In the golden age of video gaming, the industry was a wild west of innovation and creativity. As consoles evolved, so too did the accessories that accompanied them. Some of these peripherals were groundbreaking, others were downright bizarre, but all of them left a lasting impression on gamers of yesteryears. This article will dive into the retro abyss, exploring 18 odd but amazing video game accessories from the past. Each section will delve into a unique accessory, detailing its features, history, and impact on the gaming world. So, sit back and let's embark on a nostalgic journey to the past.
The Power Glove
The Power Glove, released in 1989 for the NES, was an ambitious attempt at motion-controlled gaming. It was a wearable controller that promised to let players control games with hand gestures. Despite its futuristic design, the Power Glove was a commercial failure due to its high price and inaccurate controls. Yet, it remains a cult classic, symbolizing the industry's early attempts at innovation.
R.O.B. the Robot
Nintendo's Robotic Operating Buddy (R.O.B.) was a companion robot for the NES. R.O.B. could interact with certain games, adding a unique level of immersion. However, its slow response time and limited game compatibility made R.O.B. more of a novelty than a game-changing accessory.
Sega Activator
The Sega Activator was an infrared ring controller designed for the Sega Genesis. It was intended to translate the player's body movements into in-game actions. However, its poor responsiveness and high price tag led to its commercial failure.
Atari Mindlink
Atari Mindlink was a headband controller that claimed to read players' brainwaves to control games. However, it actually read the muscle movements in the player's forehead. The Mindlink never made it to market, but its ambitious concept was a testament to Atari's innovative spirit.
Nintendo Zapper
The Nintendo Zapper was a light gun accessory for the NES. It was used in games like Duck Hunt, where players would aim the Zapper at the screen to shoot ducks. Despite its simplicity, the Zapper was incredibly popular and is fondly remembered by retro gamers.
Sega Menacer
The Sega Menacer was Sega's answer to the Nintendo Zapper. It was a wireless light gun that came with a pair of 3D glasses. Despite its advanced features, the Menacer suffered from a lack of compatible games and was quickly forgotten.
Super Scope
The Super Scope was a bazooka-style light gun for the Super Nintendo. It was a successor to the Zapper and offered more advanced features. However, like the Menacer, the Super Scope suffered from a lack of compatible games.
Konami LaserScope
The Konami LaserScope was a head-mounted light gun for the NES. It was voice-activated, with players shouting "fire" to shoot. Despite its unique design, the LaserScope was criticized for its poor accuracy and loud voice commands.
NES Advantage
The NES Advantage was an arcade-style joystick for the NES. It offered turbo buttons and a slow-motion feature, making it popular among hardcore gamers. Despite its bulkiness, the Advantage is remembered for its quality build and enhanced controls.
Sega Nomad
The Sega Nomad was a portable version of the Sega Genesis. It allowed players to take their Genesis games on the go. Despite its innovative design, the Nomad was criticized for its poor battery life and high price.
Game Boy Camera and Printer
The Game Boy Camera and Printer were unique accessories for the Game Boy. They allowed players to take photos and print them out as stickers. Despite their limited functionality, these accessories are remembered for their novelty and fun factor.
PlayStation Multitap
The PlayStation Multitap was a peripheral that allowed up to four players to play on the same console. It was a must-have accessory for party games and is remembered for its contribution to social gaming.
Dreamcast VMU
The Dreamcast VMU (Visual Memory Unit) was a memory card with a built-in LCD screen. It could display game information and even play mini-games. Despite the Dreamcast's short lifespan, the VMU is fondly remembered for its innovative features.
Nintendo 64 Rumble Pak
The Nintendo 64 Rumble Pak was a force feedback device that shook the controller during certain in-game events. It added a new layer of immersion to games and set the standard for future controllers.
Xbox Duke Controller
The Xbox Duke Controller was the original controller for the Xbox. Its large size and unique button layout made it divisive among gamers. Despite its criticisms, the Duke is remembered for its contribution to the Xbox's early success.
NES Four Score
The NES Four Score was a peripheral that allowed up to four players to play on the NES. It was a precursor to the PlayStation Multitap and is remembered for its contribution to multiplayer gaming.
Steel Battalion Controller
The Steel Battalion Controller was a massive controller for the Xbox game Steel Battalion. It featured two joysticks, a pedal set, and over 40 buttons. Despite its high price, the controller is remembered for its immersive gameplay experience.
These 18 accessories represent the creativity and innovation of the gaming industry. While some were commercial failures, they all contributed to the evolution of video games in their own unique ways. They remind us of a time when the industry was less predictable, a time when anything seemed possible. As we look back at these odd but amazing accessories, we can't help but wonder what the future of gaming holds.
