facebook rss twitter

Review: PlayStation Move

by Steven Williamson on 27 September 2010, 13:23

Tags: Sony Computers Entertainment Europe (NYSE:SNE), PS3

Quick Link: HEXUS.net/qaz7p

Add to My Vault: x

How does it look?

The look
The Move controller weighs 145g, about the same weight as a standard remote control, and it measures 200mm × 46mm (height × diameter.) With hand laid flat that measures about the same size as from the base of your palm to the tips of your fingers (adult male hand). It sports an attractive, wand-shaped/ microphone design that curves in slightly at the sides and fits into your palm very snugly. It looks great and feels very comfortable to hold, more so than the rectangular Wii-Mote. On the end of the Move is a white, translucent ball that glows different colours during games, or to indicate when it need recharging.

On the front, you’ll find the four main control buttons, 'Square,' 'Circle,' 'Triangle' and ‘X’ arranged in an unfamiliar square shape rather than the traditional diamond shape that you find on the controllers. In the centre of the square is a fairly large, thumb-sized “Move” button which is generally used in the same way that an “Enter” or “Ok” button would be used. Below that, in the middle of the controller, is the PS button which brings up the XMB whenever you press it. On the left and right sides of the controller you'll find the Start and Select buttons, while on the back there’s a trigger where your index rests. The base hosts a USB connection, a couple of holes where you can thread the wrist strap through, and a mysterious extension connector that will be used for a gadget that Sony has yet to announce.



If you're a long term user of other PlayStation controllers, the square layout of the command buttons takes a little getting used to but all buttons on Move can be reached and pressed with little movement from your hand and fingers. It does feel really nice to hold and comfortable to use thanks to the smooth contours and ergonomic design. So far so good then. Move is an impressive looking piece of kit and it's clear that careful attention was paid to the layout of keys and controller design to ensure it feels natural to hold and easy to use. Right, let’s turn it on.

Continued overleaf...