Code named Project Natal by Microsoft, this sensor device that will be able to be added to any XBOX 360 will allow for a controller-free gaming experience. Through Natal, the user will be interact with the Xbox 360 using gestures, spoken commands or presented objects and images instead of the regular game controller we use today.
To be released in late 2010, the Project Natal sensor is the world’s first to combine an RGB camera, depth sensor, multi-array microphone and custom processor running proprietary software all in one device. Unlike 2-D cameras and controllers, Project Natal tracks your full body movement in 3-D, while responding to commands, directions and even a shift of emotion in your voice.
In this video that demo’s project Natal’s capabilities, the user interacts with the video game character called Milo who is capable of recognizing the user’s face, voice and emotions and respond accordingly.
This is quite a feat as it significantly reduces the ‘amount’ of suspension of disbelief required to immerse one into the game than is required otherwise at current.
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