Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) announced the second title to utilize the EyeTo camera technology . EyeToy: Groove will enable players to dance in time with one of the 28 licensed songs, from such artists as Elvis, Madonna, Jessica Simpson, Jamiroquai, and Fatboy Slim , with no controller or dance pad necessary . Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment London Studio , EyeToy: Groove is scheduled for release in Spring 2004 and will be available at an SRP of USD 49.99 with the EyeToy USB camera or USD 29.99 without.
EyeToy: Groove is the follow up to the highly successful EyeToy: Play. Eye Toy is an innovation that has sold nearly three million units worldwide and has proven to be a must-have largely because players of any age can be on television and become the star of the game. The technology, which introduces players to an entirely new gaming experience, has created unprecedented consumer interest spurring SCEA to release a second EyeToy- compatible title.
With EyeToy: Groove, players, simply by linking the EyeToy USB camera to a PlayStation 2, will appear live, on TV, enabling them to dance along with the on-screen prompts. Technique, style and timing are required as players move their arms, hips and body to the beat of one of the 28 licensed songs. Groove bonus points are given just for trying, so the more movement the higher the score.
If playing solo, gamers may try out dance moves in One Player Mode , or choose to just interact with on-screen special effects in the Chill Out Room . EyeToy: Groove also includes a number of multi-player options. In Tournament Mode players take turns to determine who has the best rhythm, reaction time and accuracy. Team Sync Mode allows friends to conquer the dance floor together, or go one step further with Battle Sync Mode, which allows players to dance together while being judged separately.
The popular Video Message feature from EyeToy: Play returns, allowing consumers to record personal messages onto a Memory Card (8MB). Messages are also interchangeable; video messages created in EyeToy: Groove can be viewed with EyeToy: Play and vice versa. The Memory Card may also be used to save and replay photos and videos automatically captured while playing the various game modes. As the EyeToy experience is all about movement, players looking to get a little exercise can take advantage of the Calorie Counter, they simply enter their weight and watch how many calories can be danced away.
