60beat GamePad for Turns iPads into Full-Fledged Consoles

I never considered the iPad much of a game console, mainly because I believe a proper gaming system needs to offer tactile feedback (read ‘buttons’). But now that the 60beat GamePad is out, I’m prepared to be less dismissive of the idea.

60beat has developed a cool-looking GamePad that uses a standard headphone jack to communicate with the iOS device to play a number of games that have been deemed compatible with the accessory.

The controller draws its own power from the iPad or iPhone. The key advantage is that avid gamers will be able to remove the obtrusive on-screen touch-controls and focus better on the game they’re playing, not to mention control their character more accurately. It’s a complete solution with two analog sticks and L & R buttons.

The design might be somewhat confusing for those who are used with the simplicity of Apple products. Then again, the iPad was never meant to be used this way. But the solution certainly seems to work like a charm.