HKS teamed up with InterWorks for a controller for the Sony Playstation 3 and the end result is mighty impressive. Called the Hipermax III, the new controller replaces the analog joysticks with a thumb wheel on the left side and throttle and brake buttons on the right.
To aid steering, the controller has an analog "thumb steering wheel" on the left side, complete with a center stripe. It helps to eliminate the wasteful up down motion of a regular joystick, leaving only the necessary left right motion needed to steer a car in a race game.
On the right side, you'll see the "square" and "x" buttons are now represented by miniature buttons that look like accelerator and brake pedals. These pedals are also full analog so you adjust the sensitivity of your braking and accelerator according to your need in a race. The extent of your input will be displayed via a digital gauge in the middle of the controller.
For now the controller is only available for the PS3 and is priced at US$54.99. More information in the press release below.
Press Release:
Performance Auto Label HKS USA and InterWorks Unlimited Partner to Innovate Precision Racing Controller
City of Industry, Calif.-June 2, 2010-InterWorks Unlimited Inc., the fastest-growing distributor of innovative gaming peripherals, today announced they have entered into an exclusive deal with HKS USA, Inc., the premier manufacturer and supplier of premium automotive performance systems, to co-develop for a line of professional racing video game controllers.
“HKS deploys advance racing techniques through their performance products,” said Michael Kidakarn, executive creative director of InterWorks. “We are sharing these professional racing technologies and precision control processes, such as heel/toe drifting, and integrating into our game controller.”
Only with these advanced racing controllers, gamers can easily execute these real-world racing techniques, gaining the competitive gaming advantage.
“InterWorks passion for innovation aligns with HKS passion for drivingperformance,” said Rick Lafferty, president of HKS USA, Inc. “Their newvideo game controller will take racing games to a new level of challenge andrealism by allowing players to replicate the bets driving techniques used byrace drivers.”
The HKS® Racing Controller for PlayStation®3 computer entertainmentsystem will be shown by appointment only at the InterWorks booth at theupcoming Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles, June 15-17, 2010.
About HKS USA, Inc.
HKS USA, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of premium automotive aftermarket performance systems, parts and accessories. Delivering itsproducts to both the import and domestic car markets, HKS has beenrecognized for its engineering and performance excellence in the automotiveindustry since 1973. Established in 1982, HKS USA, Inc. is a wholly-ownedsubsidiary of HKS Company, Ltd. Japan and distributes its products throughits worldwide dealer network. For more information about HKS USA., visitwww.hksusa.com.
About InterWorks Unlimited
Based in City of Industry, InterWorks Unlimited Inc. distributes a wide rangeof high-quality gaming peripherals and software under several brands andlicenses, including Eagle3 and Photo World. For more information, please visit www.eagle3.com.
Source: Motor World Hype
