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MCV takes a look at the best accessories heading to UK retail. This week, we investigate Nvidia’s living room debut and hook up with GameCube controllers on Wii U and PC
Nvidia Shield
Nvidia’s Android gaming platform is coming to the living room in the form of the Nvidia Shield.
The Shield runs the Android TV operating system, meaning that it can connect to Android mobile devices and use apps that run on the platform, such as Google Play, Pandora and YouTube.
Google’s voice search service is also included, allowing users
to search for films and TV shows by speaking. Consumers can additionally use the Shield to ‘Cast’ content to a connected TV, in a similar manner to Google’s Chromecast dongle.
The box is powered by Nvidia’s Tegra X1 processor, which runs on the Maxwell architecture, reaching up to 1 teraflops of processing performance, bolstered by 3GB of RAM.
16GB of onboard storage, which can be increased via MicroSD cards of up to 128GB, and 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity are also among the machine’s specs.
Streaming is a core part of the Shield; Nvidia claims the machine is the first streaming device built with native 4K resolution support in mind, allowing for video streaming of up to 60 frames per second.
Shield will launch with more than 200 titles that support the platform, including more than 50 Android games.
Additional titles can be accessed via Nvidia’s Grid instant gaming service, which allows players to instantly stream games, including Metro: Last Light Redux, Saints Row IV, Dying Light and the upcoming Batman: Arkham Knight. These games will run at up to 60 frames per second, at a resolution of 1080p.
The Shield will come bundled with Nvidia’s Wi-Fi direct controller, which features twin analog sticks, a D-pad, face buttons and triggers, alongside media and Android controls.
RRP: $199 (130)
Release Date: Q2 2015
Distributor: Nvidia
Contact: nvidia.co.uk
GameCube Controller Adapter
For Wii U and PC owners wanting to recreate the experience of playing using a GameCube controller, accessories firm Mayflash offers its GameCube Controller Adapter.
The simple box allows players to connect up to four wired or wireless GameCube controllers via USB to either platform.
However, the box isn’t limited to just four controllers – with two GameCube Controller Adapters, players can use up to eight GameCube controllers at the same time.
The adaptor can be switched between Wii U and PC compatibility using a switch on the side of the peripheral.
Wii U players can use the box to connect GameCube controllers for games such as Super Smash Bros for Wii U, while PC owners can use it with compatible games.
The GameCube adaptor supports the controllers’ built-in vibration feedback, free of delays. This can be enabled by plugging the two USB ports of the adapter into two USB connector ports on a Wii U or PC.
This device is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 and Mac OS while using the PC mode.
RRP: $19.99 (13)
Release Date: Out Now
Distributor: Mayflash
Contact: sales@mayflash.com
