The gaming world is no stranger to unique and unconventional controllers, but Dr. Tom Tilley has taken it to a whole new level with his DIY controller for Super Monkey Ball. In a viral internet video, Tilley showcases a physical monkey in a ball that rotates like a trackball to navigate through the in-game world of Super Monkey Ball. This innovative controller design has garnered attention for its creativity and ingenuity.
Inspiration and Design
Tilley drew inspiration for the controller from his experience playing an obscure Japanese arcade game called Armadillo Racing during his time in Thailand. The arcade cabinets for the game featured a trackball that players used to steer their armadillo, which sparked the idea of recreating a similar experience for other games. The basic design of the controller is similar to a soccer-ball controller that Tilley previously built for Katamari Damacy.
The controller consists of an upside-down ball mouse held in place by plastic balls and mounted on a cardboard rack. One of the most remarkable features of the design is Tilley’s 3D-printed model of Super Monkey Ball’s mascot, AiAI, which adds an authentic touch to the gameplay experience. The combination of the physical monkey in a trackball design creates a truly immersive way to play Super Monkey Ball.
Functionality and Future Upgrades
The ball on top of the optical mouse detects movement, but there is some height variation as the ball is rolled, causing intermittent mouse tracking. To address this issue, Tilley added another deodorant roller beneath the ball to ensure consistent tracking. The movement of the soccer ball turns the deodorant ball underneath it, simulating mouse movement over a surface.
In a follow-up post on social media, Tilley mentioned plans for upgrades to the controller. The legs of the monkey are hinged, and mount points have been added at the knees of AiAI. Tilley aims to incorporate a trailing wheel with a crank that will push the legs backward and forward as the ball rolls, creating the illusion of AiAI running inside the ball. These enhancements will further enhance the realism of the gameplay experience.
The DIY controller designed by Dr. Tom Tilley for Super Monkey Ball is a testament to creativity and innovation in the gaming community. By combining elements of real-world objects with gaming technology, Tilley has created a unique and engaging way to play the game. The incorporation of AiAI, the iconic monkey from Super Monkey Ball, adds a fun and whimsical touch to the controller. As Tilley continues to work on improvements and upgrades, the possibilities for enhancing the gaming experience are endless. The gaming world eagerly awaits the evolution of this one-of-a-kind controller.
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