The Katamari series is a strange one, but admittedly very fun. Still, if there’s one problem I’ve had with it, it’s the controls. Eventually, you get used to the weird joystick controls but still, it leaves something to be desired.

Obviously, Kelly Farrell wasn’t satisfied the controls either, going as far as to design her own Katamari ball.

Rolling Her Way to Success

Using an optical mouse to track the ball, as well as some circuits and cheap PS2 controllers, she managed to build a fully functional ball that works well for the game. Though the original plan was to use one of those giant rubber yoga balls, that didn’t wind up working too well, instead having to rely on something smaller and more stable.

I’d explain how it works, but I’m not a real expert when it comes to circuits so maybe it’d be better if she explained it.

Tags: katamari