Introduced to the development community at CGDC in May and code named "Tilt", Microsoft's upcoming free-motion PC game controller looks to bring a new level of movement to fast action real-time 3D outdoor games. Or perhaps will be the cause of numerous Internet hissy fits from tiltless multiplayer game participants. In any case, grab it with both hands and don't let go. Um.. the Tilt that is, you can grab that other thing on your own time thank you very much!

Installing and using the SideWinder Freestyle Pro was a cinch due to Microsoft's Game Controller Software v 3.0 with the Sidewinder profile editor that allows for full customization.

The two-handed design takes a bit of getting used to. No diddling room here. In fact, the motion-sensing gizmos came straight out of car airbag technology (see, not everything comes from the space program) so strap in and fly! Just keep in mind that casual gestures can send you racing into the next bonus round or slamming into a wall. The motion input disable button comes in handy for those must scratch moments or for games that really don't adapt well to 'Tilt'. Those of you familiar with Microsoft's SideWinder pad's will recognize the distinctive look that has also been given to the Tilt. Well it's not the same but it's close. You'll need bigger hands but the rest of it is the same, the Dpad and the fire buttons. But it does have a throttle wheel, which seems like a logical addition. (NOTE: Hey Microsoft guys, how about some kind of centering mark so we don't have to neutral blind???)

There really is something interesting going on here. After growing accustomed to the "freedom" of flying in Barrage with these controls, it was a quick leap to performing evasive maneuvers that I can't even describe. A flick of the wrist with a quick tilt back and I was out of harms way, perfectly poised to batten Sharky's hatches.