NHL agrees to customized game controllers

SAN DIEGO, June 13 (UPI) -- The NHL has reached an agreement with California's Mad Catz Interactive Inc. to create video game controllers featuring users' favorite hockey teams.

The multi-year deal signed between the sports group and the San Diego company will allow U.S. and Canadian users of any video game platform to customize their controllers with NHL logos, a press release from Mad Catz said Wednesday.

Mad Catz executive Darren Richardson said the business move will allow the company to use the trademarks of all four of North America's top four sports groups.

"This full suite of sports licenses uniquely positions Mad Catz to provide retailers and fans with compelling, stylish and entertaining sports-themed video game controllers and accessories," Richardson said.

NHL executive Brian Jennings echoed that sentiment, saying the venture would allow NHL fans to embrace any of the league's 30 teams.

"The introduction of NHL branded controllers and accessories provides hockey fans with a new and entertaining way to support their favorite teams on the ice from the comfort of their living rooms," Jennings said.