With the Kinect sensor for the Xbox 360 console, you get to be the controller, abandoning the traditional devices gamers have used for the last 30 years. Imagine being able to choose your music, movies or control your games with your voice or with a simple hand wave; that is the Kinect controller. However, with the advent of such a new technology, there are bound to be questions — and we have those answers.
What is the difference between the Xbox 360 console and the Xbox 360 Kinect?
The Xbox 360 console is the video game platform that succeeded the Xbox console in 2005, and 57.6 million users have played games on it since then. The Xbox 360 Kinect is an add-on peripheral designed for this console, and it opens up a portal to a new way of gaming: without a controller. It isn’t required to buy one to play regular games, but it is required to play Kinect games.
What is the difference between Kinect games and regular Xbox 360 games?
Kinect games require the Kinect controller to function. For example, Dance Central needs the sensor to not only determine whether you are properly performing the on-screen dance moves but how accurately you are performing them to grant the appropriate amount of points. It also takes pictures of your dancing during certain segments, something which is impossible with a standard controller. Regular Xbox 360 games do not require the Kinect sensor, but many have designed parts of the game to be enhanced with one.
You can tell the difference between a Kinect game and a regular game by its packaging; Kinect games have a purple strip on the cover and clearly state “KINECT” on the front.
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Dance Central 484 total customer reviews... |
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Just Dance 3 161 total customer reviews... |
Will Kinect work with my console?
As long as you have a functional Xbox 360 console, Kinect will work with any model.
What is the difference between Project Natal and Kinect?
When the device was originally announced in mid-2009, it was known by its code name “Project Natal.” This was chosen for its definition of “relating to birth,” as in the birth of new technology. When the device was reintroduced at the Electronic Entertainment Expo show of 2010, its official name was announced to be “Kinect,” so the two devices are one and the same.
How far away do I need to stand from my Kinect sensor?
Depending on the number of players who will be using Kinect, you will need to stand a certain amount of distance from the device in order for it to work properly. If you are playing by yourself, you must stand at least six feet away from the device. If you have a friend joining you, you must both stand at least eight feet away from the device.
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PowerUP Heroes 24 total customer reviews... |
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Wipeout In the Zone 79 total customer reviews... |
What happens if Kinect cannot detect me properly?
A number of factors can contribute to Kinect not properly detecting you. First and foremost, not standing far enough away from Kinect makes it unable to see your entire body, which is required in order to function. Additionally, it may not be able to recognize your face when you wear a hat or if you are sitting down.
What else can Kinect do?
Outside of controlling Kinect-specific games, you can use your voice to load certain apps and control them. For example, saying “Xbox Dashboard” will load the Kinect hub on your console, while saying “Xbox Last FM” will load the Last.FM app. You can also video chat with other Kinect users on your friends’ list.
How does Kinect work?
Technologically speaking, an invisible light source illuminates the person who stands in front of the camera. The sensor chip then measures the amount of distance the light had to travel down to the last pixel. Unique software projects the image, allowing it to identify and perceive the object in real time, at which point it can react to your moves. Generally speaking, it works incredibly.
Can I still use Kinect if I cannot connect to the Internet to update my dashboard?
The Kinect device requires an update before you can use it; it is not a plug and play device. However, even if you cannot connect to the Internet normally, your Kinect device came with a Kinect video game that has the up to date software already on the disc. Insert the disc into your disc tray and the Xbox 360 console will automatically prompt you to install the update to your console in order to properly use your Kinect device.
Does Kinect use up any hard drive space?
As a peripheral, Kinect uses up about as much space as your other accessories: None.
What do I need to use video chat with Kinect?
Both users who want to use video chat with Kinect must have the Kinect sensor and an Xbox LIVE Gold membership. Then, go to “Video Kinect” underneath “My Community.” If you have not already done so, you must download the software. If you have, it will bring you to the application where you can pick a friend to chat with.
How can I talk to my party with Kinect?
If you are in a party with Xbox LIVE friends, simply speak and the Kinect microphone will pick up your voice and transmit it.
What Kinect games are compatible with Xbox LIVE?
Any Kinect game that has online multiplayer features is fully compatible with Xbox LIVE.
What Xbox 360 applications are compatible with Kinect?
Many applications have a Kinect version for your convenience. These applications include Last.FM, Zune Marketplace, Netflix, Hulu Plus and ESPN. Please note, however, that the Kinect versions of these applications are not necessarily fully functional; for example, using Kinect with Netflix makes it impossible to search unless you use the controller.
Can you use a controller with Kinect?
While this is possible, all of the functions you need to perform in a Kinect-specific game are easily taken care of using the Kinect sensor. Other games, such as Forza Motorsport 4, allow you to join the two forces for a more realistic experience. In that game’s case, you could drive with the controller and tilt your head to view your rear-view mirror with more ease.
What is the difference between the Kinect bundle and the standalone device?
There is no major difference between the Kinect sensor you purchase by itself and the one you receive with the Xbox 360 S console bundle. The only difference is the inclusion of a power cable that is not required for the Xbox 360 S console but is required for the original Xbox 360 version.
How many players does Kinect support?
Most Kinect games can only support up to two players. While some games support up to four players, you generally must rotate with one player on Kinect at a time.
