Microsoft’s E3 Revelation – Project Natal

Microsoft demonstrated a new camera-based console controller that could have some truly groundbreaking potential, depending on execution of course. I feel like my Nintendo Wii is a let down with clumsy “waggle” controls that are often more complicated (and less ergonomic) than a game pad. I sort of gave up on the Wii awhile ago but have not read of any games truely making use of the controls in an innovative or engaging way. Every time I turn around they’re trying to push a new peripheral which isn’t confidence inspiring. To speak nothing of the comparatively awful graphics.

Enjoy MS’s launch of Natal. The first video is their somewhat cheesy marketing video, the second is Peter Molyneux’s compelling Milo demonstration and last is the live demo. The live demo is long and somewhat boring but the actual demonstrations themselves are exciting and provide a glimpse into what’s possible.

Matt Peckham at PC World (and many others) have some criticisms of the approach, but I think they’ve missed an important angle. You could combine the camera control with more traditional controls for an incredibly immersive experience. I foresee pointing at locations on the screen and talking orders to AI squads to control them and interact with the environments while being able to get the proper feedback from physical controls. You could get “mouselike” performance for RTS games. Imagine the elements that could be added to rythym games if could track everyone’s movements! Truely I think Milo demonstrates the possibilities for RPGs.