Razer Releases Hydra PC Motion Controller, Compatible Portal 2 DLC

Peripheral-maker Razer has released its new Hydra motion controller for the PC alongside a long-promised expansion for Portal 2 that makes use of the controller's features. The new levels, now available on Steam, let Hydra-equipped players move the handheld controllers in real space to stretch, rotate and position blocks and objects on 10 exclusive maps, as well as setting precise positioning and orientation for in-game portals. The controller itself is now also available for purchase through Steam in a $140 bundle that includes a copy of Portal 2 -- as one of the first shipped, boxed products has been offered through the service. First demonstrated at the 2010 Consumer Electronic Show, the Hydra uses magnetic fields to detect the position and orientation of two handheld control units, which also feature traditional joysticks and buttons. Razer boasts Hydra compatibility with 125 PC games, and promises downloadable configurations for further games in the future.