Sony & Microsoft talk up their controllers in face of the Wii

You'd be hard pushed to find anyone who isn't excited about the new Wii controller, however the same probably can't be said for the other two console competitors. Both Sony and Microsoft, possibly inspired by envy, have started to make noises about their own controllers, namely that the PS3 controller will have a new name (no more Dual Shock) and that the 360 will soon be compatible with the PC.

First up, the flailing Playstation3. 1up is reporting that the new controller will be named Sixaxis. The rather bizarre name hasn't been unveiled by Sony yet, however 1up has discovered a patent that, although states that the name could mean a number of things, has a direct relevance to the Playstation 3. Sony used the phrase to describe their controller a number of times in May 8th 2006:

The controller for PS3 employs breakthrough technology of high-precision, highly sensitive six-axis sensing system that does not require any devices other than the controller itself for seamless interactive operation, thus eliminating additional settings to TVs. With this technology, ways to enjoy PS3 will be further enhanced by accessing PS3 through the network, while retaining the six-axis sensing capability.

Not to be outdone, Microsoft has also made a controller announcement – theirs possibly being most interesting. This December Microsoft will release its wireless controller for PC. Finally there will be a wireless pad that makes console gaming on the PC (like Pro Evo) enjoyable! I think they got the inspiration from the recent 360 laptop mod.

What do you make of all this controller nonsense? Let us know in the forums.