Microsoft unveils KINECT; formerly Project Natal

By Hector Cortez Jun 14, 2010, 8:45 GMT

Microsoft today unveiled Kinect for Xbox 360, previously code-named "Project Natal."

Microsoft today unveiled Kinect for Xbox 360, a controller-free gaming device, previously code-named "Project Natal." Kinect will be in store November 4, with 15 games (scroll down for details) available at launch.

The Kinect sensor plugs directly into any Xbox 360 and, despite its small size, contains a camera, audio sensors, and motion-sensing technology that tracks 48 points of movement on the human body. It also has the ability to recognize faces and voices.

“You are the controller,” said Mike Delman of Microsoft. “You simply step in front of the sensor and Kinect sees you move, hears your voice and recognizes your face.”

Some of what intrigued industry experts is that Kinect can perform full-motion tracking of the human body at 30 frames per second and it isn’t affected by what a user is wearing or what type of furniture is around.

A commercial-free version of tonight's unveiling, which featured a performance by Cirque du Soleil, will air on U.S. television on Tuesday, June 15, at 3:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. EDT on Nickelodeon, MTV and other channels. Later in the week, video of the event will be posted on www.xbox.com.

The following games will be available at launch:

“Kinect Adventures” (Microsoft Game Studios). Jump, dodge and kick your way through adventures set in a variety of exotic locations.

“Kinectimals” (Frontier Studio, Microsoft Game Studios). Invites children, their parents and animal lovers of all ages to build lasting friendships with some of the world’s most exotic creatures. Just like real pets, your “Kinectimals” will come running when they hear your voice, respond to commands like “jump,” “roll-over” and “play dead,” and purr with joy when you scratch them behind the ears.

“Kinect Joy Ride” (Big Park, Microsoft Game Studios). The first controller-free racing game reinvents driving and Kart racing by adding massive jumps and full body stunts to the classic Kart racing action.

“Kinect Sports” (Rare, Microsoft Game Studios). Turn your living room into a world-class stadium, bowling alley, soccer pitch or arena. With “Kinect Sports” you’re not only the star player, you are the controller. “Kinect Sports” features soccer, beach volleyball, bowling, table tennis, boxing and multiple track and field events.

“Dance Central” (MTV Games). Dance Central is the first full-body, controller-free dance video game with choreography for beginners and experts. Whether you’re rehearsing in Break It Down! or owning the stage in Perform It, you’ll be introduced to more than 600 moves in the game and more than 90 dance routines all created by professional choreographers. The game features tracks from artists including Lady Gaga, No Doubt, M.I.A., Bell Biv Devoe, and more.

“Your Shape: Fitness Evolved” (Ubisoft). Burn calories your way — choose a personal trainer to help you meet your specific fitness goals, take a yoga or martial arts class, or play fun family-friendly minigames. As you exercise, you’ll receive specific feedback on your every move, thanks to the game’s real-time precise tracking system.

Also coming to Kinect this holiday are “EA SPORTS Active 2” (EA SPORTS), “DECA SPORTS FREEDOM” (Hudson Entertainment), “Dance Masters” (Konami), “Adrenalin Misfits” (Konami), “Zumba Fitness” (Majesco), “Sonic Free Riders” (SEGA), “The Biggest Loser: Ultimate Workout” (THQ), “Motion Sports” (Ubisoft), and “Game Party: In Motion” (Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment).