HCI Developments

Since the first console, HCI has developed massively. The biggest thing that has developed is graphics. They used to be really low bit graphics, which were about 8 bit. Now they are extreme HD graphics and work out at 1080p sometimes even higher. Interface devices have improved over the years, the different interface devices consist of: Paddles, Joysticks, Keyboards, Joy pads, Mice, Wheels, Pedals and Eye Toys. All of these have improved massively in time and quite a few of them are no longer around or no longer used. 

When controllers were first released they were up, down, left, right keys with 'A' and 'B' buttons. That is all that was on the controllers, because that is all of the buttons they needed to play the games which were for those consoles with those controllers. Now the consoles are higher graphics the consoles and game companies have brought out more life like games and because the games are so complex and graphical the controllers need to be complex and have more buttons etc on to make sure all the actions on the game can be completed. The controllers now have something called six axis features, which means that the control runs off six axis. The controllers for consoles like the PlayStation's and Xbox's are like the normal controllers which are held in both hands but the new controllers for example the Wii controller works using bluetooth and infrared and connects using a sensor bar which is usually sitting on the top of the TV. This is a very easy piece of technology to use, but difficult to make. The controls don't have to plug in which makes it easier for more people to play because they can connect via the wireless connection. Most of the new consoles have controllers which also connect via bluetooth, this is easier and seen as convenient because the controllers can just be picked up and switched on and it can start to be used which compared to the old controllers, which had to be plugged in and wired up, is easier.

The best console was the Nintendo Wii because it was seen to be environmentally friendly and people friendly because people can use them to keep fit as well as have fun, which is good for the public and to beat and battle public healthy eating etc. This was released about 5-6 years ago and are still growing strong. They brought out a balance board called the Wii Fit board which people can use to weigh themselves and then do some exercise over a couple of weeks and then weigh themselves again to see if they have lost weight and you can do it all in your own home in case you feel uncomfortable going out somewhere to do it. They also released one like the Wii but for PlayStation which was called the PlayStation Move, which is exactly the same as the Wii but by a different company.

When consoles are made, controllers need to be made to ensure the console can be played to it's full capacity and used correctly. If the controllers don't suit the console the gamer will not be able to play the game which could result in lots of refunds and customer disappointment. The features and functions of controllers will continue to improve and develop and one day no controller will probably be needed.