Abstract: Image-based video game control devices are described. In one aspect, a device for controlling a video game includes an input, an imager, and a movement detector. The input has a movable reference surface. The imager is operable to capture images of the reference surface. The movement detector is operable to detect movement of the reference surface based on one or more comparisons between images of the reference surface captured by the imager and to generate output signals for controlling the video game based on the detected movement. In another aspect, a device for controlling a video game includes a movable input, an imager, and a movement detector. The imager is attached to the input and is operable to capture images of a scene in the vicinity of the input.