By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY: Logitech has announced the August 2008 release of three new gaming peripherals for four different gaming devices. Firstly, there is a racing wheel for PlayStation 3; secondly, a keyboard for Nintendo Wii’s internet channel; and thirdly, a pocket case for Nintendo DS Lite and Sony PSP (2000 Series).

The Logitech Driving Force Wireless is a force feedback racing wheel designed for the PlayStation 3. It includes an expandable lap rest, “so you don’t need to mount your wheel to a table,” and 2.4 GHz wireless technology for a “lag-free range of up to 10 metres”.

Logitech explains the concept of Force feedback thus: “Force feedback, unlike vibration feedback or rumble technology, creates directionally precise, tactile feedback that accurately simulates forces experienced in the game. Through the use of advanced software and electronics, force feedback can move a steering wheel or joystick as if the device were subject to real external forces.”

For the Nintendo Wii, Logitech has announced the Logitech Cordless Keyboard for Wii, which is specifically designed for use with chat-oriented games and the Wii internet channel. It features 2.4 GHz wireless technology and specialist keys for use in tandem with Wii software. Additionally, Logitech claim the keyboard will compliment the Wii hardware through applying consistency with Nintendo to the design.

Lastly, Logitech has released two similarly-named cases, one for the Nintendo DS Lite and one for the Sony PSP (2000 Series). Respectively, they are called the Logitech PlayGear Pocket Lite and the Logitech PlayGear Pocket Slim.

The DS Lite case has a polycarbonate construction, described as a “shell of armour,” and the ability to carry up to four games. Additionally, the case can be customised through the use of self-made skins.

For the PSP (2000 Series), the case is made of the same material as its DS cousin and can also be customised. Based on the original PlayGear Pocket, this newly released case is able to fit Sony’s 2200 mAH battery kit.

The Logitech Driving Force Wireless force feedback wheel is RRP $149.95.
The Logitech Cordless Keyboard for Wii is RRP $79.95.
The Logitech PlayGear Pocket Lite (for Nintendo DS) is RRP $24.95.
The Logitech PlayGear Pocket Slim (for PSP 2000 Series) is RRP $29.95.

All new products are expected to be released in August 2008.