The Console Wars has uncovered an interesting research project Microsoft were working on back in 2002. The "XWand" is a wireless remote control sporting an accelerometer, magnetometer and gyroscope that lets users control various devices by gesturing at them; for instance in a video of the wand in action, a researcher turns on Windows Media Player by pointing the wand at his monitor, then adjusts the volume by twisting his hand left and right.
Though it wasn't specifically designed for games, the XWand is interesting considering how similar it is to Nintendo's "Revolutionary" new controller:
The XWand is a novel wireless sensor package that enables styles of natural interaction with intelligent environments. For example, a user may point the wand at a device and control it using simple gestures. The XWand system leverages the intelligence of the ubiquitous computing environment to best determine the user's intention.
The Burning Crusade, World Of Warcrafts newest expansion, has been launched as Blizzcon kicks off by revealing the new Horde race, Blood elves. The entire race, once known as the high elves, was nearly wiped out when their homeland was crushed by the undead. In gameplay, all blood elves have been given a racial ability to suck magical energy from magic using creatures. A second racial ability helps you channel the energy itself "Arcane Torrent", this ability is stackable.
The level cap has been increased to 70 with new starting zones in Qual'Thalas and an entire new continent named Outland, reachable through the dark portal. What seemed to strike the most interest amongst fans though is the prospect of flying mounts, Which I would imagine would make chasing down an enemy in PVP much more interesting.
For those of you who are crafters, Jewelcrafting will now be added, as well as socketed items, allowing the ability to customizeyour items. With Hundreds of new quests and items as well as epic world bosses this expansion will definitely keep you busy.
Although the horde race has been revealed, no words on the new alliance race has been said, though many speculations have been mentioned, perhaps even a Murlock race?.
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