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XMAS PERIPHERALS: SPECIAL FOCUS EXSPECT EXSPECT is touting products developed across all current formats this Q4, including DSi and PSPgo. Owners will find a selection of cases and accessories packs. For Xbox 360 gamers, the firm is focusing on providing unhindered gaming sessions, through the Xbox 360 Black Play & Charge Battery. This powerpack plugs into the controller and is connected to the console’s USB port, charging the controller as gamers play. This is complemented nicely by the Xbox Gaming Headset, which fits comfortably over the head and allows players to
communicate with their friends over Xbox Live during heated multiplayer sessions. There are controls for both volume and microphone so gamers can define how much they want to contribute to the vocal proceedings. Owners of the new PSPgo have a range of options when it comes to protecting their new handheld. The company has redesigned its familiar Leather Slip Case to fit the device’s form, and is available in several colours such as red, white, grey, blue, pink, purple, grey and black. It’s even available in hemp for the environmentalists among us.
Similary, Exspect’s DSi Leather Play Case offers gamers a unique way to store and carry their new Nintendo device. The smart-looking cover for the handheld opens up to reveal the DSi itself and slots for two game cards, an SD card and a stylus. This is also available in a variety of colours, and the alternative Shell Protection Kit forgoes additional storage for stronger protection of the handheld’s exterior. The DSi Essentials Pack features a more traditional storage case along replacement stylus pens, a wrist strap, game card case and high quality earphones.
Meanwhile, the Media Storage & Transfer Kit makes it easier to transfer music and photos between the DSi and PC thanks to its plugand-play USB SD card reader. The Wii Drop ‘N’ Charge Station allows Wii owners to recharge their controllers without attaching them to connection ports or removing silicone jackets and the Wii MotionPlus add-on. Likewise, the Wii Motion 15-in-1 Accessory Pack features a variety of sportsthemed shells for the Remote, including tennis rackets and golf clubs, which also allow for MotionPlus to stay connected.
EXSPECT: 01782 748 732
Exspect’s range of products offers something for owners of all major consoles
HUBB FORMED this year, Hubb is working hard to establish itself in the peripherals market as a fresh and notable brand. The company already boasts a product range that stretches across all formats, including some nongaming platforms. Despite the effect the economic climate has had on the traditional growth of the games market, Hubb reports that both its sales and its confidence have remained high. The company is planning to expand its business further and strengthen its relationships with retail partners in 2010.
For Christmas, the firm is focusing on its selection of Wii accessories, supporting owners of Nintendo’s bestselling console with everything they need. The Wii Fit Light Up Battery serves as a rechargeable battery pack for the Wii Balance Board. It fits snugly into the battery compartment beneath the board, and is charged with a USB lead. Indicator lights signify when the battery is fully charged or needs to be recharged. For Wii Sports Resort fans, the Wii MotionPlus Sports Pack offers a range of fun Remote shells to transform
your controller into the appropriate equipment. The pack includes two tennis rackets, a golf club and a baseball bat, and all of the shells allow room for the MotionPlus add-on. Similarly, the company’s Wii MotionPlus Steering Wheel has been designed to hold the Wii Remote with or without the MotionPlus addon attached. Obviously built with accessibility in mind, the wheel also features an innovative clip-on Button Bridge that puts the allimportant ‘1’ and ‘2’ buttons within easy reach of even the smallest hands.
The company also caters for multi-format gamers with products such as the Hubb HDMI cable, which delivers 1080p resolution and high quality colour through a high definition TV. It is compatible with all HDMI-equipped games consoles, Blu-ray players and Sky HD and fully supports HDCP for content-protected Blu-ray and Sky HD broadcasts. Hubb has even teamed up with German firm Artwizz to create a selection of iPod and iPhone accessories, all of which are released in fully recycled packaging to appeal to environmentallyconscious consumers.
HUBB: 01642 204 350
Newcomer Hubb’s Christmas line-up includes Wii, BluRay, Sky TV and iPhone accessories