![]() ![]() It also doubles as a motion controller, though you'll need to pick up the aforementioned PS4 camera to track the PlayStation Move-esque LED on the gamepad's front edge. For instance, the PlayStation 4's DualShock 4 controller features a new share button (more on that later), and clickable touchpad area reminiscent of the PlayStation Vita's rear touch panel. The camera isn't likely to ever become as integral to the PlayStation 4 experience as the Kinect is to the Xbox One, but at least the PS4 costs less as a result.Īt first glance, each of the console's updated gamepads doesn't look too different from their predecessors, but there are some hidden gems here. By definition, developers making games that use the camera will be catering to a smaller subset of the overall user base. Although the company seems optimistic that interest in the peripheral will grow (it has included the PlayStation Eye-heavy Playroom tech demo with every console), its exclusion from the launch bundle divides the market. Because the microphone-equipped camera doesn't come standard with every console, the PS4's operating system only supports a handful of voice commands. Of course, this means developers will be less motivated to build experiences with the PlayStation 4 camera in mind. This isn't a bad move either - it unburdens uninterested users from a higher price tag, but still leaves them with the option of tacking it on later. ![]() The PlayStation 4 has a motion-tracking camera too, but owning it is strictly optional. ![]() Sure, it makes the console more expensive, but it also promises a richer experience for the price. The device even claims to be able to recognize users on the fly, signing you in as you boot up the Xbox One and greeting other users as they walk in the room. Phrases like "Xbox on" and "Xbox, play Titanfall" are offered as easy, natural ways of interacting with your console. More importantly, it let the company build a console interface littered with motion and voice control features, enabling users to turn their consoles on and off by simply speaking. ![]() By ensuring that every Xbox One owner has access to its proprietary motion sensor, Microsoft gives developers a reason to support it. This decision may burn the pocket of frugal gamers, but it's actually a clever move. That's right - the Xbox One's $500 price dwarfs the PS4's $400 sticker specifically because the next-generation Kinect sensor is included with every console. Speaking of Kinect 2.0, it bears mentioning that it's at fault for the console's price tag. Combined with the Xbox One's currently exclusive ability to play MP3s (as a Play To device, at least) and CDs at launch, and suddenly Microsoft's loss in 2007's format war doesn't seem like such a big deal. It's the company's play to make the Xbox your entertainment center's "Input One," but more importantly, it's just something the PlayStation 4 doesn't do. This includes voice commands, a channel guide, program search and the ability to create a favorites menu. Marrying the console's iconic interface with an IR blaster, the new Kinect sensor and an HDMI passthrough on the console's rear, the Xbox One allows you to control your cable box from its own dashboard. It sounds almost silly, but it's actually quite impressive. This feature was practically the headliner of the console's announcement: Watch your cable television through your Xbox interface. Of course, if it weren't for the Xbox One's live TV integration, the two platforms' media offerings would be pretty square. It's true that content can be purchased through the PSN store, and that both platforms promise to expand their partnerships in the coming months, but Microsoft is just offering a richer, more deeply integrated media experience. In addition to Microsoft's own video platform, the Xbox One features apps for ESPN, Fox Now, Machinima, The CW, TED, the NFL and will eventually have access to HBO Go (but not at launch). While both units offer access to streaming staples like Netflix, Crackle, Hulu Plus, VUDU, Amazon Instant Video and Redbox Instant, the Xbox One simply has more content channels available. Someone at Sony is surely chuckling over the Xbox One's inclusion of a Blu-ray drive, but when it comes to media, Microsoft has the last laugh. While Redmond certainly deserved the ribbing, its point stood firm: If your game console isn't a capable media device, you're doing something wrong (we're looking at you, Nintendo). In fact, the console's announcement was widely panned for having an overbearing focus on television and media consumption. Although Microsoft is currently fighting in what we call a "video game console war," gaming isn't the Xbox One's only focus. ![]()
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