CES 2015: 3DRudder Lets You Play Video Games With Your Feet

Over the years there have been plenty of different ways in which tech manufacturers have enabled us to experience our video games. We’ve had peripherals such as light guns which have allowed us to hold plastic weaponry instead of shooting bad guys using the triggers on our controllers, we’ve had motion controls that have seen us control our games with our bodies, and most recently we’ve seen impressive virtual reality technology add a whole new dimension to our gaming experience thanks to the likes of the Oculus Rift and Project Morpheus, two pieces of hardware that have still yet to be released to consumers.

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Now we have the 3DRudder, a controller for your feet that made its debut at CES 2015, towards the tail-end of its Indiegogo campaign. The 3DRudder allows the user to control their movement in games using just their feet, whilst freeing up their hands for additional control with either a keyboard, a joystick or a standard controller. It can also be used in conjunction with a VR headset, with its creators claiming that doing so actually helps reduce the amount of motion sickness some gamers experience when using the Oculus Rift.

The 3DRudder has reportedly been impressing those who have managed to try it out during its small showing at CES 2015, with initial impressions being that it controls much more proficiently than you’d expect. Set up of the controller requires little more than a USB port and the download of a driver, and its limited showing to the press has seen its creators highlighting it by way of a 3D design program. It’s also quick to calibrate, taking only a few seconds to adjust to your movement. 

Oh, and if you were worrying that it would require you to be standing at all times a la the Wii Fit Board, then you’ll be pleased to know that you actually need to remain seated to use the device given its tilting base – you won’t burn off many calories using this thing, but it will certainly add another layer of immersion to your games, especially if you’re combining it with the Rift.

If the 3DRudder reaches its Indiegogo goal of $50,000 (you can get your hands on one for $110 by contributing to its campaign), then you can get your hands on one in May 2015.

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