The buzz out of E3 today isn't coming from Apple for a change, but from that other tech company - Microsoft. The new hardware/software concept previously codenamed Project Natal has been revealed as "Kinect".Kinect is a "set-top" device that uses infrared cameras to detect the movements of the player, freeing them up from any sort of remote, as is necessary on the Nintendo Wii. Apart from gameplay, the setup and control actions can also be done without a controller. The system is enabled for multiplayer action over the web through the extensive XBOX Live community, and also features voice command technology.
The brand took a different tack by making the feature an add on to the existing Microsoft XBOX 360, instead of a new console altogether. This will keep the barrier to entry for XBOX owners low, while still earning Microsoft new console converts as they will need to purchase the 360 and the new product.
Early games include Dance Central, which is said to be similar in concept to Rock Band and Guitar Hero, and features music from Gwen Stefani and Lady Gaga. A new Star Wars game is eliciting solid early reviews, while device branded games like Kinect Sports, Kinect Joy Ride!, Kinect Adventure!, and Kinectimals are sure to be early bestsellers.
No release date or price has been announced, but they are likely pushing hard for Holiday 2011.
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