Wiimote a Copy of Dreamcast Prototype?

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One of Sega's prototype Dreamcast controllers looks very similar to the Wiimote. So, what were Sega planning back in 1998? And did Nintendo copy their idea?

The mysterious Dreamcast controller prototype discovered by GWN looks similar to the Wiimote, but do they have any connection? Notice the lightgun adapter at the top right which looks very similar to the Wii gun adapter shown at E3!


While looking through some old console prototypes over the weekend, I stumbled across what is described as a prototype controller for the Dreamcast. It looks remarkably similar to the Nintendo Wiimote, with a trigger on the bottom, buttons on top and wireless technology. All that's missing is the Nun-chuk attachment.

A few more Dreamcast controller prototypes.


Were Sega planning to release their own version of the Wiimote way back in 1998 when the Dreamcast launched?

The Dreamcast itself.


After doing a bit of research I was unable to find any further information about this mysterious prototype. Who was it made by? Was it an official Sega controller? Why wasn't it put into production? And perhaps most importantly, who designed it and what was it going to be used for?

The Wiimote.


Perhaps the designers behind the Wiimote were responsible for this design, back in 1998. It seems unlikely, but the two controllers do look similar.

The Wii Lightgun shown at E3 2006. Look familiar? Perhaps.


If you have any further information on this mysterious prototype please contact us and we will update this page.

You can also discuss it on our forums!


Article by Richard Manley.


Jul 17, 2006
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