Microsoft’s Project Natal is expected to retail for $149, according to a trusted source that has leaked the price information to Edge Online. This is not the first time this source has leaked information, and previous leaks have apparently been accurate. This information ties up with a recent leak from a Scandinavian retailer’s website, which published the price at around $191.
The unofficial $149 price is for a standalone Project Natal device, but it is also believed that the system will be available as an Xbox 360 Arcade bundle for $299.
Project Natal: A Revolutionary Gaming Experience
Project Natal, which is expected to revolutionize the gaming experience, is a motion-sensing input device developed by Microsoft for the Xbox 360 video game console. Unlike traditional gaming controllers, Project Natal uses a camera and depth sensor to track the player’s movements and translate them into in-game actions. This allows for a more immersive and interactive gaming experience, where players can control games using their body movements, gestures, and even voice commands.
The Edge Online source also confirmed that when the device is released in October 2010, it won’t be named Project Natal. The official name will be announced at this year’s E3 exhibition next month. Speculation is rife about what the final name will be, with some suggesting it could be called “Kinect,” a name that has been circulating in various gaming forums and industry discussions.
Anticipation and Market Impact
The anticipation for Project Natal is palpable, with gamers and industry experts eagerly awaiting its release. The device is expected to have a significant impact on the gaming market, potentially drawing in a new demographic of casual gamers who may have been intimidated by traditional gaming controllers. By offering a more intuitive and accessible way to play games, Project Natal could expand the gaming audience and increase the overall market for Xbox 360 consoles and games.
Moreover, the potential applications of Project Natal extend beyond gaming. The technology could be used for various other purposes, such as fitness training, virtual reality experiences, and even interactive educational tools. For instance, fitness games could provide real-time feedback on a player’s form and technique, making workouts more effective and engaging. Similarly, educational programs could use motion-sensing technology to create interactive learning experiences that make complex subjects more accessible and enjoyable.
The pricing strategy for Project Natal is also a topic of interest. At $149 for the standalone device, it is priced competitively compared to other gaming peripherals. The $299 Xbox 360 Arcade bundle, which includes the Project Natal device, offers an attractive option for new customers looking to enter the Xbox ecosystem. This pricing strategy could help Microsoft capture a larger share of the gaming market and compete more effectively with other gaming consoles, such as the PlayStation and Nintendo Wii.
The upcoming release of Project Natal is set to be a game-changer in the world of interactive entertainment. With its innovative motion-sensing technology, competitive pricing, and potential applications beyond gaming, Project Natal is poised to make a significant impact on the market. As we await the official announcement of its name and further details at the E3 exhibition, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking device.
Via Edge Online
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