
utilized directly from the Type Pad
– Can be used with Nyko Wand™ and Wii Remote™
– Ergonomic design allows for comfortable thumb typing
– Up to 25 foot wireless range
– Wand or Wii Remote central placement allows for easy
navigation and field selection
– No additional batteries required

Charge Base IC - Black (previously announced)
(see product image here)
Release date: 2010
MSRP: $34.99
"The Charge Base IC uses high end induction technology that allows for contact-less recharging meaning that silicone sleeves, Wii Motion Plus™ and other attachments do not need to be removed before placing in the Wii Remote or Wand in the dock. The Charge Base IC dual port rapid recharging dock features 2 unique cradles that magnetically hold each controller, suspending and displaying it inside in the dock. Each cradle also glows indicating the charge status of the NiMH rechargeable batteries which can both supply up to 10 hours of playtime on a full charge. The Charge Base IC conveniently plugs into any wall outlet allowing for the fastest recharging time possible, and with Nyko’s Port Free AC adaptor with an outlet pass-through port, the unit won’t take up any additional power outlets. The powered USB port in back also allows you to easily recharge USB compatible devices. The Charge Base IC’s stunning and unique design matches the Wii aesthetic and is perfect to display and charge your controllers."


New PlayStation 3 accessories from Nyko:

Media Hub Slim™ 
(see product image here)
Release date: April 2010
MSRP: $19.99
"The Media Hub Slim works with the PlayStation®3 Slim (PS3 Slim) in vertical or horizontal position and easily snaps onto the console to match the color and contour of the PS3 Slim, and allows users to connect double the USB devices such as flash drives, PSP, MP3 players and guitar/drum controllers.

The Media Hub Slim adds two additional USB ports and a media card reader slot that supports SD cards and Sony Memory Sticks to enable content to be easily transferred to a PS3 Slim. In addition, the Media Hub Slim also includes a remote for basic control of menus, movies, music and more. Its unique design requires no tools or internal modifications, draws its power directly from the PS3 Slim and easily installs in just seconds."

Intercooler Slim™ 
(see product image here)
Release date: February 2010
MSRP: $19.99
"The latest installment in the company’s popular Intercooler line of game console cooling devices, the Intercooler Slim includes three powerful fans to reduce ambient air temperature by moving hot air away from the PS3 Slim. The Intercooler Slim can be easily snapped onto the back of the console, and with a patented power pass through connection, no AC adaptor is required. The device features variable fan-speed control for customized cooling, automatically turns on and off with the PS3 Slim and can be used with the console in vertical and horizontal position."

New Xbox 360 accessory:

Speaker Com 360
(see product image here)
Release date: 2010
MSRP: unknown
"2-in-1 Speakerphone / Headset Combo"

Features noted:
- Tangle resistant flat wire.
- Easy to access mute button with locking feature located conveniently on the controller.
- Dual mode, allows for headset use, or built in speaker.
- Comfortable stereo in ear headphones in headset mode.
- Crisp, speakerphone-like functionality in speaker mode – perfect for a room full of friends.
- Ultra light design requires no additional batteries.
- No ear fatigue or uncomfortable pressure from head band in speaker mode.
- Ideal for use with Xbox Live games.
- Keep your hands on the controller and focus on the game.

From Nyko Technologies


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