Nintendo's been trying out a lot of new things with the Wii. With stuff like the Balance Board and Vitality Sensor, it makes you wonder what other wacky ideas Nintendo's had. Here's a look at a controller design they patented for a horse-riding game which could have other applications. Let's just say that it might be better left at the patent stage.

If you thought the Wii Balance Board was off the beaten path wait until you see Nintendo’s Wii Horseback Riding Saddle. We’re not kidding about this.

The inflatable seat has a pocket for the Wii remote, which is used to sense movement via the accelerometers. Players hold the nunchuck to simulate holding the reins or, as the Nintendo patent describes, “a raised hand for balance as in Bronco riding, a lasso, a sword or other weapon, etc.”

Here’s a better look at the device. The cushion may inflatable, made of foam or another material, but it seems like Nintendo is leaning towards an inflatable seat. “A one-way air valve of conventional design may be provided to allow the user to inflate cushion. Construction may be similar to that of conventional inflatable exercise balls. An advantage of an inflatable design is that it is compact to ship and store.”

McClubbin via siliconera.com »