Natal will relaunch 360 on release

Microsoft Game Studios boss Phil Spencer has told MCV that the new Project Natal controller will effectively relaunch the 360 when it is released.

Speaking to MCV in an exclusive interview, Spencer likened the arrival of the camera-based kit – which senses player movements and requires no physical games controller – to the launch of a new system.

When Natal comes out it will feel like a new generation has arrived,” he said. I see it as like the launch of the Xbox 360 back in 2005 – there will be a launch portfolio of games to support it.”

Spencer also rubbished the idea of launching new console hardware onto the market, saying the format holder was happy with the positioning of the multi-SKU 360.

Consumers don’t want another $400 box right now. We want consumers and developers to know that we are all going to make a huge return on that original investment in the 360 hardware – the one Microsoft made in building it, the one developers made in making games for it, and the investment consumers made in buying it.

"In the current climate that’s something people are going to appreciate.

That’s why we are just adding functionality [with Natal] and broadening the console’s appeal, with the best games. The mix we have of content, software and hardware is perfect.

And it’s only year four for the 360. Look at the history of the industry, when does that happen? When before has there been a console that hasn’t peaked and is still growing in its fourth year?"

To read MCV’s full interview with Phil Spencer, click here.