The arrival of Nintendo’s motion-sensitive controller for the Wii console nearly two years ago was revolutionary; it changed not just how we play video games, but what we think about and expect from new titles.

And it spurred competitors to change their thinking, too.

Microsoft already has starting re-evaluating its Xbox 360 controller. Now, Sony is thought to be doing the same for the PlayStation 3 as well. This week, GamesIndustry.biz reports that the company is working on a new controller for PS3 with its own motion-sensing technology.

Even more interesting, the device is said to function either as one unit or as two, thanks to a “break apart” feature that lets gamers have two-fisted fun much the same way Nintendo’s Wiimote-and-nunchuk paring works.

Sony hasn’t said anything about the hybrid device, but GamesIndustry and other trade publications believe the company may spill details next month during the E3 media and business show — an annual gaming convocation that has been the site of major gaming announcements.

Timing could be a problem, though: Sony just introduced a new controller for PS3, the wireless DualShock 3, in April. DualShock 3 improves on its Sixaxis predecessor by having advanced rumble capability, which enables the controller to vibrate in synchronization with action in a game.

So why would Sony turn around and announce yet another new controller now?

It’s unlikely that Sony intended to spend the time and money developing DualShock 3 only to make it appear just four months later that the technology was already obsolete.