Xbox's new Project Natal Sensor

In Microsoft’s Xbox 360 “Project Natal” you are the controller! A whole new way to play that will bring on a new category of gaming with controller-free games and entertainment.

Project Natal uses a combination of an RGB camera, depth sensor, and a multi-array microphone to create a natural way to play. The system works by generating a 3d model of the user in real time by implementing the camera and depth sensor. This will allow the camera to track all movements in 3 different dimensions, practically bringing your living room into the game. It also includes facial recognition and voice activated controls. The depth sensitive camera technology origins are said to stem from technology developed to be used on missiles.

“‘Project Natal’ gives the industry’s creators and storytellers the freedom to dream of new experiences and to tell stories never before possible,” said Don Mattrick, senior vice president for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft Corp.

New games are already being developed by Elite publishers such as Activision Blizzard, Bethesda Softworks, CAPCOM, Disney Interactive, Electronic Arts, Konami, MTV Games, Namco Bandai, Sega, Square Enix, THQ Inc. and Ubisoft. Further details of publishers’ new “Project Natal”-inspired projects planned to be released at a later date.