PLAYSTATION 2 SEES THE LIGHT
When shopping for the upcoming holidays, fun, entertainment and games are way up there on the gift list. So far, the two biggest game console platforms continue to vie for new ways of keeping the excitement factor pinned to the floor. One of the newest peripheral devices for the PlayStation 2 system is a very unique type of controller that is actually a video camera.
Normally, game playing is done via the hand-held controllers that come with the PlayStation 2 console. Variations of the controllers include steering wheel and foot pedal devices. But the EyeToy uses video technology to translate physical movement into something the specially designed PlayStation 2 console games can understand.
Developed exclusively for the PlayStation 2, the EyeToy is a video camera that plugs into the PlayStation 2's USB port located on the front of the console. Once connected, you simply point the camera towards yourself or anyone who wants to play the game. The image of the player is projected onto the video screen where they become one of the actual characters of the game itself.
To make things work, instead of using the game controller, the player must move their hands, feet and even their knees to manipulate the gaming action. All of their movement is detected by the EyeToy's built-in camera and is translated into corresponding motion within the game. Depending on the game, different motions mean different actions.
Included with the Eyetoy camera are 12 different games with titles such as "Kung Foo" where players use their hands and feet in much the same manner as a martial artist would to inflict punches, jabs and kicks. But all of the mayhem is applied to the game's competing video characters. With "Beat Freak," players get to strut their stuff on the dance floor to compete with the best video dancing characters. "Soccer Craze" lets you kick the ball and compete to score the most goals. There's even a game (Wishi-Washi) that pits you against the clock as you try and wash as many dirty windows as you can before your time runs out. Talk about total immersion into an entertainment product. With the EyeToy, you get to physically act in much the same manner as you would in the real world. Matrix, eat your heart out.
In addition to games, the EyeToy can be used for video messaging, You can record up to 60 seconds of video into an 8 megabyte memory card. Send the card to another PlayStation 2 for playback of your personal message. You can even enhance your messages by applying various backgrounds that can replace where you are really located, just in case your room is a mess.
The EyeToy is a very cool gaming peripheral but at around $50, don't expect dead-on accuracy when it comes to translating every move you make. However, this is one entertainment product that does a good job of getting you off the couch and makes you put some real effort into the game.
Looking for something seasonal to plug into your compute this year? How about a Christmas tree? Well, not a really big tree, but what about a small translucent glass tree that stands about 4 inches tall. The tiny tree glows and cycles through six different neon colors. It works with any kind of computer, PC or Mac that has a USB port. Just plug it in and let the Christmas caroling begin!