A Naruto Inspired Game Controller
Exhibited at the Digital Futures Open Show open Feb 1-2, 2019.
Description
The Naruto Gloves are a prototype of experimental game controllers designed for player immersion in the video games from the Naruto franchise. Within the Naruto universe, attacks(jutsus) are generated by channeling chakra—an innate life energy—through a combination of hand signs (hand seals). Our gloves allow video game players to physically act out the hand seals in order to virtually attack their opponents through the use of conductive fabrics and an Arduino Micro. Signs correspond to a specific key/button on the game. Additionally, our play mat made of conductive materials allows for the user to navigate the game DDR-style with left
and right movement.
There are three build objects: 1) a pair of fingerless black shinobi gloves, 2) a pair of forearm guards, and 3) a play mat. The wearables are all styled after Kakashi, one of the main characters in the storyline. The play mat also features symbols and colours referencing the characters.
Our goal is to bridge the gap between the physical and digital world through game interfaces.Tapping into cosplay culture and evoking nostalgia in long-time fans, we create an immersive experience where the player can suit up and step into the world of Naruto. For more information (linked documentation is based on an older prototype, but is still conceptually and technically relevant), visit http://blog.ocad.ca/wordpress/digf2004-fw201802-01/2018/11/experiment-3-naruto-glove-game-controller/
Written by Salisa Jatuweeapong
Conception
This project was first a prototype for one of my courses at OCAD University. We were tasked in creating an experience with materials and sensors. For the project I teamed up with Salisa Jatuweerapong and Brian Nguyen. We all grew up watching and reading Naruto and playing fighting games like Nintendo's Super Smash Bros, so it was not hard to figure out how we would approach the project.
After we saw the success of the initial prototype when we presented it to our class, we decided to polish the project and exhibit it at my program's open show, The Digital Future Open Show at the beginning of February.
For presentation and test purposes it was very important that the prototype and final version of the gloves were one-size fits all. The prototype was created using a re purposed knit glove, while the final version was made completely from scratch.
I created the final version out of faux vinyl leather and stretchable conductive and non-conductive fabric. The stretchable fabric was strategically used at the side seams and in between the fingers to fit most hand sizes. Conductive thread and strips of conductive fabric were used to create the circuit and sensors/switches.
Potential Design Changes: A Bluetooth or wireless connectivity between the glove controllers and the Arduino Micro (long wires got in the way of the experience and were hazardous). A more intuitive movement mat with more accurate sensitivity.
The Development Team
Madelaine Fischer-Bernhut
Prototype and final glove fabrication and design. Arm guard creation.
Salisa Jatuweerapong
Prototype glove fabrication, backhand plates for the final glove, and movement mat design and creation.
Brian Nguyen
Programmed the gloves with the Arduino Micro to work with Super Smash Flash 2.
All: Conceptual planning, circuit creation, and documentation.
Exhibition and Documentation
Hand Signs
Two of the four initial hand signs used with the prototype were changed for the final version of the gloves, because of slight design changes.
Hare (later changed to Ox)
Tiger (later changed to Ram)
Dog
Boar