Xbox 360 Kinect Beginner's Guide

I got the Xbox 360 Kinect this week and it has been a blast. You may be wondering if it is right for you and what to buy if it is. I thought I'd give an objective guide to Kinect.

Warning: If you do not have a room where you can at least 6 feet between you and the TV, don't bother buying the Kinect. You need plenty or room to play the Kinect, the more the better. I have a large room with plenty of space but yet it is still a tight squeeze for two people to play at the same time. If you have the room but you don't want to rearrange the furniture just for a gaming system, consider it anyway because it is worth it - it is that fun.

First thing you'll need is an Xbox 360, preferably one of the newer models that are "Kinect Ready". If you don't already own an Xbox 360 you can buy the Xbox 360 Kinect Bundle, otherwise you can just buy the Kinect.

Setting up the Kinect is a breeze. There is a quick start guide that will walk you through the set up process step by step. If you screw up you can always go back and try again.

There are a number of games you can buy for it. Thankfully, the Kinect comes with Kinect Adventures which is good enough to get started on and to get used to the system.

For those who are focused on fitness, the "game" to get is "Your Shape Fitness Evolved". This game really shines as an overall fitness regimen that will track your progress and keep you going. Even if you are in good shape the training programs will find any weakness you may have.

The best game for the system right now is Dance Central. It is basically dance Karaoke. Some guys may feel self conscious about playing it but it is surprisingly addictive so set aside your hang ups and just give it a shot. I just wish I had a game like this when I was into martial arts because it really teaches you to move.

Kinect Sports is another no-brainer purchase. It is fun and is probably the best motion sports game available today (move over Wii Sports).

Outside of the games I suggested, you should read reviews and do research before buy games for the system. There are a couple of real stinkers out there as with any new system. Then again, it depends on your taste.

Expect to have a good time playing the Kinect and expect other people to enjoy themselves as well, even non gamers. Also expect to be in pain after playing it for some time. It will be a good pain as you will have worked parts of yourself that you didn't know you had. As I sit writing this I can feel some pain in my shoulders, thighs, feet and ankles. Nothing serious, but enough to know I'm getting a workout. Still, I'm itching to play some more.