Does Just Dance Still Use Kinect? The Motion Tracking Saga Continues
No, Just Dance no longer utilizes the Kinect sensor on any Xbox consoles beyond the Xbox One. For newer consoles like the Xbox Series X/S, players must rely on the Just Dance Controller App on their smartphones. This marks a significant shift in how the game is played, moving away from dedicated motion-sensing hardware towards more accessible mobile technology. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this change, explore the current gameplay options, and answer some frequently asked questions.
The Kinect’s Journey and Just Dance
The Kinect was once a revolutionary piece of technology, promising controller-free gaming and a new level of immersion. Introduced initially for the Xbox 360, it gained popularity and was later integrated with the Xbox One. For many years, Just Dance leveraged the Kinect’s motion-sensing capabilities to track players’ movements and score their dancing prowess. However, the Kinect’s reign was not to last.
Microsoft discontinued the Kinect for Xbox One in 2017, signaling a shift in their gaming strategy. While the device found new life in other applications, particularly in the realm of Azure Kinect Developer Kit for depth sensing and computer vision, its gaming days were numbered. The lack of consistent software support and the rise of alternative technologies led to its eventual decline in the gaming market.
The Rise of the Controller App
With the Kinect’s demise on newer Xbox consoles, Ubisoft, the developer of Just Dance, had to find an alternative. The solution? The Just Dance Controller App. Available for both iOS and Android devices, this app uses the smartphone’s accelerometer and gyroscope to track player movements.
The Controller App offers several advantages:
- Accessibility: Most players already own a smartphone, eliminating the need for additional hardware purchases.
- Convenience: The app is easy to download and set up.
- Portability: Players can dance anywhere with their phone and a screen to display the game.
However, it also presents some drawbacks:
- Reliance on Smartphones: Players need a compatible smartphone to play.
- Accuracy Concerns: The accuracy of movement tracking may not be as precise as the Kinect.
- Potential for Interference: Phone calls or notifications can disrupt gameplay.
Despite these drawbacks, the Controller App is the primary method for playing Just Dance on Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 consoles.
The Nintendo Switch Exception
It’s important to note that the Nintendo Switch offers a different approach. Unlike the Xbox and PlayStation consoles, the Switch allows players to use the Joy-Con controllers for motion tracking. This provides a controller-free experience without relying on a smartphone app. This is a significant advantage for families or players who prefer not to use their phones during gameplay.
The Future of Motion Tracking
While the Kinect is no longer a factor in the Just Dance ecosystem, the desire for accurate and immersive motion tracking remains. Companies like Orbbec are developing alternative solutions, such as the Orbbec Persee, which is a standalone sensor with an integrated operating system and body-tracking SDK. These technologies may pave the way for future motion-sensing gaming experiences.
Games Learning Society and Interactive Gaming
The evolution of motion-tracking in games like Just Dance highlights the intersection of technology, education, and engagement. The Games Learning Society, found at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/, explores how games can be used as powerful tools for learning and development. Understanding the technological advancements and pedagogical implications of interactive gaming is crucial for educators and developers alike. These types of immersive games that use movement are great for all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the situation surrounding Just Dance and motion tracking:
1. Can I use the Kinect with Just Dance 2023 on Xbox Series X/S?
No, Just Dance 2023 does not support Kinect on the Xbox Series X/S. You must use the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone.
2. Which consoles support Just Dance without a phone?
The Nintendo Switch is the only console that allows you to play Just Dance without a phone, using the Joy-Con controllers for motion tracking.
3. Is the Just Dance Controller App free?
Yes, the Just Dance Controller App is free to download and use on both iOS and Android devices.
4. Why did Microsoft discontinue the Kinect?
The Kinect was discontinued due to a combination of factors, including lack of a killer app, inconsistent software support, and the emergence of alternative technologies.
5. What is replacing the Kinect?
Several companies are developing alternative motion-sensing technologies. One notable example is the Orbbec Persee, a standalone sensor with an integrated operating system and body-tracking SDK.
6. Can I use my PlayStation Camera with Just Dance 2023?
No, Just Dance 2023 is not compatible with the PlayStation Camera. You must use the Controller App on your smartphone.
7. Is Just Dance 2023 available on Xbox One?
No, Just Dance 2023 was not released for the Xbox One. It is only compatible with the Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch.
8. What happens if my phone rings while I’m playing Just Dance?
A phone call or notification can disrupt your gameplay. It’s recommended to put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode before starting Just Dance.
9. How accurate is the Just Dance Controller App?
The accuracy of the Controller App can vary depending on the phone’s sensors and the environment. While generally reliable, it may not be as precise as the Kinect.
10. Do I need an internet connection to play Just Dance?
An internet connection is required to download the game, access online features, and unlock additional content.
11. What is Just Dance+?
Just Dance+ is a subscription service that provides access to a vast library of additional songs and content for Just Dance.
12. Does Just Dance 2023 have a kids mode?
Just Dance 2023 has sadly removed the kids mode; however, there are child friendly song options.
13. What are the differences between the standard and ultimate editions of Just Dance 2023?
The standard edition of Just Dance 2023 comes with the base game, 40 included songs, and a one-month trial of Just Dance+. The Ultimate Edition includes the base game, 40 songs, the one-month trial, and an additional year of Just Dance+.
14. Can I use my old Kinect from the Xbox 360 on my Xbox Series X/S?
No, the Kinect from the Xbox 360 is not compatible with the Xbox Series X/S.
15. Is Just Dance 2023 the last physical release of Just Dance?
Yes, Just Dance 2023 is the final physical release. Future releases will be added through updates, switching to annual song packs.