Head Tracking in Arma 2

Having just purchased Arma 2, but unable to play it during the 15GB download, I started browsing the web for some tips and tricks regarding the control scheme of this exceedingly complex game.

I'm not a fan of gimmicky motion tracking and alternative methods of player input. However, what I found in terms of motion tracking for Arma 2 is actually quite interesting. The TrackIR 5 from NaturalPoint is a piece of hardware which clips on to your monitor and tracks your real-life head movements to adjust your in-game character's view accordingly.

The TrackIR 5 tracks your head movements

The TrackIR 5 apparently taps into the game's free look control scheme and allows you to move your character's head without moving your character's body. That means you can look back over your shoulder while holding your weapon toward the enemy. I can imagine a number of uses for this in a complex, realistic military simulation such as Arma 2. Imagine being able to look around dynamically while running and gunning, or while driving a truck or flying a chopper.

The TrackIR 5 features excellent support for Arma 2 as well as a number of flight sims and racing games. The cost is a bit inaccessible at $150, but the link above offers a $5 discount.