The San Jose Sharks’ New “4D” Broadcasts

The San Jose Sharks has an entirely new experience for viewers at home. For games played at the SAP Center that are also broadcasted by Comcast SportsNet California, Sharks fans can now feel the game while watching and listening to it. The Sharks have partnered with the entertainment technology specialists at Guitammer and have allowed their product called “The Buttkicker” to feel the hits of the game in real time.

The Buttkicker attaches to the viewer’s couch and is essentially an over-sized rumble pack, harkening back to the days of the Nintendo-64. The Buttkicker utilizes sensors in the boards to directly send signal to the in-home sensor. Each hit will literally be felt at home as the rumble can be felt with every board collision. The system is trumpeted by Guitammer as “4D” sports. The partnership is ready to begin on November 20 with a game against the visiting Florida Panthers.

Per David Koppet, Senior Executive Producer, Live Events for Comcast SportsNet California:

“Our goal is always to bring fans closer to the action, and what better way than to allow them to actually feel what’s happening on the ice. Guitammer’s 4D technology helps us transmit the electric energy of a Sharks hockey game right into your living room.”

The Sharks utilization of the Guitammer system is being considered a pilot program, however in the quest to bring the stadium experience to at-home viewers, the system could become a league-wide option. Big partnerships is nothing new to Guitammer as last year the company teamed up with the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) to give a similar feel of excitement to at-home ESPN2 viewers.

While the Buttkicker offers plenty of action of the sports angle, it can also be used with movies and video games as well. The unit isn’t cheap, $299.95, but for the home theatre enthusiast or Sharks fan, it isn’t unreasonable. If Guitammer can continue to expand their role in entertainment, expect more and more leagues and associations to jump on board.

(Photo via caguard)