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Video Games Get Physical
Using Entertainment Technology to Get Fit
By Teri Brown
Unlike most other gaming units, Wii has motion-sensitive controllers. So instead of pushing a button to swing a tennis racket, the player actually moves the controller. This control scheme has unlimited potential – from pitching a baseball to swinging a golf club to tossing a football. As a result, players actually have to get up off the couch to get into the game.
Nintendo's Wii isn't the only game to capitalize on this new trend of physically active video gaming. XaviX has created a line of interactive sport applications that allow kids to enjoy the real-life action of their favorite sports by using controllers shaped like actual sporting equipment. Kids can play baseball, golf or a round of bowling without even leaving the house. Other companies such as Digital Praise have added a new twist to dance arcade games by using Christian music. The company even includes a Veggie Tales version for the younger set.
Peter Fokos, creative director for Digital Praise, believes that the new trend toward interactive games is something the customers are demanding. "Nintendo seems to have picked up on that with the Wii," he says. "As businesses, they should be asking their customers what they want. If they hear that people want more active games, then they would be smart to listen and respond."