PlayStation Move

Lore & Background

The PlayStation Move motion controller features an orb at the head that can glow in any of a full range of colors using RGB LEDs. The system dynamically selects an orb color distinguishable from the scene, and the colored light serves as an active marker tracked by the camera. The uniform spherical shape and known size allow the system to determine the controller's distance from the camera through the light's image size, enabling three-dimensional position tracking with high precision and minimal latency. Inside the controller are a three-axis linear accelerometer, a three-axis angular rate sensor, a magnetometer for calibrating orientation against Earth's magnetic field, and a temperature sensor to adjust inertial readings.

The inertial sensors can be used for dead reckoning when camera tracking is insufficient, such as when the controller is behind the player's back. The controller face includes a large oblong primary button (Move), small action buttons (Triangle, Circle, Cross, Square), a PS button, Select and Start buttons, and an analog trigger on the underside. It features vibration-based haptic technology and the orb light can provide visual feedback such as muzzle flash or paint effects. Up to four motion controllers can be tracked at once on the PlayStation 3.

Navigation controller

A revised model with a microUSB terminal is not backwards-compatible with PS3. The PlayStation Move navigation controller is a one-handed supplementary controller designed for use with the motion controller, replicating the left side of a standard PS3 gamepad with an analog stick, D-pad, L1 button, L2 analog trigger, Cross and Circle buttons, and a PS button. It lacks motion-sensing technology; dual-wield independent two-handed motion control is implemented with another Move controller.

Bundle packages

A Sixaxis or DualShock 3 can replace the navigation controller. Accessories include a charging station, a shooting attachment adapting the motion controller into a handgun form, a Sharp Shooter attachment adapting both controllers into an assault rifle form with adjustable stock and additional buttons, and a Racing Wheel that simulates driving with vibration feedback, paddle shifters, and twist throttle control. The Racing Wheel can be used in open or closed mode and is recognized as a standard DualShock 3 controller for games not designed for Move. Bundle packages included software/camera bundles, console bundles, and bundles with select games, often including a demo disc or starter disc.

Reader's Guide

The PlayStation Move was generally well received by critics but did not quite meet Sony's goals for integration into the market. Its design drew conceptual parallels to the Wii Remote, yet it offered distinct technical approaches such as the colored orb for precise three-dimensional tracking and a combination of inertial sensors for rotation and motion detection. The system's ability to dynamically select orb colors based on the environment helped maintain tracking accuracy. The Move's compatibility expanded beyond the PlayStation 3 to include the PlayStation 4, PlayStation VR, and PlayStation 5, though a revised model with microUSB lost backwards compatibility with the PS3.

The navigation controller and various accessories like the Sharp Shooter and Racing Wheel extended its functionality for specific game genres. Despite critical approval, the Move did not achieve the market penetration Sony had anticipated, remaining a niche but technically notable addition to the PlayStation ecosystem. Its legacy includes influencing later motion control implementations and serving as a foundation for PlayStation VR tracking.