We have featured a number of great Kinect hacks here on Geeky Gadgets since Microsoft launched its new motion controller, but this new Kinect hack created by the University of South California’s Institute for Creative Technologies is definitely one for all World of Warcraft players.
The Kinect hack allows you to take control of your WoW character using gestures, immersing you even further into the gameplay. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
The technology used is based on a tool kit they created called the Flexible Action and Articulated Skeleton Toolkit (FAAST) and has been designed to help drive rehabilitative “games” to restore motor function.
FAAST allows them to control the Kinect’s motion-sensing and translate into any code they desire on the fly and they couldn’t resist showcasing the toolkit by adding it to the frontend of WoW.
How FAAST Enhances Gaming Experience
FAAST, or the Flexible Action and Articulated Skeleton Toolkit, is a middleware that facilitates the integration of full-body control with various applications. Originally designed for rehabilitation purposes, FAAST has found a unique application in the gaming world. By leveraging the Kinect’s advanced motion-sensing capabilities, FAAST can translate physical gestures into in-game actions. This not only makes the gaming experience more immersive but also opens up new possibilities for accessibility in gaming.
For instance, players who may have difficulty using traditional controllers can now engage with games using natural body movements. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with physical disabilities, offering them a more inclusive gaming experience. Moreover, the toolkit’s flexibility means it can be adapted for various games and applications, not just World of Warcraft.
Practical Applications Beyond Gaming
While the integration with World of Warcraft is impressive, the potential applications of FAAST extend far beyond gaming. In the field of rehabilitation, for example, FAAST can be used to create interactive exercises that help patients regain motor function. These exercises can be gamified to make the rehabilitation process more engaging and enjoyable, thereby improving patient outcomes.
Educational applications are another exciting avenue. Imagine a classroom where students can interact with educational content through gestures, making learning more interactive and fun. FAAST could also be used in virtual reality (VR) environments to create more immersive training simulations for various professions, from medical training to military exercises.
The Kinect hack developed by the University of South California’s Institute for Creative Technologies showcases the incredible potential of the FAAST toolkit. By enabling gesture-based control in World of Warcraft, they have not only enhanced the gaming experience but also highlighted the broader applications of this technology. Whether in gaming, rehabilitation, education, or training, FAAST offers a versatile and powerful tool for integrating motion-sensing capabilities into various applications.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for FAAST and similar toolkits. The future of interactive technology is bright, and the possibilities are limited only by our imagination.
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