January 7, 2009 7:00 PM PST

The Wand: Nyko announces a high-tech Wii remote alternative

by Jeff Bakalar
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(Credit: Nyko)

In an effort to trump the existing Nintendo Wii remote controller, Nyko is introducing what the company is calling the most advanced Wii remote yet.

The Nyko Wand looks a lot like the Wii remote we're all used to, but instead can output commands and even vibration through the controller's port at the bottom of the device. Using what Nyko calls Trans-Port technology, the new interface will allow compatible devices to take advantage of functionality not always available in current Wii remote accessories.

For example, a new pistol grip for The Wand will allow not only full force-feedback, but also a way to use the 1, 2, +, and - buttons without the need to reach around to the top of the remote. Also, the controller's uniquely oversize face buttons should help when using the device with the aid of an accessory.

The Wand will ship to stores this April, however no price has been set.

The following product mentioned is available.

On Sale Now: $29.99
View the latest prices for Nyko Wand (Wii)

Before covering games and gear for CNET Reviews, Jeff Bakalar dabbled in film and video production. An avid writer, reader, and gamer, Jeff is also an obsessive New Jersey Devils hockey fan. Catch him live every day as the co-host of CNET's infamous podcast, The 404.
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by ssjwiggy January 8, 2009 6:44 AM PST
It's alive! IT'S ALIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVE!
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by edgeofbladeLR January 8, 2009 9:03 AM PST
"No price has been set because we haven't been sued yet."
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by Sleepy_Akira January 14, 2009 2:09 PM PST
Great, another ******* American who runs to the word "sue" without knowing anything.<br />Obviously they will have to pay loyalties/price to use the design of the Wiimote and of couse the technology is Nintendo's but other companies are still able to use the design. Have you never seen other controllers made by other companies. Mad Catz is only one of the gaming companies that do this. <br />Idiot.
by drefiasco1 February 18, 2009 12:54 PM PST
i think it was just a joke...no need to call him a *******
by Madmanonfire January 8, 2009 3:20 PM PST
Looks blocky and kinda ugly.
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by castiboy January 8, 2009 4:23 PM PST
pretty ugly indeed... i can understand that they went for a very squary feel but it's just blocky and far from being as nice as their wing...<br />design's really lacking, but oh well, go wonder.
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by mediaman6 January 9, 2009 12:48 AM PST
I guess they went for functionality over looks. I don't find myself looking at the controllers anyway when I'm playing. Maybe that's their thinking.
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by castiboy January 9, 2009 2:34 AM PST
maybe, but i do when considering buying one. aesthetics may not be important while playing, but they're always a buying factor.
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by firefoxluva95 January 9, 2009 5:49 AM PST
It certainly looks different and kind of cool. If it's cheaper than the real wiimote then I might consider it.
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by bowsandarrows January 9, 2009 1:27 PM PST
Finally someone is in it for the looks, It definitely has a better gaming charactoristics to it than the old wii mote (the plain white brick) which didn't contour to our hands when handling. I'm all in just for the Trans-Port technology
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