Making “Kinect”ions

Last week, Xbox strategically timed the reveal of their brand new controller-free entertainment experience right before the start of E3.  With a performance imagined by Cirque that captivated audiences, the world witnessed an innovation in gaming and entertainment.  Kinect for Xbox 360 will transform the way you think about gaming.  Not only will it get you off the couch, it will put you right in the midst of the experience.  Run, jump, dance, and connect Kinect right in the comfort of your home.

The audience cheered when it was announced that the company would be bringing Star Wars to Kinect in 2011.  Disney also has plans on bringing a bit of magic to Kinect.  Kinect Adventures, Kinectimals, Kinect Joy Ride, Kinect Sports, Dance Central, and Your Shape:  Fitness Evolved are a sampling of the games that will be offered this November (2010).  And because I’ve had the opportunity to play some games on the system, I can tell you that it’s intuitive.  Once you step in front of the sensor, it will recognize and respond to your gestures and listen to your voice.

Kinect is more than a simple gaming system and will work with every Xbox 360. The Kinect Hub will allow you the ability to access your favorite movies, TV programs, music, and more in one location.  Video Kinect will open up a world of connection with distant friends and family members.

Pricing has yet to be released for Kinect but is set to debut this November 2010.

No compensation was received for this post.

Kinect for Xbox 360…Coming November 2010

Last night I had the privilege of attending the World Premiere of Kinect for Xbox 360 (formerly titled Project Natal).  Cirque du Soleil created a performance, specifically for Kinect, which will air on Tuesday, June 15, at 3:30 pm ET on MTV and at 9:00 pm ET on Nick at Nite, mtvU, MTV Hits, and Logo.  The event was technology-free, so I don’t have pictures or video footage of the actual performance (which was amazing) but you can see a few pictures on the Xbox site.

What I can tell you is that Kinect is the latest innovation in gaming and entertainment.  Controllers and remotes?  They’re so yesterday. Kinect, set to debut this November, puts you in the game…literally.  No longer will you  or I be sitting on the couch detached from the experience.  Once you step in front of the sensor on the system, Kinect will recognize you and respond to your gestures.  It also recognizes your voice (oooh!). Run, jump, dance, and kick…the game is more like an experience.  And…it’s so. much. fun.

Playing it is actually easier than I expected as it’s highly intuitive.  If you know how to kick, jump, and run…you can play it! Stay tuned…this is just the beginning of what’s to come this November.

Photo credit:  Xbox

No compensation was received for this post. I was invited to a media preview of Kinect, courtesy of the company.

Controller-Free Gaming

I have to admit that I am a total gamer.  I used to carry a Game Boy with me when I was a child and I conquered the entire Super Mario Bros. trio.  I haven’t had a lot of experience with gaming consoles apart from Nintendo’s.  But I’m always open to new systems, games, and overall gaming technology (which is why you’ll see me at E3 this year).

A few weeks ago, I was invited by my friend Liz to check out a preview of Xbox 360′s brand new “Project Natal” (which is actually the code name since the official name has not been released).  Simply put, “Project Natal” is an innovative new way to game.  There are no controllers…unless you count yourself, since you are the controller.  The system has a sensor that “captures” your body in it’s space and recognizes it (including your face).  Your movements are then replicated on screen and the system can respond to your commands. Kick, hit, and dance your way to a new way to game.  “Project Natal” is still in development and will continue to be modified until it’s ready for it’s holiday release.  Stay tuned as I will be sharing more info as it comes.  For now…check out Stephanie and I testing out “Project Natal“:

No monetary compensation was received for this post.  I attended a preview event and received a FlipCam to record my experience.

Sports Authority Teams Up With Wii Fit Plus *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks so much for stopping by!  The winner is Chastidy.  Congrats!

If you’ve followed my blog, then you know that I used the Wii Fit to lose the baby weight before I got pregnant with our baby girl.  In fact, I now realize that those months when I felt like I wasn’t making any progress, were due to the fact that my body was creating a person!  Hehe!  I honestly think that the Wii Fit was and is an incredible innovation with regards to gaming and fitness.  Children (and adults) no longer have to sit on the couch, controls in hand, peeled to a screen.  I love the way the Wii Fit encourages movement, balance, and commitment to change.

Many of you may have heard that Nintendo has launched an updated version of the Wii Fit, called the Wii Fit Plus.  I can’t say I have personal experience with the updated version, however, the company has expanded on the original software to include new exercises and tools to personalize your fitness routine.  I’m hoping to upgrade mine soon (It’s around $20).

In addition, Jillian Michaels’ new Wii game “Fitness Ultimatum 2010” was just released for both the Wii and DS.  To celebrate, Sports Authority has teamed up with Nintendo to create a new way to experience fitness gaming.  On Thursday, November 19 (as in TOMORROW!), you can visit their Torrance, California store with a celebratory launch.  Here is a bit more information about how Sports Authority is collaborating withNintendo to create this experience:

To help customers get to know the Wii better, Sports Authority will create a “We know fit. We know fun.” experience at 102 of their stores. Stores will feature a dedicated area with a demo unit and knowledgeable trainers to help customers try the Wii and Wii Fit Plus before they buy.

Here are the details of the event:

Event Information:
Thursday, Nov. 19
Sports Authority store in Torrance (located at 3610 Torrance Blvd.), CA (just outside of Los Angeles, CA)
Event starts at 9:30 a.m. and runs until mid-day

Event Highlights:
· Jillian Michaels, from “The Biggest Loser,” will be in attendance.
· There will be the “world’s largest Wii Fit Plus” demonstration featuring 102 people. Jillian will be part of the demonstration, doing what she does best – showing folks how to get in shape!
· Lots of items to be given away, including copies of Jillian Michaels’ new Wii game “Fitness Ultimatum 2010“ and Wii Fit Plus boards, as well as other prizes from Sports Authority, Nintendo and Nike.

For more information, check out the Sports Authority site.

Now I know many of you don’t live in Southern California…although I’d love to see you at the event…so…

Win It! One of you will win a Wii Fit Plus Board AND a copy of Jillian Michaels‘ new Wii Game “Fitness Ultimatum 2010.”  Simply leave me a comment with one way you fit in exercise as a mom with children.  I need all the advice I can get!  Comments will close on December 3, 2009 at 10 PM PST.

One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

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