Realism is something that all game programmers aim to inject in their creations, and you can see evidence of that based on the visual progress we have experienced over the years, from simple 2D graphics to complex ones with Mode 7 rendering to provide a pseudo 3D environment. Over time, 3D technology has pushed more and more polygons out with each generation of graphics cards and consoles, leading to high definition gaming that we have today. Quietly in the background though, other forms of technology ups the ante in the realism department by offering features such as rumble technology. This has spawned what we know as force feedback today, and most of us have had experience force feedback in different games that bring a whole new level of realism in gameplay, especially driving games. The ForceWear Vest from TN Games is yet another gaming peripheral that takes advantage of force feedback technology, except you wear it like a normal vest.

How does the ForceWear Vest work? For starters, it is capable of giving the gamer physical feedback which is transmitted from the virtual world, thanks to the presence of eight force feedback units which are located in strategic places. When used simultaneously, the ForceWear Vest can generate up to 10 pounds of pressure in various locations. Ultimately, the decision still lies in the hands of game programmers as they have to learn how to integrate tactile feedback into their current project.

Unless I am darn good at games like Wii Boxing, I wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end when my avatar is punished virtually with me taking in each blow like a man. What about first person shooters when your character is fragged? Thankfully they haven’t come up with a force feedback helmet as of today…

Product Page

You can leave a comment, or trackback from your own site. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Add to Del.icio.us