Thrustmaster: RunNDrive 3 in 1 game pad for UK’s PS3s

Run'NDrive screenshot - Image 1It may look like something for the GameCube, but according to manufacturer Thrustmaster, its new RunÂ’NÂ’Drive 3 in 1 game pad is definitely making it to the U.K.’s PlayStation 3s (PS3) and PCs. This game pad is built specially for FPS, flight-simulator, and racing games (hence the 3-in-1 clause) thanks to two functions: the Optical Wheel and the mapping feature.

The Optical Wheel – that black dial wrapped around the directional buttons – is intended to help gamers by providing them with more precise movement control. We’re thinking smoother turns and better snipe control, especially since the rig looks like either a scope dial (for the FPS fans), or a miniature steering wheel (the racing fans).

The mapping feature allows players to configure the pad’s controls according to their specific tastes, and is loaded in the RunÂ’NÂ’Drive’s internal memory. Practical application-wise, this means that players who move from one friend’s pad to another can carry this controller, and not have to worry about resetting their button configurations every time they plug it in. And for the PS3 fans asking: No, the RunÂ’NÂ’Drive does not support motion sensing.

The Run‘NÂ’Drive 3 in 1 and Run‘NÂ’Drive 3 in 1 Rumble Force (PC only) will cost £ 19.99 (US$ 39) and £ 22.99 (US$ 58) respectively (including VAT), and will launch this March 23 at most retailers – just in time for the PS3’s Europe launch.

Run'NDrive screenshot - Image 1It may look like something for the GameCube, but according to manufacturer Thrustmaster, its new RunÂ’NÂ’Drive 3 in 1 game pad is definitely making it to the U.K.’s PlayStation 3s (PS3) and PCs. This game pad is built specially for FPS, flight-simulator, and racing games (hence the 3-in-1 clause) thanks to two functions: the Optical Wheel and the mapping feature.

The Optical Wheel – that black dial wrapped around the directional buttons – is intended to help gamers by providing them with more precise movement control. We’re thinking smoother turns and better snipe control, especially since the rig looks like either a scope dial (for the FPS fans), or a miniature steering wheel (the racing fans).

The mapping feature allows players to configure the pad’s controls according to their specific tastes, and is loaded in the RunÂ’NÂ’Drive’s internal memory. Practical application-wise, this means that players who move from one friend’s pad to another can carry this controller, and not have to worry about resetting their button configurations every time they plug it in. And for the PS3 fans asking: No, the RunÂ’NÂ’Drive does not support motion sensing.

The Run‘NÂ’Drive 3 in 1 and Run‘NÂ’Drive 3 in 1 Rumble Force (PC only) will cost £ 19.99 (US$ 39) and £ 22.99 (US$ 58) respectively (including VAT), and will launch this March 23 at most retailers – just in time for the PS3’s Europe launch.

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