Nintendo today announced a game controller that is operated the user’s feet. Called the "Nintendo Balance Board", the new product allows gamers to manipulate the action on their screens while moving around and on and off the device like skate boarders.

The new controller will also be launched with a new game called Wii Fit. Players will get points in the game for difficult moves jumping on and off the board.

The new development shows why Nintendo’s Wii is outselling Sony (SNE) PS3 and Microsoft (MSFT) Xbox 360. Even with price cuts these game consoles are too "old style" for anyone other than hard core players.

If the Wii continues with innovations like this, it is very likely to continue to draw those with more casual interest in video games, and strenthen its lead over rivals.

Douglas A. McIntyre