During the Animation-Comic-Game exhibition currently taking place at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the G-Mate MAG Gun wireless controller has been spotted in action, and it’s looking pretty impressive. The MAG will replace the standard console controller or the keyboard and mouse for any FPS title and give gamers something gun shaped to brandish against their online foes.

Despite using my most advanced Google-fu techniques, I could only uncover this image (below) showing off a scuffed prototype. It seems to measure about 75 cm long by 45 cm tall.

It looks like the Chinese gaming market will be getting the first taste of the device. The MAG’s product page doesn’t even feature an official English translation yet, but the Google translated version is good for some laughs if nothing else.

Marvel, as there is “No need to install the LED bar display next to the sink.” Ponder “16 self-definition of the direction button joystick controller seeks to add direction to meet the operational requirements of any game.” What I think they are trying to say, is that there are no mounted motion capture cameras required, and the MAG gun features all 16 buttons that you’d expect to find on a standard console controller.

All of the expected buttons are represented, except for the right analog stick which is typically reserved for panning and tilting the camera (aiming in other words) – a function obviously taken over by moving the MAG around. The device is apparently compatible with many operating systems, although specifics aren’t disclosed – Windows 2000 upwards, Linux and Mac.

In older coverage of the MAG gun, the word ‘magnetic’ is thrown about a bit, leading me to believe that the device detects movement through some sort of accelerometer and gyroscope combination. As a result, it can be used with any TV set or monitor.

To configure the MAG is quite a simple process. Sensitivity can be adjusted via a knob on the top of the gun. The MAG is then pointed at the center of the screen, a ‘center’ button is pushed, and gamers are ready to transform into unstoppable eagle-eyed warriors.

Since it does not rely on any specific platform hardware, the MAG will be usable with any FPS game. The video below shows the MAG being used to complete the Call of duty: Modern Warfare 2 training level.

Below is a more in-depth video preview of the device – the guy punting the MAG in the official demo video claims that it is a well balanced and easy to use device.

So, we know it exists, but will it be making its way to ‘Western’ markets? The US FCC (Federal Communications Commission) has recently approved the wireless elements of the device for consumers, so that’s a good sign. Now it just has to be checked for lead-based paint, and it should be good to go.

Back in April the device was pegged at US$73 in a Crunchgear.com article – that’s ±R537. So many months down the line, the price is as good as unknown. Let’s hope it hovers around that R500 mark.

The MAG looks like a lot of fun to use – I won’t hypothesize about how it may improve console FPS gaming for fear of raising the ire of console gamers who remain committed to their standard controllers. Personally, I don’t think I’ll be replacing my keyboard and mouse combo with a MAG just yet, but it could be good for a change of pace.

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