xBox 360 Kinect for Kids

Christmas morning our family will be jumping in our family room. You see, we bought Microsoft's Kinect to go with my xBox. On Christmas morning, we will open the device and give a game to each of the kids (although I suspect that Benjamin may not be able to play much at first, being only 19 months and all).

Here's a little preview:


Microsoft achieved their success with their controller by using an infrared emitter and camera. By going infrared, the camera does not have to contend with external light sources as much, thereby increasing its accuracy.  Awesome use of physics and intense data processing (two of my favorite subjects), to make a really cool/fun/entertaining device.  I can even see some potential for training - maybe helping golfers with their swing, fitness people with correct yoga moves, or dancers with correct footing.

The three games we bought are Kinectimals, Kinect Sports, and Kinect Adventures, the last of which comes prepackaged with the device.  I'm sure all of my kids will love these games.  Thomas and Tara already love playing board games.  But especially Thomas, who is a high energy kid and likes physical action, I expect will become addicted.  A game...that is physical...that he can enjoy from the comfort of the family room...  the boy will be in heaven.

And recently, I just learned that a Stars Wars game is in the works for Christmas 2011!  I can be the Jedi I always knew was inside me.