Video Game of the Week – Nike+ Kinect Training

There were some excellent fitness video games before Kinect for Xbox 360 came along – Wii Fit Plus comes to mind – but to say that Microsoft’s body motion sensor has forever changed the genre would be an understatement. From dance-style games like Zumba Fitness to the outstanding Your Shape: Fitness Evolved 2012, Kinect provides the kind of interactive feedback you can only replicate with a $150 an hour personal trainer.

And now we can add another video game to that growing list of Kinect-based workouts with the exceptional Nike+ Kinect Training from Microsoft Game Studios.

A common problem with many fitness video games is that they assume a level of expertise or familiarity with routines that can be instantly off-putting for the out-of-shape beginner. Not so with N+KT, which goes out of its way to make sure that your workout program is specifically designed for you in terms of weight, shape, fitness level and, most importantly, your fitness goals. (Not everyone wants to train like a triathlete!)

The personalization extends to your choice of trainer, and the days of the week and times that suit you best. Once you are up and running, N+KT constantly assesses your performance and adjusts your workouts to make sure they stay challenging and fun. Over-achieve and N+KT will automatically adjust your goals and push you harder; under-achieve and N+KT will redesign your routines to get you back on track!

Progress is tracked through Fuel Print, a constantly updated history of your performances, which helps you establish both a benchmark for your workouts and the criteria for future goal-setting.

In a Facebook-dominated world, any fitness game would be remiss if it didn’t contain social elements that allowed you to share and compare your performances with family, friends and anyone else who might be interested. In this respect, N+KT doesn’t disappoint. You can take part in global challenges, see how you stack up against friends, and even receive praise and encouragement from top Nike athletes.

In many ways Nike+ Kinect Training transcends the fitness genre, demonstrating both the amazing potential of Kinect and the opportunities of a constantly networked world. If you can get fitter and healthier while enjoying the experience, then so much the better!

Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios

Platform: Kinect for Xbox 360

Genre: Sports, fitness

RRP: $49.99

ESRB Rating: E for Everyone

Release Date: October, 2012