Get Kinected!

Hello Everyone.

Next to talk about is the Microsoft Kinect add-on for the Xbox 360 game console. It's not new. It's been out for about a year and a half now. It is a small camera that sits on top of your tv and connects to your Xbox 360.

Whats it do? Well it is a motion activated controller. Or rather, "YOU", are the controller! With the Nintendo Wii, you must hold a wireless controller in your hand or stand on a mat or device on the floor. With the Kinect, you don't need any of that extra equipment. And your free to roam in a larger area while playing the games designed for the Kinect. There are plenty of games to choose from. Driving,dancing, virtual pet and sports games, where you and an opponent can compete against each other. I love the bowling game. And I don't have to worry about throwing my controller at my tv or a loved one by mistake. (see You Tube for some funny videos on that subject)! Playing games is so much fun this way, but it's not going to replace a regular controller for those Call of Duty missions.

But my current favorite game isn't really a game at all. It's called "Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012". It is an exercise program. Let me tell you, it is quite the work out and fun to boot. You get an on screen personal trainer that stands next to you on the screen. That's right, your image is on the big screen. The Kinect actually scans your body at the start so it knows who you are and any one else who may use it.

The Kinect can see everything you do down to little finger motions. Even in the dark! So when you are in a work out, if you are not following correctly, the program can tell you what to do to correct. There are visual and sound cues and upbeat music to get you reved up. Plus you earn points and awards for your effort. Your progress, including calories burned, is kept and tracked at all times and is accessible on the web and with your Smart phone. There are ton's of exercises from jumping virtual rope, to toning, sit ups, kick boxing and an Army Boot camp section. ( I'm scared to try that, but I will!). You can also purchase more content to keep it fresh. I belong to a local gym, but when I use this program, I am more motivated and get a better workout.

The Kinect can also control your Xbox by voice as well as hand motions. Check out the video below to see it in action. And a Kinect controller is coming out for the PC next.  If you have an Xbox 360 get this, its cool.

Check out this link, And no, that's not me in the video!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9Ba6FhnpyQ

Next cool game release I am waiting for is Kinect Star Wars! Yep, I'll be swinging my virtual light saber and using force powers like a Jedi.

Move over Obiwan Kenobi. The force is with me.