Not to be outdone by the earlier news from Microsoft that they had sold 2.5 million Kinect motion controllers for the Xbox 360, Sony has announced that they have sold a total of 4.1 million PlayStation Move controllers since launch.
Sony is obviously keen to point out that they have sold more motion controllers for the PS3 than Microsoft has sold for the Xbox 360, but the PS3 Move went on sale back in September whilst Microsoft’s Kinect only went on sale in November.
Comparing Motion Controllers: PlayStation Move vs. Kinect
The PlayStation Move and Kinect represent two different approaches to motion gaming. The PlayStation Move uses a combination of a handheld controller and the PlayStation Eye camera to track the player’s movements with high precision. This setup allows for a wide range of motion-based gameplay experiences, from sports games to more intricate action titles. The Move controller itself features a glowing orb that changes color, which the camera tracks to determine the player’s position in 3D space.
On the other hand, Microsoft’s Kinect is a camera-based system that does not require any handheld controllers. Instead, it uses advanced sensors and cameras to track the player’s entire body movements. This allows for a more immersive experience where players can use their whole body to interact with the game. However, some critics argue that the Kinect’s lack of physical feedback can make certain types of games less engaging compared to the tactile experience provided by the PlayStation Move.
Market Strategies and Consumer Preferences
Sony’s strategy of requiring an additional controller for each player can be seen as both an advantage and a disadvantage. On one hand, it means that each player has their own dedicated controller, which can enhance the gaming experience by providing more precise control and feedback. On the other hand, it also means that consumers need to purchase multiple controllers if they want to play multiplayer games, which can be a significant additional expense.
In contrast, the Kinect’s single-controller approach simplifies the setup for multiplayer games, as only one Kinect unit is needed regardless of the number of players. This can make it more appealing for casual gamers or families who want a quick and easy way to play together without the need for multiple accessories.
Another factor to consider is the type of games available for each system. The PlayStation Move has a strong lineup of games that take advantage of its precise motion tracking, including popular titles like “Sports Champions” and “Beat Saber.” The Kinect also has a variety of games designed to showcase its full-body tracking capabilities, such as “Kinect Sports” and “Dance Central.” However, the Kinect’s game library has been criticized for lacking depth and variety compared to the PlayStation Move.
Additionally, the PlayStation Move has found a niche in the virtual reality (VR) market. The Move controllers are compatible with the PlayStation VR headset, providing an immersive VR experience that combines motion tracking with virtual environments. This has given the PlayStation Move a second life and has helped to maintain its relevance in the gaming market.
In conclusion, while Sony has sold more PlayStation Move controllers than Microsoft has sold Kinect units, each system has its own strengths and weaknesses. The PlayStation Move offers precise motion tracking and a strong game library, but requires multiple controllers for multiplayer games. The Kinect provides a more immersive full-body experience and a simpler setup for multiplayer gaming, but lacks the tactile feedback and game variety of the PlayStation Move. Ultimately, the choice between the two systems comes down to personal preference and the type of gaming experience you are looking for.
via Engadget
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