XaviXPORT: Sports, Fun, and Fitness with a Video Game Console

Move over Nintendo Wii, the more interactive XaviX console was here first. In August 2004, Japan-based SSD Co. released an unusual video game console on the unsuspecting American Market: XaviXPORT.

This revolutionary device is the world's first video game system based upon movement and motion, rather than sitting on the couch with a controller.

The Console

Unlike the popular Wii, which was released years later, with XaviXPORT each game has a controller that is specifically designed for each specific game. This is done not just to replicate the technical physics of the game, but to recreate an authentic experience; to truly put the gamer inside of the game.

That is not the only aspect that makes XaviX unique. Unlike a traditional game console which is essentially a computer that runs a game program, the XaviXPORT console contains no processor. The chip is actually on the cartridge. This allows for the console to maintain an inexpensive price point (only $79.99 MSRP), and it allows for a compact size. The console its self is scarcely larger than two DVD cases. It will blend well with any entertainment center and can be stored almost anywhere.

Keeping the processor off board also has the distinct advantage of allowing SSD Co. to upgrade the system without consumers having to replace their console. The upgraded chipset can simply be included on future game cartridges and then connect to the console.

SSD Co. is currently designing software to take advantage of its 3D-capiable XaviX®2 processor. The current generation of XaviX titles use immersive 2D technology. It creates a good idea of what Super Nintendo games may be like if that console were still supported today.

The Sports Games

To date, only eight "applications" or games have been released... A very small library for a console that is just turning three years old, but fans are not complaining.

Three of the most popular were launch titles:

1. XaviXBaseball - The Simple joy of hitting a ball

With four modes of play, up to eight players can play on one team and swing a very real baseball bat "controller" at a virtual ball to win the championship. In the mood for something more? That's not a problem! Instead of micromanaging while spending time in the outfield as with many modern baseball iterations, XaviXBaseball allows the player to use a controller shaped like a baseball and actually make pitching motions to strike out the opponent!

Both the 'bat' controller and the 'ball' controller have special sensors that are extremely effective in translating the player's motion into an action in the game. The same is true with all XaviX products.

A game along with two custom made controllers? It sounds expensive, but the suggested retail price is only $49.99.

2. XaviXTennis - The thrill of a tennis match in a living room

The XaviX translation of Tennis is intense competition and an intense workout! With two modes of play, gamers can opt to compete in a virtual tennis tour, and battle onscreen personalities of varying skill levels.

Having friends over? It's a good thing that XaviXTennis handily comes packed with two tennis-racket style controllers. Two humans can sweat it out in exhibition mode on a British Grass, French Clay, or American or Australian Hard courts. The game will behave differently depending on which of the four courts are chosen.

Finally, the game features four training modes to enhance specific skills, such as serving, swing control, finishing, and endurance. Quite a nice package for less than $50.

3. XavixBowling - An in-home Bowling Alley

King Ralph did it in the movies, and now you can too. Have fun bowling in the comfort of your own home. XavixBowling, with its custom bowling ball controller offers customizable games with up to four people, and tournaments with up to eight. If that's not enough, it also packs three mini-games to help increase speed and accuracy. All for only $49.99.

After completing a successful worldwide launch, SSD Co. turned its attention to creating additional XaviX titles through innovation. Over the next two years, two more popular sports games would be launched.

1. XaviXGolf - Like having the green in your own home

Not only one of the most ambitious titles, but one of the most popular as well. Released, in 2005, this game transcended the video game market and sent businessmen and retired grandmothers to places like Toys 'R' Us just so they can practice their back swing!

Players can gold the front nine, the back nine, or the full 18-holes with up to three additional friends in either Stroke Play or Match Play in XaviXGolf's exhibition mode. In tournament mode, as with exhibition, up to four people can compete in Stroke Play, but eight players can take the green in Match Play.

Additionally, golfers can participate in the challenging "10 Shot Mode" which allows the player ten chances to score a hole-in-one.

This ambitious game come packed with one putter, one driver, and a swing sensor which works like a virtual tee. It can be had for the modest price of $79.99. Even combined with the cost of the console, it's still cheap for a virtual golf system.

2. XaviXBassFISHING - Like you're on the lake when you're indoors

Released in 2006, BassFISHING is perhaps the most technologically advance XaviX title to date. Players use an authentic fishing rod to interact with the game. Unlike all other XaviX games that use motion sensors, BassFISHING uses RF technology (radio frequency) to detect the lure and the reeling of the fishing line.

Fishermen can compete in tournaments in five separate locations, each with three difficulty levels for an ongoing and ever-changing experience on the virtual lake. With the 'Free-Fishing' mode, grab a cold drink and enjoy the relaxation of waiting for the next bite.

With twelve lures to choose from as well as live bait, there's something here for the fisherman in everyone. The game, along with rod and reel, comes packed for $79.99.

The Fitness Games

It wasn't long before SSD Co. realized that if they can get gamers off the couch, then they can get them to exercise too, and have fun while doing it. In 2005, SSD teamed up with action star Jackie Chan and Jackie Chan Studio Fitness (JCS Fitness) was born.

In September 2005, both JCS Fitness titles were released in the U.S.

1. POWERBOXING - Step into the ring

A cross between game and an exercise routine, POWERBOXING lets players burn calories while having fun.

In 'Championship' mode, gamers take on a gallery of boxing avatars, each with their own moves, strengths, weaknesses, and styles. By guarding, moving quickly, and making the right attacks, with practice, players will be able to move from round to round until earning the title.

After each round, XaviX displays the calories burned on the screen. After each game, the total calories burned is shown. An average of 40 to 60 calories can be burned each match. Depending upon the stamina and physical attributes of the human boxer in the ring, over 200 calories can be burned per session. The system asks for personal information (gender, weight) to determine caloric burn.

Exhibition and exercise modes are also included in the game to allow players to practice their techniques before going for the championship. All along, Jackie Chan provides congratulations' and encouragement.

With two gloves packed in with the game, the price point of $59.99 is no higher than most PS3 or Xbox 360 titles.

2. J-MAT - Expert fitness choreography

Sometimes the featured trainers of fitness videos don't seem credible, often out of shape themselves, they seem like they're just trying to sell you on a gimmick. With J-MAT, the personal instructor has instant credibility with a name like Jackie Chan.

J-MAT is more of an exercise routine than a video game. With controls similar to that of the popular arcade game Dance Dance Revolution, J-MAT comes with a four-panel interactive workout mat. Instead of a video or DVD to work out with, digitized Jackie Chan shows the way, courtesy of your XaviXPORT console.

Before getting started, the system will ask for gender and weight to determine caloric burn. Also, it keeps track of statistics, such as calories burned per day, per week, per month, and more.

The primary mode of exercise is called "Step Lively." This mode features three different difficulty levels and between 5 and 32 minute workout routines. Pick your level, choose your how much time you have, and get going. With each difficulty level featuring thirty different fitness routines, the challenge never gets out.

Get both a workout and have fun with Jackie Chan's Action Run. In this mode of play, a runner takes control of Jackie Chan on a five minute perilous run through the streets of Hong Kong. Jump over barricades, run left or right to avoid obstacles, duck beneath dangers above, and battle occasional gang of ninja's by stepping on their face. Jackie Chan's action run is a great warm-up, and is better than coffee in your cup to get those rough morning jumpstarted.

Finally, there are two additional modes of play: Vigorous Step and Dash and Reflex; both designed to increase speed and stamina.

With an MSRP of $89.99, J-MAT is at the upper echelon of price for a XaviX title. However, its combination of workout routines outshines $300 worth of traditional exercise videos and costs far less average workout equipment. Anyone looking to lose pounds and have fun should look no further.

3. XaviX Lifestyle Manager - Live a healthy life

Not really a game at all, the Lifestyle Manager incorporates a scale and software to live healthy and be fit. It charts weight over time to track Weight Trends, BMI, Body Fat Percentage and Lifestyle Analysis.

The Packaged XaviXScale is easy to use. Easy to use and supports up to 330 pounds. Its 4" LCD display is easy to read. The game cartridge supports up to four different users making the XaviX Lifestyle Manager ideal for family fitness.

The XaviXPORT console is maintaining its niche in the wide world of videogames, where production costs often rival the budgets of Hollywood blockbusters. It remains a interactive way to enjoy sports and a fun way to be fit, for now, and for the foreseeable future.