Kinect: Project Natal finally comes to life!

In a grand event that preceded the start of E3 2010, Microsoft finally made official its project to capture movements of the player. Kinect, formally known as Project Natal already has a first batch of games and offers exclusive new features and functions to the 360's dashboard. Pictures, videos and lots of information about Kinect was announced, check it here, "hands on" the peripheral that will revolutionize the way of playing videogames!

 

Since last summer, nothing aroused so much attention in the entertainment industry as Project Natal for which Microsoft announced its Xbox 360 console. The device is based on a camera, microphone and motion sensors to map the position of every player's body and objects around them. Project Christmas discards conventional joysticks and other accessories. It allows the player to control the actions of the game through voice commands and movements of their body. Besides a huge step for interactivity with the virtual universe, the accessory is a true revolution for video games. The first revelation of Microsoft with respect to their accessory was the final name of Project Natal: Now known as Kinect. It is a mixture of the Greek word "kinesis" (meaning move or movement) with "connect". The name clearly defines the attachment, because the player is finally connected to a platform with which he/she commands the actions through their gestures and movements.

 

The only disappointment of those who saw Kinect in its first demonstration was not to be able to experience it personally. Microsoft's presentations were marked by the troupe Cirque du Soleil and numerous videos, but no space for the long-awaited "test drive" with the device. Moreover, eight games that exploit the ability of Kinect were demonstrated, as well as new features of the Xbox 360 dashboard and resources to LIVE. Most games have a familiar character and have challenges and intuitive multiplayer interactions, but without letting the big games aside. The entertainment provided by Kinect promises to go far beyond games. A new feature to chat with audio and video consoles simultaneously and allows photo sharing over the network.

 

The First Games

Kinect Sports
 

Brings an overview of sports games like football/soccer, beach volleyball, boxing, bowling and table tennis. Although not enjoying the full power of the console, or peripheral, the game proved to be perfect for casual gamers of all ages.

Kinect Yoga & Tai Chi
 

Balance is one of the fundamental virtues of Yoga and Tai Chi but a single platform is not able to guide new players. If you thought about buying Wii Fit to keep fit and take care of the body, Kinect Yoga & Tai Chi is a new option. Through the presentation of an instructor and guidance light on the game screen, the title finds the correct position for your entire body.

Kinectimals
 

Not everyone can have their favorite animal as a pet. Already if you enjoy big cats, lions and tigers, better order your Kinectimals. Beautiful graphics make an animal simulator a title just like no other in a Xbox 360. You can have lions, cheetahs,Jaguars and many others as your own pet.

Kinect Adventures
 

The multiplayer mode divides the screen in two and connected players through LIVE. Kinect Adventures invites all the family to participate simultaneously in this series of games, rafting, mine-cart and other games. Controling the boat (or other vehicle) is determined by the cooperative action of the players.

Kinect: Disney

In its short presentation, bell flying over Cinderella's Castle and other scenarios of the Disney universe.

Joy Ride
 

Originally advertised as "free game" in the previous edition of E3 and then later denied, Joy Ride reappears with support for new peripheral. Put your avatar within a charming convertible and call your friends to a race full of obstacles. In place of the steering wheel, shift and pedals, the player uses his own hands and feet waving in the air.

Dance Central
 

Game like "Dance Hero", the player reproduces a number of movements performed by the dancer, compromising the tempo where the wrong step is.

Kinect: Star Wars
 

Kinect: Star Wars was the feeling of the event for hardcore gamers who expect to see much action with the Kinect. The moves with the lightsaber were made with both hands. Have to use force, if only the player to extend his hands toward the enemy. The game's graphics are beautiful and resemble the animated series Star Wars: Clone Wars.

 

 

As could be seen in video demonstrations, Microsoft has confirmed Kinect's real time response (lag). Somewhere around 150 milliseconds, but nothing that compromises the experience of gaming. The question is how the games using the device will behave in LIVE. Even after so many ads, nothing was said about the release date and official price of Kinect. The vague announcement for November 2010 remains valid. But the price is estimated to around $ 150 and $ 180, but no confirmation so far. Already those who venture to the biggest event of the gaming world is hoping that Kinect (formerly Project Natal) can be tested by their own hands. If this happens, you better prepare to spend a few hours in the queue.