May 16th, 2002 (12:00am) - --Introducing new Lynx wireless controllers for PlayStation 2 and Xbox--
-- Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSE: MCZ), a
leading manufacturer of video game accessories, today announced the launch
of the Company’s Fall 2002 line of peripherals for PlayStation 2, Xbox,
GameCube and Game Boy Advance.
The Company will unveil 23 new accessories at this year’s E3 show in Los One of the more
notable highlights is the Company’s new line of Lynx wireless controllers
for PlayStation 2 and Xbox. All upcoming products are due to launch in the
U.S. and/or Europe over the next several months.
"In keeping with our goal to create the industry’s highest quality products
at competitive prices, we have developed an exciting new line of fall
accessories. We are particularly looking forward to the release of the Lynx
wireless controllers that we have designed for PlayStation 2 and Xbox. We
expect them to be extremely well received by the market as the installed
base of these new consoles continues to grow," said Darren Richardson,
President and COO of Mad Catz, Inc
Mr. Richardson continued, "Over 145 million Americans (60%) play video and
computer games and they continue to be the fastest growing entertainment
form. This is particularly good news for Mad Catz as it provides us with
additional opportunities to design and develop the creative accessories for
which Mad Catz is famous."
Lynx Wireless Controllers
Based upon the success of the 900MHz wireless controller for PlayStation 2
launched in October 2001, Mad Catz has expanded its wireless line to include
Lynx wireless controllers for Xbox and PlayStation 2 (also compatible with
PlayStation One) to be initially released in the U.S. Like the 900MHz
wireless controller for PlayStation 2, these controllers utilize radio
frequency (RF) technology comparable to high-end cordless phones. The Lynx
wireless controllers do not rely on line-of-sight, so that if the
controllers are pointed away from the console, or if the signal is blocked
by a person walking in front of it, the game will not freeze. This
connectivity is achieved via a low-profile micro antenna which plugs
directly into the appropriate console, enabling 40 feet of unblockable
wireless range. The Lynx wireless controllers require batteries whereas the
900MHz wireless controller for PlayStation 2 uses a recharging cradle.
The Lynx wireless controllers feature fully analog pressure-sensitive action
buttons and D-pad, dual analog joysticks, and rubberized grips to increase
comfort. Programmable macro capabilities for complex moves will be featured
in the Lynx wireless for Xbox. Both Lynx wireless controllers feature two
play modes for total control in any game (analog and digital) and built-in
dual vibration motors for a more pronounced, realistic gaming experience.
"After the successful debut of the 900MHz wireless controller for
PlayStation 2 at last year’s E3 show, we are especially excited to introduce
our next generation of Lynx wireless controllers at this year’s show,"
states Mr. Richardson. "Now Xbox and PlayStation 2 gamers can maximize
playing time without being restricted by short cables. And, since the radio
frequency technology eliminates line of sight issues, the Lynx wireless
controllers provide consistent, continuous play even at a considerable
distance from the console and television."
MicroCON Controllers for All Platforms
At this year’s E3 show, Mad Catz will also introduce its MicroCON
controllers for PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube. The MicroCON controllers
are smaller versions of Mad Catz’ standard controllers, created to
accommodate gamers with smaller hands or to provide greater comfort and
control for any gamer. The MicroCON’s sleek design provides superior
control with rubberized grips to reduce fatigue and improve handling.
Features include dual analog joysticks, fully analog pressure-sensitive
action buttons and D-pad, intense vibration capability, two expansion bays
for memory cards or other game enhancers (for Xbox), and macro
programmability for complex moves (for Xbox and PlayStation 2). For added
comfort and durability, both the MicroCON for PlayStation 2 (also compatible
with PlayStation and PlayStation One) and GameCube have an eight-foot
braided-steel cable and the MicroCON for Xbox features a nine-foot braided
steel cable.
Universal Steering Wheel and Pedals for All Platforms
The Universal MC2 Racing Wheel, also making its debut at E3, works with
PlayStation 2, Xbox, and GameCube consoles, and is the most realistic racing
wheel on the market. The new steering wheel is based on the MC2 award
winning design which offers vibration feedback, and the Mad Catz proprietary
Accudrive system that allows gamers to tune the wheel sensitivity to fit
individual preferences. Offering superior comfort, the Universal MC2 Racing
Wheel also features a rubber-clad wheel, retractable leg supports and pedal,
ten programmable action buttons, and three control modes (steering wheel,
analog and digital).
Other products making their debut include:
For PlayStation 2
Beat Pad - This digital controller for dance and action games features
four-way directional control and 10 high-performance action pads. The Beat
Pad works with all dance games including Konami’s Dance Dance Revolution and
THQ’s Britney Dance Beat. It’s also compatible with PlayStation and
PlayStation One dance games.
Light Blaster - Specially designed to work with all light gun-compatible
games, the Light Blaster features vibration kickback, rapid-fire, automatic
reload capabilities, a memory card expansion bay and an LED-powered light-up
barrel. It also includes a traditional D-pad and reload button.
Dual Force 2 Skin Controller - Now different design skins featuring
lifestyle, sports and artwork can be snapped onto the controller for more
customized game play. Features of the controller include dual analog
joysticks, dual vibration motors, pressure-sensitive analog action buttons
and powerful macro capabilities for programming complex actions for
execution by a single button. With rubberized grips for superior comfort
and handling and an eight-foot extra-long reinforced cable, the Dual Force 2
Skin Controller is also compatible with PlayStation and PlayStation One.
8 MB Memory Expander - By inserting a certified PlayStation 2 8MB memory
card into the Memory Expander, users can access an additional 8MB of memory,
allowing for more game saves.
Controller Extension Cable - Also compatible with PlayStation and
PlayStation One, this seven-foot extension cable features heavy-duty wiring,
braided steel reinforcement and an assortment of colors, to match player’s
controllers.
For Xbox
Light Gun - Specially designed to work with all light gun-compatible games,
the Mad Catz Light Gun features vibration kickback, rapid-fire, automatic
reload capabilities and an LED-powered light-up barrel. It also includes a
traditional D-pad and reload button.
Ethernet Cable - To capitalize on one of the many Xbox features, the
Ethernet Cable is designed to network multiple Xbox consoles together for
head-to-head or team playing. The Ethernet Cable comes in a sleek green
cable casing.
For GameCube
Memory Cube 251 - The 4X Memory Card delivers 16Mb of data storage, allowing
for more special characters, special weapons, game positions, and high
scores to be saved. Although not available in initial shipments, later
shipments will feature game saves.
Memory Cube 1019 - The 16X Memory Card features 64Mb of data storage,
allowing for more special characters, special weapons, custom controller
settings and high scores and levels to be saved. It also features four
different game saves.
5" Color Display - The attachable 5" Color Display features an integrated
sound system and a
high-resolution screen which attaches directly to the GameCube.
Car Adapter - Powers the GameCube from a standard auto power connection with
a convenient 10-foot power cord for backseat gaming.
Controller Extension Cable - Available in many colors, this extension cable
plugs directly into the GameCube console and features heavy-duty wiring,
durable braided construction and a compact spool design giving an extra six
feet of range between the user and the television.
For Game Boy Advance
Flip Light - Great for late night gaming, the flip light automatically
illuminates the screen and provides brighter, more vivid graphics when
flipped up.
Light and Magnifier - Illuminates Game Boy Advance screen and magnifies up
to 1.5X the original screen size.
TV Tuner - By inserting the TV Tuner into the game slot, the Game Boy
Advance can be used for both playing games and watching television.
Soft Case - Available in many colors, the soft case protects the Game Boy
Advance when traveling.
Water Resistant Case - This durable case will protect the Game Boy Advance
against moisture, water and dust. It is also designed with a flexible
transparent front for game-play and a water resistant membrane to resonate
game sounds while inside its protective case.
