Sources: Microsoft to Launch Wii-like Controller in 2008


According to an anonymous source close to MTV News, Microsoft will soon launch a Wii Remote imitator for Xbox 360, replete with Mii knock-offs, in an effort to capitalize on Nintendo's raging success.

"They want the usual assortment of 'Halo'/ 'Gears'/ 'Forza'/ whatever, just in waggle form," the nameless developer said. "Microsoft is trying to decide how to get something out by the end of the year."

The loose-lipped mole sketched a design of the last-known prototype, that looks eerily similar to the Wii Remote, but says development problems have arose because Microsoft is impatiently trying to ship the product.

"The whole thing is a colossal cluster----," the source went onto say. "[Microsoft] marketing just want it so they can match the Wii point for point. The biggest parts of their marketing materials outline how easy it would be for third parties to port their Wii games to the 360."

MTV News added that it has "confirmed Microsoft's active interest in developing a motion-sensitive controller with other industry sources."

Previously, Microsoft has publicly doubted the long-term viability of motion as it pertains to video game controllers while noting the initial success Nintendo has so far enjoyed.

Microsoft declined comment on Monday when contacted by GamePro. "We do not comment on rumors or speculation," a representative said in an email.

In a February 2008 interview with GameDaily, Sony's VP of product marketing said a Wii-like controller would not be needed.

"I think a Wii Remote style would feel a bit less innovative on the PS2, so I don't think we have any plans to go there," said Scott Steinberg. "I think it's interesting to think of what different controller configurations could do for the PS3 and possibly for the PS2, but as a Wii Remote knock off, I don't think we're in the business of creating knock offs."

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