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Sony Dubs Rumble A “Last-Gen” Feature

One of the biggest controversies over the PS3's Sixaxis controller is the lack of rumble. Some really liked the feature, while others never really considered it a must-have option (probably because it didn't always enhance the gaming experience). In the past, Sony has outlined various reasons for eliminating the rumble for this new generation, including a three-times-longer batter time for the controller. But recently, when Sony president of worldwide studios Phil Harrison spoke to GameDaily BIZ , he provided a firmer response:

"I believe that the Sixaxis controller offers game designers and developers far more opportunity for future innovation than rumble ever did," said Harrison. "Now, rumble I think was the last generation feature; it's not the next-generation feature. I think motion sensitivity is. And we don't see the need to do that. Having said that, there will be specific game function controllers, potentially like steering wheels that do include vibration or feedback function — not from us but from third parties."

Sony clearly considers the feature a "last-generation" option, and any and all rumors about first-party force-feedback controllers are apparently false. We hear about them an awful lot, so perhaps this will put them all to rest. But for all of you out there who like the rumble, you may notice Harrison isn't ruling out third-party developers…so keep your eyes open.