Check out this Samus Aran costume built by 11-year old Joseph DeRose, Metroid fan and his father in preparation for Halloween. The pair still have a little work to do on the complete costume but the arm canon is ready for action. Watch the video after the break to see it in action.
The arm contains an array of LED lights that are controlled by an Arduino together with a speaker. The DIY arm cannon can shoot either Plasma Beam, Power Beam or charged shots. Another cool feature requires DeRose to “log-in” to use the weapon that can then shoot Plasma Beam, Power Beam, and charged shots.
The Inspiration Behind the Costume
Joseph DeRose and his father drew inspiration from the iconic character Samus Aran from the Metroid series. Samus Aran is a bounty hunter equipped with a powerful suit and an arm cannon, making her one of the most recognizable characters in video game history. The father-son duo wanted to bring this character to life, and they have certainly succeeded in capturing the essence of Samus’s arm cannon.
The Metroid series has been a favorite among gamers since its debut in 1986. The series is known for its atmospheric exploration, intricate level design, and the strong, silent protagonist, Samus Aran. By creating this costume, Joseph and his father are paying homage to a game that has had a significant impact on the gaming community.
Technical Details and Challenges
Building the arm cannon was no small feat. The project required a deep understanding of electronics and programming. The Arduino microcontroller is the brain behind the arm cannon, controlling the LED lights and the speaker. The LEDs are programmed to light up in different patterns, simulating the various beams that Samus can shoot in the game.
One of the most challenging aspects of the project was integrating the “log-in” feature. This feature adds an extra layer of interactivity, making the arm cannon feel more like a real piece of technology. When Joseph logs in, the arm cannon becomes operational, allowing him to switch between different types of beams. This feature not only makes the costume more authentic but also adds an educational element, teaching Joseph about programming and electronics.
The materials used for the arm cannon were carefully selected to ensure durability and authenticity. The outer shell is made from lightweight materials, making it easy for Joseph to wear and maneuver. The internal components, including the Arduino, LEDs, and speaker, are securely housed within the shell, ensuring that the arm cannon can withstand the rigors of Halloween night.
The father-son duo also paid close attention to the aesthetic details of the arm cannon. They used reference images from the Metroid games to ensure that the design was as accurate as possible. The result is a stunning replica that captures the look and feel of Samus Aran’s iconic weapon.
Via Engadget
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