Taking a Look at Xbox 360 Kinect

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StephsTooDef

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Published on November 7, 2010 10:16:30 AM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KfYNd0L_fk

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Grand Theft Auto V (2013)

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Kinect, Microsoft's answer to motion controls, is an impressive piece of hardware. The sensor flaunts three cameras, which tracks both you and the room in 3D. Kinect is the biggest piece of hardware compared to the add-ons from Nintendo and Sony. While it is big in size, it is surprisingly lightweight. Most of the weight resides in the base since it is motorized and tracks you up and down.

The setup is relatively easy and works on every Xbox 360 SKU available. The newly released Slim 360s have a Kinect ready port that is internally powered. Older 360 consoles allow you to use the USB adaptor to plug into the port in the back of the console. There's also a USB extender included in the box. This extender is essential because it allows the network adaptor to be plugged into the back of the console as well.

Once Kinect is set up and the 360 is powered on, you'll go through an easy tutorial that takes several minutes. From that point on you'll be able to experience everything that Kinect has to offer. The Kinect Hub on the dashboard is stylish. The bottom right side of the screen shows a silhouette of you in action. Kinect ID allows you to have the senor track your face so that you can automatically sign in. Since the tracking works well, having a friend join in your gaming session has never been easier. All they have to do is stand next to you and then you're instantly ready for a 2 player game. Extending your right or left arm while swiping to maneuver through options works well and is futuristic. Keeping your hand over the panel you wish to select will launch you into that option. Of course it's not quicker or easier than pressing a button on the controller, but it sure is fun to do.

A video chat feature has been added to the dashboard that is revolutionary. Being able to see friends while chatting using Kinect takes communicating on the 360 to another level. There is a bit of lag while using this feature and so far it only supports chatting between 2 people.

Voice recognition works rather well but does have some restrictions. Easily saying "Xbox, play game" will launch whatever game is in the drive. Some menu options don't seem to respond to the voice recognition. Even though there are some noticeable flaws, maneuvering through the menus by giving commands is mind blowing.

The biggest limitation with Kinect is definitely the space required to play. In order to be successfully tracked you must be 6 to 8 feet away from the television. This significant amount of room definitely won't be suitable for everyone. Those of you that have a small living space may want to start moving furniture now!

All in all, Kinect is taking gaming to another level by allowing you to be the controller. While there seems to be a few limitations now, Kinect is still oozing with potential to be something successful. This could be the stepping stone to how video games will be played 10 years from now.

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