what is project natal

[Specter]

what is project natal?

[Zak]

It's a new microsoft controller device for the Xbox 360:

No Strings (or Controllers) Attached.

Introducing Project Natal, a revolutionary new way to play: no controller required. See a ball? Kick it, hit it, trap it or catch it. If you know how to move your hands, shake your hips or speak you and your friends can jump into the fun -- the only experience needed is life experience.

Xbox.com | Project Natal

[Zak]

Also see here:

Project Natal - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Project Natal (pronounced "na-tal" (IPA: [naˈtal])) is the code name for a "controller-free gaming and entertainment experience" by Microsoft for the Xbox 360 video game platform. Based on an add-on peripheral for the Xbox 360 console, Project Natal enables users to control and interact with the Xbox 360 without the need to touch a game controller through a natural user interface using gestures, spoken commands,[1] or presented objects and images. The project is aimed at broadening the Xbox 360's audience beyond its typically hardcore base.[2] Project Natal was first announced on June 1, 2009 at E3 2009. Microsoft said that over a thousand software development kits began shipping to game developers that same day.[2]

Though Microsoft has not officially announced any price or release date projections for Project Natal,[2][3] it is expected to be released in late 2010.[4][5][6][7][8] Project Natal will reportedly also serve as the basis for a "new" Xbox 360.[fn 1]

[Specter]

Thanks, sounds very cool

When is it released?

[Zak]

Microsoft has not announced a release date yet. It is expected to come out late 2010 though (see wikipedia)

[Specter]

Nice, can't wait, thanks for the information!

[Zak]

You're welcome!

Definetly sounds like a very interesting project.

[kangaroo]

Here is a demo from youtube:

[Aoe]

How much will it cost?

[Zak]

According to this article:

Brier Dudley's blog | E3: Microsoft Xbox throws down gauntlet with "Natal" controller | Seattle Times Newspaper

It will cost around $200

[Sentry]

Big projects like this always get delayed, probably come out on 2011

[Erozion]

Microsoft will probably aim to release it in time for christmas 2010

[Epsilon]

Is project natal intended more for casual or hardcore gamers?

[Jeff81]

Is project natal intended more for casual or hard core gamers?

I read an interview in the 360 magazine with microsoft researcher johnny chung lee. He says its intended for both casual and hardcore players.