Arkanoid DS and the paddle controller

Bundled with of Arkanoid DS is an arcade like controller where you spin a knob to move your ship. The device is similar to the NES Arkanoid controller, which is now a collector’s item (pictured on the right). Why is this notable?

First, it’s Arkanoid! Second, Taito is going to go down in history as the first third party developer to use the GBA slot for a special controller. Props to them for thinking outside of the box and I hope more developers take advantage of the GBA slot to add features to the DS. If you want to get the controller and Arkanoid DS you can purchase a bundle pack for 5,040 yen ($42) or pick up the game alone for 3,990 yen ($33). Nine bucks more for a special controller that replicates the arcade game sounds like a fair deal. Both versions and a standalone controller, if you made the mistake of buying the game only, are scheduled to come out on December 6 in Japan.