Genius unveils Scratch DJ peripheral

Designed by established DJ tech firm Numark, the device appears to be somewhat bulkier than that which will be included with Activision’s DJ Hero. It sports five touch sensitive drum pads as well as a free-spinning turntable and crossfader.

It has also been confirmed that users will be able to upload their own sound samples via a USB compatible microphone. Genius’ press release also adds that the game “is set in distinctive urban environments” – but don’t hold that against it.

“Being involved with hip-hop for so long, Numark has consistently been the standard for innovation and leadership in computer DJ controllers – their quality is second to none,” QD3 Entertainment’s Quincy Jones III stated.

“We are very excited to partner with them to deliver the most authentic DJ experience for gamers and look forward to letting gamers and hip-hop enthusiasts get their hands on the controller for the first time at E3.”

This year’s Q4 market will be awash with expensive peripheral-based games vying for the public’s money. The list includes Guitar Hero 5, The Beatles: Rock Band and Tony Hawk: Ride.

Add to this games that require smaller add-ons such as Wii Sports Resort, Walk With Me and Lips, as well as DJ Hero and Scratch – and countless fitness titles for the Wii – and there’s a lot of plastic real estate up for grabs.