In an attempt to maintain a low price point for their much-anticipated motion control technology, Project Natal, Microsoft has decided to remove a chip from the hardware and use software in its place, GamesIndustry.biz reports.
This decision shifts the processing of the tech’s “bone system” onto one of the Xbox 360’s three Xenon processors. Yesterday, it was reported that Natal would use between 10 and 15 percent of the 360’s CPU. Whether that number takes into account the chip removal isn’t clear, but it seems likely.
Microsoft says that removing the chip will streamline updates, and, most importantly, keep the price down. This decision also pretty much puts the nail in the “Natal retrofitted games” coffin. Although, on the upside, this means that developers will now be more inclined to pursue new projects, rather than spending time retreading over old material just to incorporate Natal support.
Microsoft revealed during their keynote address at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show this week that Project Natal will be released this holiday season.
Do you care if old games aren’t rereleased with Natal support?
Source: GamesIndustry.biz
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Milo 92
I have a feeling that "Project Natal" will be coming out Novemeber 23, 2010. Now I come with one freaking great reason why I think that day and that reason is xbox 360 turns five years old the day before and xbox is always setting dates for games and items close like most halo games came out in Septemeber a few days apart. I have a feeling its going to be NOVEMEBER 23,2010 what do you guys think?
roninspirit
Their attempt at making original Xbox games backwards compatible with the 360 was pretty underwhelming, resulting in audio-visual glitches that sucked the fun out of a lot of my favorite games from last gen, so I'd say this was pretty much expected. Anyway, I'm not really expecting to play current games with Natal. As something that's meant to extend the life of the console, I want to see the new stuff that comes out for it. Replaying Burnout with an air wheel isn't something I want to do.
dracoraptor
I personally would like the extra chip even if it requires that I wait another year to buy it, However the ps3 remote seems the right way togo because then I can get my fabled LIGHT SABER.
SavageHunter
I think that everyone is being too hard on PS3's motion controller and Natal. I think just because one thing failed miserably that doesn't mean the rest of them will. Thats like meeting one guy who punches you in the face, and then assuming everyone is going to punch you in the face, its unreasonable. Think with logic and you'll see there's a chance that these are good viable ways of playing game, even if the outlook its kind of gimmicky and shady. Stay positive and stay vigilant, maybe the games they come out with will be good. Don't keep your hopes real high though. People in general have a habit of creating disappointing "innovations."
I've also noticed, while I love both my consoles dearly (wouldn't it be great if we could get to a point where I didn't have to say that anymore to not be labelled a fanboy?) Natal seems to catch a lot more crap than Sony's Motion Controls. Maybe its because its shorter and easier to type...
JOKERNJ732
I would like to know how much it is before i get excited. if its more than a hundred i'm really not that interested. i'm probably only gonna get this if my fav games use it as another part of the game while the controller is still used. i cant see this being useful in games like call of duty
Patriculus1989
I don't have 360, but Natal seems pretty interesting. Yes, it is a bit gimmicky, but I don't believe every game that comes out will be Natal-only. there will most likely be options to turn it on or off. If you don't like the idea of Natal being used in Gears, Halo or Fable, then don't use it. Yes, they will make tons of those mini-game games, but there will still be your hardcore games to play.
Same with the new PS3 controller. I think LittleBigPlanet is going to be adding it into their game, but it isn't going to MAKE you use it. You will still be able to use your regular controller.
If you don't like the idea of Natal, then don't buy it. There will still be your classic Halo and classic Fable to play. As for the PS3 motion-controller, its the same. Games might encourage you to use it because it makes it a lot more fun, but they will give you a choice and its going to be the same either way.
typhoon_2099
No Halo 3 Natal support? Nooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!
Man I wish that it was easier to be sarcastic on the internet.
P.S. Profanity warning for writing "wish" followed by the word "it"? That's a bit drastic isn't it?
PCTech714
An excessive number of PS3 owners on here. Who could possibly complain about this product otherwise? If you're a 360 user and don't want Natal then don't buy it!
Of course, this could just be another one of those threads where people who feel they haven't reached their quota of whining decide to post...
Hell, people; the finished product isn't even close to release. Why don't you wait another 6 months or so before passing judgment?
Ricky_K
I dont care if old games dont have natal support. i dont think halo would work out for me on natal controls. ;)
GamebustaZX
I would rather they keep the other chip I rather pay a higher price than pay a cheap price and get a cheap product
tyler4307
it's a little upsetting that old games won't be fitted to work with it, but i, as well as all other 360 ers out there should have no problem getting over i'm sure there will be plenty of great content on it. i've heard Fable 3 will be compatible with it( i'm sold right there!) and if what i'm hearing is true that Fable 3 may launch at the end of the year it makes me wonder if it may end up being available at the launch of Natal. anyway, i am very excited for this device and can't wait for it! it seems far more advanced than Sony's attempt at motion control
BaneRuleOfTwo
@EKG, I think your forgetting that Sony is releasing their own motion control device which looks like a slightly improved Wii-mote. So both the 360 and PS3 are going to be at risk of being flooded with mini-game and shovel-ware titles.
MasterNoble6
Natal may actually take some interactivity out of games, also I wonder how submerssed i could be in a game empty handed?
EKG
I can't wait until the store shelves are cluttered with xbox 360 Mini Game Collections and cheap rushed garbage Wii Knockoff Games. It is going to be fun and sad at the same time to watch the 360 crash and burn under a flood of casual games the system was never made for in the first place.
It will be fun to watch because it angers me that Microsoft has started to turn their backs on the Hardcore crowd by releasing Natal that anyone with a half of a brain that knows it is going to turn into a rushed and crappy casual game heaven.
It is sad because the 360 used to be the ultimate Hardcore system, but now that Microsoft is going after the allusive casual crowd (a crowd they will never get) we have to say goodbye to what was one the king.
Thank god I still got my PS3.
Jabman0025
I have yet to see anything that makes me want to buy NATAL, and the thought of eating up more of my 360's memory really doesn't help. I am still very warry of putting down cash for NATAL. Microsoft has a lot of convincing to do.
Sawblood45
On the subject of Natal, there better be some Gears of War motion... chainsaw motion. And Microsoft whether it's powered by software or hardware, just do whatever you need to do to show the world what the bottom of an avatar's shoe really looks like!
cryfordawn
WE DONT WANT ANOTHER WII
The Emperor's Champion
I think Natal is a major error in judgment. Wii was a big step in a weird direction and has suffered from leaping face first into unproven grounds but at least it still maintained a kinship with what everyone knows how to play and develop for. The EyeToy and PlayStation Eye have both already done what Natal is attempting and with no notable success. Natal is crossing the familiarity bridge and burning it behind them, so they're going to take an even more brutal hit in the availability of decent games.
Sony's new doohicky on the other hand is going the smart route. Now that developers are FINALLY working out some of the quirks of motion controller based games it seems as tho the Sphere/Gem is destined to benefit from that experience and provide an even more powerful version of a platform that is (at least partially) understood. So any games they've ever wanted to make but couldn't due to limited power on the Wii they may be able to make now on the PS3. Plus, IF the Wii ever comes out with some awesome non-Nintendo game it has an opportunity to have a spin-off or sister game on PS3.
Penetrator72
I've already sold my old games. Why? Because I keep moving forward and buying newer and better ones. Looking forward to Natal games. Couldn't care less about replaying my old games with Natal.
losingreality7
For it to matter we need to see something that actually can't be done with a controller and for it to be fun while playing games WE play. Not grandma's and non-gamers. Yes its crucial to have everyone play to make money but don't sacrifice the regulars.
Capcom bashed the Wii for it and its true. So far nothing to stand tall on. With Sony they straight out said it should be implemented into regular games... hope is there.
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