EfluxMedia

At the Games Convention in Leipzig, Germany, Microsoft Hardware introduced a new gamer’s delight ad the Redmond-based company revived its SideWinder line with its first gaming mouse.

Microsoft is advertising its new device not only as a mouse, but as an individual gaming system. The SideWinder Mouse includes an adjustable weight tray, changeable mice feet with three materials for glide preference, DPI control and new software features.

"We're taking gaming mice to a new level with a mouse created in direct response to gamer feedback from all over the world; it offers superior customization and performance handling," said Bill Jukes, product marketing manager for Microsoft Hardware. "We found that gamers are a lot like performance car enthusiasts. They like to tweak and tune their mouse to get it just right, and today we are giving them the tools to create a personalized experience that lets them focus on what's important: being at the top of their game."

Also, the SideWinder Mouse allows gamers record their own macros and it includes a new Quick Turn feature. This is a performance-enhancing macro that is built right into the software and lets users check their perimeter at any angle from wherever they are in the game with the click of a button.

Also a 2,000-DPI laser engine delivers super-fast response time, and three DPI switches behind the scroll wheel allow gamers to toggle between low-, medium- and high-sensitivity settings, at any time.

The SideWinder integrates a LCD (which is a first for a gaming mouse), thanks to which

gamers can easily keep track of key gaming actions. The unique cable management system offers the feel of a wireless mouse with the connection speed of a wired mouse by holding the extra cable and preventing it from getting caught on other items on the desk.

Also, SideWinder mouse offers a Quick-Launch button that can be used to quickly bring up the Windows Vista Games Explorer.

The SideWinder Mouse features a unique design with key ergonomic elements, such as two vertical side buttons and a wide, detented metal scroll wheel. The wheel design helps gamers feel each movement as they scroll, and the wide metal finish adds elegance and control to the mouse.

This new device will be will be widely available in October 2007 for an estimated retail price of $79.95.

The SideWinder mouse will face strong competition, as Logitech’s G9 will be available in September and it has a recommended price of $99.99.