Having had an extensive hands-on experience with the upcoming G‘AIM’E plug-and-play lightgun, it is shaping up to be the perfect way to relive the excitement of arcade shooters.
Tassei Denki, a Japanese accessories specialist known for assisting various hardware manufacturers in launching their third-party gaming products, has taken a bold step with the G‘AIM’E plug-and-play lightgun, positioning itself as a self-sufficient venture in this niche market.
The timing of this product launch aligns well with the increasing demand for gaming peripherals that cater to a growing audience, including millennials with disposable income looking to reminisce about their youth through gaming-related gadgets like the PDP Riffmaster and CRKD Guitar Controller.
G‘AIM’E stands out from its predecessors by focusing on recreating the nostalgic experience of late 90s arcade lightgun shooters in a home setting, eliminating the need for cumbersome sensor attachments. During my trial runs with games like Time Crisis and Point Blank, the seamless gameplay on a modern LCD TV truly transported me back in time.
The standout feature of G‘AIM’E is its hardware, particularly in the ‘Basic’ bundle which includes an authentic gun peripheral, a mini-console with Time Crisis pre-installed, a 3-meter cable, a matte-black design, a standard USB-C power cable, and an HDMI lead – providing everything necessary to dive into Bandai Namco’s classic 1995 arcade game.
For enhanced gameplay experiences, players can opt for the Premium or Ultimate bundles, offering additional games like Point Blank, Steel Gunner, and Steel Gunner 2, along with a dedicated pedal for added immersion.
Unlike previous lightgun technologies, G‘AIM’E utilizes advanced AI for precise aim tracking, requiring an initial setup process of shooting nine targets to calibrate the gun accurately. Although the setup may seem laborious, it ensures a consistent and accurate gaming experience.
One significant advantage of the G‘AIM’E gun is its compatibility with various types of monitors, from OLED to LED screens and projectors. During my hands-on demo, I tested its performance in different lighting conditions, and it delivered impressive results in both well-lit and dim environments.
In addition to its authentic performance reminiscent of arcade setups, G‘AIM’E offers players customization options like using a side button for reloading and taking cover, besides the traditional pedal function – catering to individual preferences based on gaming habits.
While the rumble button on the G‘AIM’E gun may not replicate the arcade kickback experience, it still provides adequate feedback to enhance gameplay immersion.
However, the complexity of the product lineup, limited game selection, and pricing structure could potentially confuse consumers. Opting for the Premium or Ultimate packages, which include additional games and accessories, may offer better value for a more comprehensive lightgun gaming experience.
Though future game expansion plans are currently restricted due to licensing agreements with Bandai Namco, Tassei Denki remains transparent about its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the gaming experience offered by G‘AIM’E.
After my preview session with the G‘AIM’E lightgun, the nostalgic journey of playing arcade classics like Time Crisis and Point Blank felt remarkably authentic, promising an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience reminiscent of the past.
Despite potential price concerns, the imminent launch of G‘AIM’E in mid-November offers an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts to relive the timeless charm of arcade shooters in the comfort of their homes.