Numark has released their video introducing the gameplay of and most importantly the controller of their game, Scratch.  Of course this is a game that will be going against DJ Hero this fall.  Numark is the most respected name for DJ equipment and has been making turntables for a very long time.  So, when it came time to create a controller for a DJ simulation game, they would be the ones that could create a very authentic DJ experience.

Now, going against DJ Hero, both games have their pros and cons.

DJ Hero:

• 3 buttons on the turntable
• An effects dial
• Activision/Blizzard name to back it up
• Has 10 special songs to play with a friend with a Guitar Hero Guitar
• Crossfader
• Can only scratch when the game tells you to
• Available October 27th

Numark’s Scratch

• 5 buttons not on the turntable that act like a drum machine (think Beatmania)
• Crossfader
• Numark is recognized by DJs around the world, but not recognized in the gaming industry
• Ability to scratch the turntable whenever you feel like it for more points
• Numark might have a better song selection due to their reputation in the Hip-Hop music scene
• No way to play with a guitarist for “mash-up” type play
• Available September 15th

http://www.vimeo.com/4353898

They make iPod apps for everything these days; from text and IM systems to using the iPhone camera to email while you drive. So it’s only natural that someone make an app that simulates the vinyl experience. Created by Theodore Watson, Spinning Vinyl uses the iPhone and iPod Touch’s built-in accelerometer to control how fast the record is spinning. Apparently, it’s best for a 2nd generation iPod Touch given that iPhones and the 1st Generation Touch have flat backs that don’t really allow for spinning but it is still an impressive app.

The rumors from before are true and I don’t think it’ll make a real DJ, like our blogger Fillmatic, happy. I don’t think it’ll make most people happy. I mean look at the remixed songs that are coming with the game:

“Feel Good Inc.” (Gorillaz) vs “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” (Marvin Gaye)
“Jayou” (Jurassic 5) vs “Rockit” (Herbie Hancock)
“Bustin’ Loose” (Chuck Brown) vs “Time of the Season” (The Zombies, DJ Shadow Mix)
“All Apologies” (Nirvana) vs “Give It to Me Baby” (Rick James, DJ Shadow Mix)
“Let’s Dance” (David Bowie) vs “Jack of Spades” (KRS One, DJ Shadow Mix)
“Shout” (Tears for Fears) vs “Pjanoo” (Eric Prydz)

I don’t know about this. We have some good songs in there but they are remixing them with somewhat unheard of songs.  We’ll see how it plays out. I think we have or are reaching the peak of rhytm based games and extra accessiories.

Supposedly Activision UK sent out a press release which included these renderings of the “DJ HERO” controller…

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