Fancy keeping fit whilst playing Mario Kart? If you do, then you might be interested in this unique mod which uses an exercise bike and connects it directly to Mario Kart on a Super Nintendo gaming console (SNES).
The fitness mod has been developed by Canadian modder Brent Smith, who has used an Arduino board, together with a few sensors/switches and some transistors, to convert the controls from the SNES controller onto the exercise bike, which can now be plugged straight into the SNES. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
How It Works
Peddling provides the power and acceleration for your Mario Kart; the faster you pedal, the faster your Kart will travel. Other controls such as firing and direction are controlled by buttons on the fitness bike’s handlebars. “This is a lot harder than it looks, I have another video I’ll upload soon which better describes the bike controller.” Smith says.
The integration of the exercise bike with the SNES console is a fascinating example of how modern technology can be used to breathe new life into classic gaming experiences. By using an Arduino board, Smith was able to translate the physical activity of pedaling into digital signals that the SNES could understand. This required not only technical know-how but also a deep understanding of both the gaming console and the exercise equipment.
Benefits and Challenges
This innovative mod offers several benefits. Firstly, it promotes physical activity while engaging in a traditionally sedentary activity. Gamers can now enjoy their favorite Mario Kart races while getting a good workout. This could be particularly appealing for those who find it hard to motivate themselves to exercise regularly. The combination of gaming and fitness could make workouts more enjoyable and less monotonous.
However, there are also challenges to consider. The coordination required to pedal and control the game simultaneously can be quite demanding. This adds an extra layer of difficulty to the game, which might not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, the setup requires some technical skills to assemble, which might be a barrier for those who are not tech-savvy.
For more information on the SNES Mario Kart exercise bike mod, jump over to Brent’s website for more details.
Smith’s creation is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the modding community. It opens up new possibilities for how we can interact with our favorite games and encourages a more active lifestyle. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative ways to combine fitness and gaming.
Source: Kotaku
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