Xbox launches the hands-free Kinect

Friday, September 3, 2010

Throw your Xbox controller away — Kinect is getting gamers active.

What is it?
The boffins at Xbox realise not everyone's idea of gaming is sitting alone in a room shooting aliens on a controller no-one over the age of 35 knows how to use. The Kinect sensor hooks up to the Xbox 360 console and reads body movements, cutting out the controller. This means gaming can now get the pulse going and the kilojoules shifting. The smart unit recognises body shapes, so your scores can be stored and unsuitable games locked away from the kiddies.

What's good about it?
This is going to sell by the shed-load, because it is ridiculously fun, intuitive and well priced. There is no lag, it is easy to use and will open up Xbox to millions of people who would have previously never given the console a second glance. There will be something for all ages, genders and abilities, from kid-friendly games involving cuddly animals, through active sports-themed titles, to fitness work-outs to shed the pork.

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What's not?
With only 15 titles coming on the market at the November launch, you might get bored with the offerings. But this should change pretty quickly.

How much?
The sensor will be $AU 199 by itself, or $AU 449 bundled with an Xbox 360 unit and Kinect adventures game.

Where can I get it?
Visit www.xbox.com.au or call 132 058. It's available in November.

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