Kinect Four

Yup, Microsoft's new motion controller is called Kinect.

This morning at Microsoft's E3 Press Conference, they showed off their new motion-sensing technology.  Let's check out the pros and cons:

Pros:

• The motion sensing actually works better than I expected.  They demoed it live on stage and it never had any issues recognizing people or movements. (Although it remains to be seen how well it would work in low light situations, or if your shirt is the same color as the wall, etc.)
• XBox 360 now has a cool deal with ESPN where you can watch thousands of sporting events free (if you're a gold member).
• The unit itself is quite small, about the same width as an XBox 360 controller.

Cons:

• Based on what they showed on stage, Microsoft has issues with originality.  They basically announced Wii Sports, Wii Fit, and Nintendogs for XBox.  And while the motion-sensing technology is more advanced, I'm not convinced it's better for the games.  For example, to run in the hurdles mini-games, you actually have to run.  Likewise to jump.  And that could be fun, but not for very long.
• Microsoft stressed how there's no learning curve with Kinect, but I don't think that's true.  You have to learn how to use it just like you would have to learn a remote control for a TV.  For example, to open a program, you have to move your hand over it, and hold it there for a few seconds.  No point and click.  I fail to see how that's easier than pressing "right" and then "A".
• The issue with many motion-controlled games is putting motion where it's not needed.  The new Forza Motorsports racing game lets you walk around the car and look at it before you get in, but you have to stand and hold your arms out to steer.  Oh, and there's no gas or brake pedals.  How... fun?
• Most importantly, they didn't announce the price.  This likely means it's way too high.  If it was only $50, they probably would have announced it to great applause.  Rumors have said it could be as high as $200, and now that's looking more and more likely.

In short, it may not be worth the money.  I mean honestly, if all they have to offer are titles that were done years ago on other consoles, how do they expect to turn a profit?  We won't know for sure until it's released, but I can say now that I don't want or need it.

Take it from me: take the $200 and buy a Wii instead.  It's a much better deal.

-benjamines