10 Absolutely Cursed Gadgets That Live in My Head Rent-Free

This mixture laptop mouse and pool cue simulates “authentic pool action using a real pool stick” for taking part in PC video games. Or a minimum of, that was the gross sales pitch when it rolled out in 2000. Mind you, this wasn’t constructed for a particular recreation: The PoolShark was marketed as a peripheral that gamers might use for any and all pool video games on PC. And it labored about in addition to you may count on.

Its scroll wheel is oriented horizontally, transferring left and proper versus up and down, and is on prime of the mouse the place the plastic types a small hole. That’s the place gamers perch their pool cue, hopefully having already cleared off half their desk as a result of the stick it comes with is greater than two ft lengthy (the controller works with full-size cue sticks too for added chaos). Moving the mouse adjusts the angle of your shot and the scroll wheel controls the strike’s pace.

The PoolShark was reportedly deliberate to be the primary of a number of PC controllers themed to {golfing}, fishing, and different sports activities as a part of a collaboration between gaming peripheral producers InterAct Accessories and Miacomet. The PoolShark’s lackluster gross sales finally led to these plans being scrapped. Still, you must admire that degree of undeserved confidence.