Playing games on mobile devices is still a frustrating experience. No, it’s not just because mobile games aren’t quite on parity with console games quite just yet, but because the lack of a physical d-pad makes it impossible to play games that require beyond simple touch controls without wanting to punch walls.
60beat has developed a new GamePad that works not by bluetooth, but by plugging the GamePad through an iOS device’s headphone jack, which is pretty cool. Still, I’m curious as to why 60beat’s decided to go with the wired route as opposed to the wireless. Headphone jacks are delicate and I’m sure if someone’s decided to game on a mobile device, they’d want the device on the go. Having something with wires is a bit inconvenient. I guess the cool thing is that the GamePad doesn’t need to be battery powered going this route.
The only issue that 60beat faces now, as with all those who have gone into niche market for developing gamepads for iOS devices, is finding developers who will support their device. As there isn’t a market standard for touch devices yet, whoever can gain the market has yet to be seen. However, if developers are interested in developing an app that’s compatible with 60beat devices, all they have to do is email 60beat for a development kit. The only drawback for a lot of indie developers? 60beat devices aren’t quite compatible with Unity just yet…
Either way, here’s a cool little video that demos the Gamepad:
