iPhone Gets GameBone Pro Bluetooth Controller

Annoyed by those imprecise virtual on-screen buttons whilst playing iPhone/iPod Touch games? All that could change with the GameBone Pro.

Taking elements from all of the greatest console pads in history (Super Nintendo d-pad, Super Nintendo shoulder buttons and Super Nintendo face buttons), Aussie company 22Moo has created a controller that connects to an iPhone running OS 3.0 via Bluetooth or a dock cable, and even has a microphone and speakers for more immersive gameplay.

Downsides? Well, developers will have to patch in support for the device on their games, so if it doesn’t take off then you are left with a bit of a bone-shaped paperweight.

Also, the controller ships with a horizontal/vertical stand for placing your iPhone, making this the kind of mini-console set up reserved for long and boring train journeys rather than a quick fix on the move.

The matter of price is refreshingly left up to ‘the people’ to decide, with 22Moo accepting suggestions on their site before a September release.

Having to lug another bit of plastic around to get gaming in public is a little bit of a turn-off, but if some of the bigger publishers and high profile games get behind it then the GameBone could be the first serious entry in the world of useful plastic peripherals. Expect to see mini sets of guitars and drums in no time…

Also, you couldn’t call it iBone? Oh. Guess not.

Source: Kotaku

Tags: gamebone pro, iPhone, iphone pad