Fallout 3 head developer Ashley Cheng has suggested that Microsoft let developers loose on it’s Application Programming Interface (API) in a bid to really open up the full potential of Natal. The Bethedsa employee thinks that Natal has almost endless possibilties beyond games and that app developers and not just game developers should be allowed to tinker with it. Cheng remarked:
“Microsoft should open the NATAL API up like Apple does with the iphone/ipad. Let anyone make a NATAL “app.” I bet someone makes a killer app that has nothing to do with gaming”
Project Natal - A Shot Across The Bows
We agree, come on Bill, let ‘em have it, isolationalism will stifle Natal development. Look what Apple did with iPhone apps.
What do you think, what non-game apps would you like to see with Natal?
Steve Q
{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }
I think Microsoft will be surprised what people will come up with once this little unit comes out.
I can’t wait for natal to come out, I’m definitely going to get it, probably for free.
what are you on about, for free?
I agree…there is a ton of other potential for Natal. Perhaps a whole new computer interface based on gestures. That has been a major hurtle on putting the internet on your living room tv…this could change all of that.
They would be stupid not to do this, and the sooner the better. Just thinking of the possibilities–I wonder if you could chat with a keyboard made out of thin air!
This is incredible! If it does open up like their claiming I am curious to see what will actually come out of it – as the post said above, it could be endless possibilities in a sense. Maybe some more decent concepts will come out of it anyways.
Im so excited about this new system, I had the old xbox and it broke so as soon as the new xbox 360 slim comes out im going straight to buy it! This new natal looks ace me and all my friends are going to as well.
Well, I do hope project natal comes soon enough. I’ve been waiting for years to get a piece of this amazing game console!
came across this blog since I’ve been waiting for this new console to appear and I agree that they should open up the code – everyone benefits from open source
yes we’re all waiting in eager anticipation for natal. but it will be far more popular if as you point out MS open it up for API developers to really push the boundaries. either way really looking forward to natal’s release.
(my company is working with primesense as well for our touch and 3D apps.)
Me too I can’t wait for this game to be available, I agree that anyone can benefit from open source.
Imagine a web browser that you can control with your hands (entering URL’s using the controller/USB keyboard)
but moving tabs, ‘clicking’ links and so on are done with your hands. eg. moving your hand left to switch over to the tab to the left. could be a nice idea!
Looks like a really cool game. I think it would do games that edge they need if Bill gave them total control.
This new system, is really worth the wait, the new xbox 360 slim probably will come in various concept that’s why this new natal looks ace is going to be a blast!