Since Google is targeting its main market sector, operating systems, Microsoft is trying to come up with intriguing new technologies. One of them has the codename “Project Natal”. The project aims to change the way games are played and, most of all, the way people play their original games. It is mainly based on gesture recognition technology and has the potential to literally rock the world of gaming.

For example, playing Ricochet can be more interesting than expected. You must give everything you have to stop the balls from passing you. You really feel like a goalkeeper! It is also good for your health as it implies a lot of physical exercise. “Since I started working on this project, I’ve lost almost like 10 pounds,” – Kudo Tsunoda, general manager of Microsoft Game Studios and creative director of Project Natal. “We’re going to have the most in-shape development team you’ve ever seen.” he said.

Microsoft demonstrated Natal at this year’s E3 trade show. However, the company didn’t state when this impressive technology will be available. From what they said, it looks like Natal will be part of the Xbox 360 console, like an add-on. Aside gaming, the technology can be used to navigate through menus and perform other tasks on the Xbox 360 console without even touching the controller. “For a lot of people that can be intimidating,” Tsunoda said. “You don’t really know what to do and you’re starting to feel stupid and everyone is looking at you and you are not being successful. That’s really not a good first way to interact with our console.”

It looks like the new technology will provide new thrilling experiences. “Even the folks who are hard-core Halo or Splinter Cell players, they are also going to want to play Natal games,” – Robbie Bach, Entertainment Unit President.