WSJ: Motion Sensitive Camera Coming for Xbox

Just a few weeks back, rumors hit a high about the possibility that Sony might introduce a motion sensing controller at E3. Similar rumors suggest Microsoft could also be developing some motion sensing equipment of its own and again, E3 could be a launchpad for the device.

This week the Wall Street Journal reports that Microsoft developing a new video camera for the Xbox 360 that will allow players to control games with the movement of their bodies. Citing anonymous sources, WSJ says that unlike the Wii’s controller-sensor combo, the Microsoft camera won't require users to hold any hardware to control on-screen action. Rather, the camera would sit near the television and capture when players move their hands, legs or head. This further confirms speculation that Microsoft purchased 3DV Systems for its ZCam tech.

E3 is shaping up quite nicely this year. If both Sony and Microsoft announce something like this, we could be in for a very interesting show. Who’s interested in Microsoft’s idea? We quite like the ‘no controller necessary’ angle. Let us know in the comments below!

  • Tindytim
    They do know the gimmicky control scheme isn't the only reason Nintendo is successful right?

    It's how they market to the ignorant, not what they market with. Make a commercial with some bright colors and a family friend approach with lots of people "having fun".
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  • dman3k
    We're one step closer to the holodeck.

    Now if we can get some start-up company to produce pr0n with motion movement controls using XNA Game Studio...
    Reply
  • No controller would kick a$$..
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  • Honestly, I'm not the kind of person that likes playing games without a controller. What I would like is a light gun for all of my fps shooters. That would be amazing.
    Reply
  • antilycus
    too little too late, this wont take off on 360 and should'be be compiled with whatever the next system is. Developers arent going to start making games for this.... ITS 3 (4 for 360) YEARS SINCE ITS BEEN RELEASED. Typically 1 year from now, they announce their new system...
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  • dman3k
    Antilycustoo little too lateConsidering how graphics on the X360 still look better than the graphics on the PS3 cause Sony's graphic library was "purposely designed" to be crappy, I dunno why you think that M$ would need to announce a new system within a year alienating its current user-base when it's still the top dog in the current console war graphically. Not to mention M$ still haven't announced their "slim" version of the X360.
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  • jecht
    It'll all come down to how well it works, and how well it's implemented. The Wii controls work just fine, but countless crappy games and a few great games testify to the fact that there's a right way and a wrong way to use a control system. Honestly, I don't expect this to catch on very well, as the Xbox is more oriented towards FPSs and RPGs, but who knows?
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  • jecht
    dman3kWe're one step closer to the holodeck.Now if we can get some start-up company to produce pr0n with motion movement controls using XNA Game Studio...
    Virtua Pr0n comes with a fleshlight/dildo controller!
    Reply
  • the_one111
    jechtVirtua Pr0n comes with a fleshlight/dildo controller!Ah Futurama at it's best.
    Reply
  • Doesn't this already exist? There's a camera motion controlled game already out that uses the current xbox camera.
    Reply