Microsoft chose to unbundle the Kinect 2.0 device from the Xbox One back in May of this year, which is mainly due to the beating that the console is getting from the Sony PlayStation 4. It allowed the software company to bring the console's price down to $399, but that doesn't mean the company wants people to forget about the camera.
Some folks might be wondering if Microsoft will sell Kinect-standalone for $100 after it was ripped from the Xbox One, since the company only slashed the price by $100. Well, that's not the case, Microsoft announced today that Kinect for the Xbox will cost $150, and will go on sale this Oct. 7.
This is a big blow for those who might be considering a plan of purchasing the $399 Xbox One, then picking up the Kinect later for $100. For those who want the complete package, the best course of action right now is to save enough cash to get Xbox One with Kinect for $499. The alternative method means one would have to spend an extra $50.
Along with the Kinect, Microsoft has bundled Dance Central: Spotlight as a free digital download. However, it is not certain if the game will be a part of the package for a limited time, or if it is a lifetime deal.
By selling Kinect as a standalone package, Microsoft is trying to prove to gamers that it is still serious about the camera, and plans to support it throughout the life of the Xbox One.
Arguably, the Xbox One is a better console with Kinect attached, for there are several cool features that are not possible and less intuitive right now without the camera. For example, recording the last 30 seconds of a game is easier with Kinect, as the player can simply utter the words, "Xbox, Record That."
We have to say, Microsoft should have made this decision from day one, but lack of insight and maybe a little bit of smug have allowed the company to be in the position it is in right now. Chances are, the PlayStation 4 will continue dominating until the end of this generation, unless the Chinese market chooses to support the Xbox One.
