Microsoft Sells 2.5 Million Kinect Cameras In 25 Days

No one actually doubted that motion gaming was popular. Nintendo sold through tons of Wii consoles, and for over year there was a consumer shortage. In fact, the movement was so noticeable that both Sony and Microsoft decided to embark on a journey of their own to embrace motion gaming. Sony chose the Move, and Microsoft chose Kinect.

They're different strategies for sure. Kinect uses no controller at all, whereas Move uses a Wii Remote-esque scheme. So, how has the public reacted to using their bodies as the controller? Quite well. Microsoft just put out a press release stating that 2.5 million Kinect cameras have been sold to date, with a strong Black Friday credited for a large boost in sales. 2.5 million units sold in 25 days, not bad! Though, leading up to a holiday hasn't hurt things…

The real question is how sales will continue into the new year. Are there enough Kinect titles out there to keep people interested or get them hooked to begin with? As with most everything, the software support largely dictates the outcome.

Xbox 360 Surpasses 2.5 Million Kinect Sensors Sold
Consumers and retailers show excitement for Kinect for Xbox 360.

REDMOND, Wash. — Nov. 29, 2010 — Microsoft Corp. today announced that strong demand over the Black Friday weekend has propelled retail sales of Kinect for Xbox 360 to more than 2.5 million units worldwide since it launched just 25 days ago.

“We are thrilled about the consumer response to Kinect, and are working hard with our retail and manufacturing partners to expedite production and shipments of Kinect to restock shelves as fast as possible to keep up with demand,” said Don Mattrick, president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. “With sales already exceeding two and a half million units in just 25 days, we are on pace to reach our forecast of 5 million units sold to consumers this holiday.”

“Kinect on Xbox 360 was a top performer at Target this weekend,” said Nik Nayar, vice president, merchandising, Target. “We expect Kinect will be a must-have gift this holiday season, so Target will continue to receive consistent shipments of Kinect throughout December. The hands-free, active gaming experience that Kinect offers is something that everyone in the family can enjoy.”

Kinect is now available at more than 60,000 retailers in 38 countries. It is the only controller-free games and entertainment system available that lets you control games, movies, music and television with gestures and your voice. Retailers, reviewers and analysts are calling it a must-have gift this holiday season.

More information on Xbox 360 and Kinect for Xbox 360 is available at http://www.xbox.com/Kinect or http://www.facebook.com/xbox.