Differences Between PS3 Move and The Kinect

Nintendo were the first to introduce a motion controller way back in 2006. It was not doubt a trail blazer for years creating a niche of its own and winning over millions of fans. However this is no longer the case as this distinction has been erased by PlayStation and Microsoft releasing their own versions of a motion controller called the "Move" and "Kinect" respectively.

With the battle for supremacy raging between PlayStation and Microsoft I compare the PS3 move against the Kinect highlighting the differences between PS3 Move and Kinect.

Kinect is unique in its ability to picks up your body movement without a need to physically hold a controller. The Kinect consists of a webcam like camera (the Kinect Sensor) which has the ability to capture 3D movements, as well as facial and audio recognitions. Players interact with their console through a combination of well crafted User Interface and spoken commands. While a hands free motion controller is appealing to someone like me, other gamers will probably prefer a closer interaction with their gameplay which is where the Move excels.

The Move bears a similar resemblance to the Wii controller but differs in its capabilities (especially in the ability to track 3D movements). The Move consists of a motion controller wand and the PlayStation Eye camera used for tracking both the position and motion of the wand. Players interaction with gameplay is through the aid of buttons and not your body movements. I must say the Move lean towards hardcore gamers while the Kinect appears to be wooing families and casual gamers (there is also an additional controller called the PS3 Navigation controller which you may need to buy for some PS3 games).

Here are some of the things to consider when comparing the differences between PS3 Move and Kinect:

Distance from Camera: If you are thinking of buying the Kinect you must bear in mind that you need to be at least six feet from the Sensor for proper interaction (this is more of a challenge in the UK bearing in mind the way most homes are designed).

The PS3 Move is however less demanding as you must be at least three feet aways from the PlayStation Eye Camera. You need to also ensure that the distance between you and the motion controller is cleared of debris and objects to avoid running into them during gameplay. To optimise audio level when configuring the Kinect ensure the sensor is at least 1 foot from any sound sources.

Where to place the Camera: Both motion controllers can be placed on top or below your TV. However the Kinect require more space than PS3 Move. You will need to ensure that your play area is well lit from behind the motion controller and not in the front because the controllers don't react well to sunlight. In some cases you might need to buy a vertical stand.

Ease of Use: You will find the Kinect more easy to use after set up. The User Interface is well designed that any casual gamer can hit the ground running but learning how to use the PS3 Move controller buttons can be intimidating to any new comer. On the other hand the PS3 Move is more responsive to your movements than the Kinect.

Price Comparison: The Kinect is more expensive than the Move controller but can support two players. You will need to buy a second pair of controllers for the second player on PlayStation.

Games: There are not many PS3 and Xbox 360 games taking full advantage of these technology at the moment. However considering the fact that they are relatively new you can be sure that things will soon change.

The Kinect so far appears to be winning the war with record sales within the first few months of its release. To the neutral this is nothing more but a win win situation as we can be sure that this innovations will certainly pave the way for awesome gaming experiences in the future.