We're looking for new writers to join us!

CES 2008: Nikko (R2D2 Projector)

by: Chuck -
More On: CES 2008
Of all the appointments I made at CES this one was scheduled out of pure geek love and not out of any real gaming angle. As a huge Star Wars nerd I was interested to see if the R2D2 Project had changed at all from what we had seen at last years' CES. The good news is that the folks at Nikko went back to the drawing board a bit and have updated their R2D2 project from a standard definition projector to a full 720P projector. It's a crucial change as a standard definition R2D2 projector is a fun toy, a HD R2D2 projector is actually useful.

It's important to note that this device is a fully functioning remote control droid and not just a projector you sit in the back of the room. The unit has a decent range and speed but I'm not sure you're want to have it rolling around on anything other than a nice flat surface. The remote control functions are useful as you can adjust the angle and height of the projector with the included remote control. The remote comes in the shape of the Millennium Falcon and when you're not using it it looks like a nice display piece. I'm not sure how comfortable the controller is for long periods of time but damn, it does look really cool. The projector itself is solid but it's not going to set the world on fire, especially when the combination is going to set you back around $2,700.

Nikko was also showing off a R2D2 webcam with lightsaber microphone. I didn't get a chance to play with the set but I do have concerns about talking into the business end of a lightsaber.