Microsoft is reportedly experimenting with a tablet-like controller for its next-generation console.
Xbox World magazine claims that Microsoft's next Xbox console will include a Wii U-like touchscreen controller.
Based on info provided by unnamed sources, the magazine states that the next Xbox will be "a matt-black media hub with a mission to bring games to life in your living room with augmented reality, directional sound, and a four-player, finger-tracking Kinect."
Microsoft is reportedly experimenting with a tablet-like controller shape similar to Sony's PlayStation Vita rather than borrow Nintendo's Wii U "bulky unit." The article also describes the controller as to having an HD screen surrounded by the traditional buttons and sticks.
"That touchcreen will be second only to Kinect in how you operate your console," the magazine claims. "It could be a remote control when you're watching TV, a browser when you're on the internet, extra buttons and information when you're playing a game or a portable display when you want to take your game with you."
"Microsoft is playing it safe with the CPU and GPU but running wild with the functions that will change how you play, but it won't be cheap," the magazine adds.
GameSpot made a similar accusation last month, saying the next Xbox console will be tablet-based. It's speculated that a premium Xbox 720/Next/Loop setup could include a base station, a tablet, a conventional controller, and the recently discussed high-def evolution of the Kinect.
This could seemingly spell certain doom for Nintendo if Microsoft releases a more powerful console with a tablet-like controller. Also in Microsoft's cross-platform arsenal would be Windows 8 for desktops and notebooks, Windows 8 for tablets, and Windows Phone, seemingly backing Nintendo up into its little two-console corner.
The only reason touch screen is popular, is because gesturing is not easily implemented.
Touch screens are terrible if you're trying to look at something, as you are always obscuring your vision with your hand, and if you're not meant too look, buttons are more responsive, cheaper, durable and feelable.
What they should be working on is a headset screen combined with the kinect, so you can turn around in a game (unless ofc you have a screen encircling you), not pissing around with 'old' technology.
The only reason touch screen is popular, is because gesturing is not easily implemented.
Touch screens are terrible if you're trying to look at something, as you are always obscuring your vision with your hand, and if you're not meant too look, buttons are more responsive, cheaper, durable and feelable.
What they should be working on is a headset screen combined with the kinect, so you can turn around in a game (unless ofc you have a screen encircling you), not pissing around with 'old' technology.
I know Microsoft and Sony aren't stupid enough to follow Nintendo's lame duck console strategy and will still rely on old fashioned remotes for the foreseeable future....at least I hope or it'll be back to PC Gaming for this guy.
nintendo is always innovating and thats why i love them, go nintendo
Ok...good point. I could see those things as being useful.
This is why I would like the feature !!! But also think of sports games where each person can choose plays on thier controller, any player vs player game on one screen can benifit from it.
Translation: Microsoft will include an OLD and CHEAP CPU and GPU but will run wild with gimmicks instead of substance. It will also be gigantically Overpriced.
so you are basically saying its going to suck LOL
So, following Nintendos choices with the Wii U. Bah, this sucks for PC gamers if true, another 7+ years of console ports that don't even come close to using what's available. At least the 360 launched with what was modern on PC at the time, it came out between the Radeon x1800 launch and the x1900 launch. Even if Sony's console is much more powerful, we all know developers will aim for the lowest branch. If the 360 is really just 20% more powerful than the Wii U, I won't see much appeal in it other than a few exclusive games,assuming Nintendo gets the third party devs on board and gets online right.