Electric shock game controller has great potential

Multi-player shoot-em-up games will get a little extra kick soon with the launch of a game controller that gives users electric shocks.

The Bioforce controller takes the concept of force-feedback to a new level. It is shaped like a typical handheld game controller, but also has four electrodes attached. These are attached to a user's skin, and deliver a slight electric current when he or she is hit during a game.

Mad Catz, the company behind Bioforce, believes the new device will be particularly suitable for combat games. "There is nothing quite so entertaining as going head to head in a fighting game and actually watching your real-life opponent wince when you land a good in-game punch," said Mad Catz product manager Steven Sandwisch to Space.com.

Mad Catz was quick to offer reassurances that the Bioforce is safe -- insisting that similar technology is used in certain anti-seasickness products. Bioforce contains three 1.5V batteries, which deliver a charge of up to 16 milliamp through the electrodes. This isn't enough to hurt -- but it can cause muscles to twitch.

While players will not be able to actually their opponent, the Bioforce could provide a particularly satisfying way of winning. Apparently, repeated shocks can cause the inflicted player's muscles to go into a spasm, which can be enough to make them drop the controller.

No release date has been set for the Bioforce.

What's going on in games? For all the latest see Gamespot UK.

Have your say instantly, and see what others have said. Click on the TalkBack button and go to the ZDNet news forums.

Let the editors know what you think in the Mailroom. And read other letters.