GDC 2015: Getting to Know the Realm Resistance Training Controller [VIDEO]

[[Coi] Mr.CLuBBeR]

Adding physicality to gaming

One of the things that motion controllers have helped popularize is the fitness gaming category. We've seen it on consoles and the PC alike, and it's a trend that isn't going away. Just the opposite, there are new products coming out to make gaming even more physical. While at GDC, we stopped by to check one of them out -- the Realm resistance training controller, which is intended to make you forget you're getting a workout.
Whether it's slashing zombies with a knife or boxing an opponent, the greater the force you put into your swings, the harder you'll hit your virtual opponent. According to Realm, the fitness benefit is simply a byproduct of playing whatever particular title has you working up a sweat.
The controller consists of a strap that goes around your waist. Hand grips attach to both sides. Inside the hand grips are a bunch of sensors that communicate with a camera, be it a Kinect or a webcam, to measure how much force is being used when you flail about. It's also a wireless control scheme that communicates with a USB dongle.
Check it out below, and if you like what you see, you can back the project on Kickstarter.



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