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'Smell Effect' Lets Gamers Enjoy the Scent of Victory

by Warren Riddle on April 29, 2009 at 09:46 AM



If you've ever been curious about the smell of napalm in the morning, but your combat history is limited to 'Call of Duty,' then read on, friends. Scent enthusiasts in the scientific community have been trying to bring devices that emanate odors to our televisions and video games for 60 years. Now, those decades of research have finally culminated in a race for "smell-o-vision" dominance.

Last month, we reported on a team of U.K. researchers seeking to promote their 'Virtual Cocoon' headset, which engrosses users with a virtual world complete with smells and tastes. Earlier this week, news leaked of another British group of aroma aficionados who, this time, hope to provide video gamers with scents that correspond to gaming environments. Engineers from Birmingham University developed the device, which incorporates scented waxes and fans, with funding from the Ministry of Defense. That's right. If we can't smell the fuel from our 'Grand Theft Auto' flamethrower, then the terrorists have already won.

If you're like us, and have been anxiously waiting to smell the beautiful Clotho in 'God of War II,' stay tuned. We'll keep our noses to the wind for any new developments. [From: Joystiq]

Tags: future tech, FutureTech, senses, smell effect, smell tech, smell-o-surfing, smell-o-vision, SmellEffect, SmellTech, top

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