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The Macintosh may not be considered a viable gaming platform by hardcore gamers, but you can sure make it feel like one with the newly introduced Logitech G13 advanced gameboard—a hybrid gaming keyboard designed to give you game-changing comfort and control on a Mac computer or a PC. The G13 features an ergonomically inspired shape and envelope-pushing functionality to provide more comfort during prolonged gaming sessions.

“If you’re into serious gaming, there’s no better feeling than playing with the G13 gameboard by your side,” said Ruben Mookerjee, Logitech’s director of product marketing for gaming. “Unlike other gameboards that focus only on programmability, the G13 advanced gameboard incorporates the principles of our award-winning Comfort Wave design. So whether you’re getting into World of Warcraft or walking into your next LAN party, the G13 gameboard gives you a powerful advantage over those forced to work with less.”

... the iconic contoured design complements the natural shape of your hand and fingers, while the smooth, concave home-row keys make it easy to locate buttons by touch. With three game modes, 25 programmable keys and a programmable analog stick, the G13 gameboard offers up to 87 ways for you to control your game (software installation required). And you can set up custom button-profiles for each one of your favorite titles. You can even create macros on the fly without having to pause your game.

And for another tactical advantage, the 160-by-43-pixel GamePanel LCD shows live game stats, system info and even messages from other players.

With the G13 gameboard, you’ll also get backlit keys that help you easily locate the right key in low-light conditions or lights-out play. And you can select from hundreds of available backlight colors, so your gameboard looks just the way you want it.

The G13 could be considered essential for gamers using the MacBook and MacBook Pro. Now that the MacBook finally has a decent graphics chip and the MacBook Pro has two(!), these systems have become viable options for high-end gaming. The only thing holding them back is the compact keyboard, which any gamer will tell you can quickly cramp your hands and fingers, if you’re even able to get to the right keys. Plug in the G13 and a separate mouse, and your gaming experience will change drastically.

The Logitech G13 advanced gameboard is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe in December for a suggested retail price of $79.99 (U.S.).

Product [Logitech G13 advanced gameboard]