Microsoft introduced Project Natal in E3 2009. This is the next level of immersive gaming experience including following features:
- Full-body gesture recognition
- Recognition of multiple players in the room (up to 4 players)
- Facial recognition – to recognize player emotions!
- Depth Sensor - Allows Natal to see the player’s room in 3D
- External objects recognition (scanning a drawing by player or a real customized skateboard into the game!)
- Multi-array microphone which extracts ambient noises and locates players’ voices
What more is possible with this technology?
The applications of such a technology are endless. Dare I say – this is a “game-changer” technology!
It will make programmers think differently about programming games, it will make game story writers consider the player interaction beyond just pushing a few game-pad buttons or moving around a Wiimote, it will challenge content creators to come up with content that blends well with external environment immersion, and much more.
Watch this space, as I follow the developments of this disruptive technology over the next few months as it launches into the market.
What others are saying
Steven Spielberg on Project Natal:
This is a pivotal moment that will carry with it a wave of change, the ripples of which will reach far beyond video games
