Logitech Showcases Newest PlayStation Peripherals at E3

May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At the Electronic Entertainment Expo today, Logitech will show its new product line for the PlayStation, PS one game console and the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system. Scheduled for release later this year, the Logitech USB Headset and the Logitech NetPlay Controller will support online games for PlayStation 2, while the Logitech Cordless Controller will help PlayStation, PS one and PlayStation 2 fans "keep their wires from getting crossed." "Developers for PlayStation continue to stock the system with fun and innovative games, and our goal is to complement this richness of choices with the richest controller experiences possible," said Ted Hoff, vice president and general manager of Logitech's Interactive Entertainment Division. "Working closely with Sony Computer Entertainment allows us to develop even more innovative, easy-to-use peripherals for PlayStation fans, complementing the system's power and flexibility and the quality of its games."

Logitech's newest PlayStation peripherals include:

Logitech USB Headset
The Logitech USB Headset for PlayStation 2, designed to support voice command recognition, voice over IP, and voice recording, brings a new dimension of interaction to the gamer. Shipping with Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc's much anticipated team-based online game, "SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs," the Logitech headset is ideal for online game play. Now, gamers will be able to bark orders, whisper maneuvers to their team and totally engage in the on-screen action.

Features for Logitech's USB Headset include:

• Voice-recognition quality microphone
• Mono headphone
• 10 foot cable
• Comfortable and attractive design

Logitech recently released a free audio software developer's kit (SDK) for PlayStation 2. It is available directly from Logitech and from the PlayStation 2 Developer Network website.

With the SDK, developers can record audio from the headset microphone (input), and play data back through the headset (output). It also provides a very simple programming interface that helps overcome the complexities of USB device enumeration, descriptor parsing and streaming USB audio data. When supplemented with other third-party tools, the SDK can also be instrumental in providing such features as command recognition and voice-over-IP communication.

Logitech NetPlay Controller
With the Logitech NetPlay Controller, designed specifically for use with online games for PlayStation 2, players can type messages without having to put down the controller or install a separate keyboard. This unique controller/keyboard combination is an all-in-one integrated device that sits comfortably in the lap and puts complete game control at the fingertips at all times.

With comfort and versatility in mind, the USB keyboard detaches for standalone use. NetPlay Controller also features:

• Dual analog sticks
• 8-way pressure-sensitive D-pad
• Pressure-sensitive action buttons
• Four shoulder buttons
• Dual vibration feedback
• A shape designed to rest comfortably on player's lap or flat on a floor or table
• Compatibility with Square's "Final Fantasy XI" as well as other games supporting USB keyboards

Logitech Cordless Controller
Announced earlier this year, the Logitech Cordless Controller offers full PlayStation 2 controller functionality, while adding extended control range and more freedom for players who really "get into the game." Created for optimal comfort and precision gameplay, the Cordless Controller offers the following features:

• Powerful 2.4 GHz Cordless technology for a flawless response rate
• Dual analog sticks
• Dual vibration feedback
• Precise, accurate control
• Control range of more than 20 feet
• More than 50 hours of battery life
• Will retail at $59.95 (US).

Still A Driving Force
Logitech Driving Force, released in the Fall of 2001, is Logitech's current force feedback wheel for PlayStation 2. At Logitech's E3 tradeshow booth (Booth 1400 - South Hall), gamers will get to experience the hottest pre-release racing titles, a few of which will only be on display at Logitech's booth and have never been seen before by the general public.

Driving Force, which gives gamers a feature-rich wheel with premium force feedback, takes the driving experience to a heightened level of realism in driving games that support force feedback.

A force feedback SDK is currently available from Logitech for game developers, and developers are still creating games with great support for the product. More than 20 games currently support Driving Force, with many more in development.

For more information about Logitech and its products, visit the company's website at http://www.logitech.com/.

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Website: http://www.logitech.com/