CES 2009

Read all 'Mad Catz' posts in CES 2009
January 12, 2009 12:47 PM PST

CES 2009: Gaming wrap-up

by Jeff Bakalar
  • 2 comments

It's no secret that gaming's presence at CES can barely be felt, but we were lucky enough to find some diamonds in the rough, including a few that made us want to phone a lawyer.

While there was no new gaming software to be found, there was a respectable amount of gaming hardware and accessories that stole our attention. Nyko stood out with the company's Wand and Kama Charge Kit and Mad Catz showed off Street Fighter IV-branded FightPads and FightSticks. We were wowed by the Nvidia GeForce 3D Vision, but unfortunately getting it all set up requires a few expensive add-ons.

We were upset to see a lack of products devoted solely to game consoles like we had originally anticipated. So where does this leave gaming's future at CES? Believe it or not, gaming actually had more of a showing at this year than it did in '08, so we'd imagine to see an incremental increase next year. Keep in mind, a lot of third-party hardware and accessories are a result of the Wii, a console that lends itself very well to the production of such items.

Check out these other notable CES gaming stories and slide shows:

January 8, 2009 2:26 PM PST

Mad Catz 'Street Fighter IV' branded FightPads and FightSticks

by Jeff Bakalar
  • Post a comment

(Credit: Mad Catz)

To celebrate the release of Street Fighter IV, Mad Catz has teamed up with Capcom in order to roll out a collection of branded FightPads and FightSticks emblazoned with various Street Fighter characters.

The FightPad and FightStick will be available for both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 platforms in addition to the Tournament Edition FightStick, which features the exact hardware found in arcade cabinets.

Look for these licensed items to go on sale next month and be sure to check out our slide show of the entire line of Street Fighter IV accessories.

January 8, 2009 2:06 PM PST

Saitek brings air combat control to home consoles

by Jeff Bakalar
  • 1 comment
(Credit: Saitek)

Home console flight simulator and air combat games just got a bit easier to control. Just in time for upcoming titles like Tom Clancy's HAWX, Saitek is introducing the Aviator, a flight stick fully tested to work Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 games. That said, Saitek claims the Aviator will also perform well with the Blazing Angels series of games released earlier on.

Available for both platforms, each Aviator will also have the ability to work with PC games as well, doubling the compatibility. The Xbox 360 version (pictured) not only has the familiar silver Xbox guide button, it also has room for a headset connection in order to chat with other players during aerial dogfights. The PlayStation 3 Aviator features a Home button for access to the cross-media-bar while playing.

Both Aviator flight sticks are scheduled to ship this month for $50.

January 8, 2009 11:56 AM PST

Mad Catz delivers 11 buttons of programmable glory with Cyborg X

by Jeff Bakalar
  • Post a comment

(Credit: Mad Catz)

Mad Catz has unveiled the latest in the company's line of PC flight sticks, the Cyborg X. While the new hardware showcases many new features, we're most impressed with the amount of customization it offers.

A total of of 11 buttons can be completely programmed (22 if you're holding down the shift button) allowing for complete control. Compatible with most air-combat and flight-simulation games, the Cyborg X should pacify even the most hardcore of PC gamers. As an added space-saving bonus, the Cyborg X can fold up for easy storage--a feature we've never seen before on a flight stick.

On the ergonomic front, the Cyborg X can adjust its height depending on your preference. No need for extra equipment, all the tools you'll need are embedded in the flight stick's base.

The Cyborg will be available in the coming weeks for $50.

  • prev
  • 1
  • next
advertisement

About CES 2009

Add this feed to your online news reader

CES 2009 topics

CES 2009 Awards


Best of CES and
People's Voice Award

Since 2006, CNET has presented the Best of CES Awards, given to the top product in 10 categories as well as one coveted Best in Show award. See the gadgets that topped our list for this year, and find out the People's Voice winner, decided by more than 10,000 member votes.

Now accepting submissions for the 2010 Best of CES Awards.


About CES

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the world's largest consumer electronics trade show. CES 2009 is scheduled for January 8 through 11 in Las Vegas, and it will feature thousands of exhibitors showcasing their latest tech products. CNET's team of reporters and reviewers will be at the show, covering technology's heavy hitters and previewing thousands of products before they are released to the public.

Each year, CNET, in partnership with the Consumer Electronics Association, produces the Best of CES awards at the International Consumer Electronics Show. The CNET editorial team recognizes the best new products at the show with awards in 10 categories, an overall Best of Show award, and the People's Voice award, which is selected by CNET's online audience.

Most Discussed