From GayGamer: Sony Building 'Break-Apart' PS3 Controller

Earlier today we discussed the frenzy with which Sony and Microsoft seem to be trying to catch up to the Wii, a scenario that seems at first blush to be totally backward in terms of technology. But it's a good reminder for us tech folk that "bigger, better, faster" isn't always the point.

I remember trying to describe the Wiimote/Nunchuck combo to an uninitiated gamer some time back, and I described it as "basically a regular controller that's broken in two pieces, such that you hold the stick in one hand and the face buttons in the other." I thought it was a pretty simple explanation of what might otherwise be a difficult concept to describe.

Apparently Sony was eavesdropping on me, because they've gone and developed a "break apart" controller that functions as a traditional gamepad while also being able to split itself in two, a-la Wiimote and Nunchuck. Naturally, the device features motion sensing abilities as well.

Sony may or may not make an official announcement sometime soon, but GamesIndustry.biz claims that "working units have already been supplied to certain developer partners."

From motion to rumble and back again? Did 2007 just loop, or am I having a mild stroke? What's with Sony and Microsoft having such blatant Wii envy? Can the gaming market really support three very similar Wii-type innovations? Talk to me.

Sony working on 'break apart' motion PS3 pad [GamesIndustry.biz]