004 | Loco Motion

For some time now, I've been eager to voice my opinion on the topic of motion controls. And I have to say... I really don't think it's going anywhere, at least not as far as hardcore gaming is concerned. Yes, it's been a big hit with the casual market, but we have to face it --- that's not what keeps the industry alive. People who play games in spits and spurts just aren't as willing to shell out the big bucks the same way people who perceive their hobby as a way of life are.

And the fact of the matter is... hardcore gamers just aren't digging it. Everytime I talk to someone who plays as much as I do, I get the same response: motion controls don't get the job done. In the words of Andy McNamara (editor-in-chief at Game Informer Magazine): "You move like a Frankenstein monster, not the master ninja gamers want to become".

It's not that motion controls can't be fun. On the contrary, I've had many a good time playing well-developed games for the Wii. But if I had to choose between that and the experience I have with a good old 360 controller --- well, no competition.

And frankly, the fact that both Microsoft and Sony are both about to release their own spin on the Wii Remote is a little unnerving. I suppose it's understandable... After all, this is the period of experimentation. We're all aching to find out what can be done with this new form of technology. Many of us believe that these are the first steps toward creating a completely immersive game experience (virtual reality, anyone?). And hopefully, Microsoft and Sony have the same vision. Because if they're primary goal is to make this means-to-an-end their next big thing... well, I just hope I'm not underneath it when the bottom falls out.