One of the most innovative and unusual ways to play the popular game Super Monkey Ball has recently surfaced on the internet. Dr. Tom Tilley has taken gaming to a whole new level by designing a DIY controller that involves a physical monkey inside a ball that rotates like a trackball to control the in-game simian. This unique controller has caught the attention of many gamers and has sparked curiosity about its design and functionality.
Dr. Tilley shared the inspiration behind the creation of this remarkable controller. During his time living in Thailand, he became fascinated with an obscure Japanese arcade game called Armadillo Racing from 1992. The game featured a trackball controller used to steer an armadillo, which inspired him to recreate a similar experience. This led him to experiment with different games like Katamari Damacy and Super Monkey Ball, which felt incredibly intuitive with his DIY controller setup.
The controller consists of a physical monkey enclosed in a ball that rotates like a trackball to control the in-game character. The basic design of the controller is similar to a soccer-ball controller that Dr. Tilley previously built for use with Katamari Damacy. The sensor mechanism involves an upside-down ball mouse held in place by plastic balls and mounted on a cardboard rack. One of the standout features of the design is the 3D-printed model of Super Monkey Ball’s mascot AiAI, which adds a visually appealing element to the controller.
Dr. Tilley revealed that he has some upgrades planned for the controller, including hinged legs and mount points for AiAI’s knees. He also mentioned adding a trailing wheel with a crank to simulate the motion of AiAI running inside the ball as it rolls. These enhancements aim to improve the overall gameplay experience and add a touch of realism to the controller setup. Gamers are eagerly awaiting to see these additions in action.
Dr. Tom Tilley’s DIY Monkey Ball controller represents a true innovation in the world of gaming accessories. The creative design, inspired by his experiences in Thailand and passion for arcade games, has captured the attention of gamers worldwide. The unique approach to playing Super Monkey Ball with a physical trackball controller showcases the endless possibilities for customization and creativity in the gaming community. As Dr. Tilley continues to refine and enhance his controller, we look forward to seeing how this inventive way of playing evolves in the future.
Leave a Reply