Haptic feedback isn’t really anything new in the world of gaming. Ever since the Nintendo 64, we’ve had rumble packs, and products like the KOR-FX Gaming Vest purport to add a new layer of realism to virtual reality. For that reason, the Woojer doesn’t really look all that impressive at first – I mean, it’s just a tiny vibrating box, right? How could it possibly be all that exciting?
Honestly, you’d be surprised.
The 2.5-ounce Woojer can be plugged into any device that outputs audio from a phone to a 3DS. Once it’s plugged in, it can be attached to one’s body through a magnetic clip, at which point it’ll start converting bass signals into vibrations. Only deeper signals, mind you – Woojer’s smart enough to ignore everything else.
Even though Woojer’s a tiny device, it’s able to output impressively strong vibrations. The rumbling from Woojer is something you can feel through your whole body, and it’s different based on what’s happening in-game: the explosion caused by a rocket launcher is noticeably different from the light vibration of a submachine gun, for example. Combined with other feedback, such as vibration from one’s controller, Woojer provides its users with a level of immersion that most people have never experienced before.
Of course, it’s not without its problems. It only functions through a 3.5mm audio connection, which means that any devices that lack one aren’t compatible. What’s more, the price is a bit steep – the developers are asking for $100 per Woojer unit. Still, it’s an impressive example of just what can be accomplished with just a little bit of thought and innovation – and if haptic feedback’s your thing, it’s definitely worth the purchase.
If you want to purchase your own Woojer, you can swing by the official website or save on tax and buy on Amazon. It’s available in a range of different colors.
