FutureWire - futurism and emerging technology

Monday, January 10, 2005

Will "Exertainment" be the Hot New Game Trend?

A niche gaming market making its presence felt at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas is "exergaming" or "exertainment" --essentially video games that require physicial exertion to play.



Games that simulate dancing or downhill skiing are being marketed for Sony Playstation and other game systems. Their manufacturers are not only stressing their entertainment value, but their ability to get kids off the couch and, hopefully, get fit. Games like this will surely gain more attention as concern over childhood obesity grows.

Many of these games, however, are not cheap. Kilowatt SPORT, a racing simulator that uses a device similar to an elliptical exercise machine, retails for $800.

Source: AP