Now that Microsoft’s Kinect has been out in the wild for a few months or so, it is certainly high time for clever programmers to test the possibilities of the tech. While most discoveries have been pretty revolutionary others have attempted to satisfy a baser instinct. For anyone who hasn’t heard, there have been some parties hard at work at creating simulation scenarios/games that reflect a sexual experience.

The idea of a sex game instantly became a topic of controversy and many wondered how Microsoft would respond. The main company in question, ThinXXX, was able to use Kinect software along with a PC to create motion controlled sex simulations. It looked like ThinXXX was going to challenge whether or not Kinect was designed as a casual technology very soon into its life cycle. Being the company inevitably responsible for what gets put on their console, Microsoft responded by saying:

"This isn't the first example of a technology being used in ways not intended by its manufacturer, and it won't be the last. Microsoft did not authorize or license its technology for this use. Xbox is a family friendly games and entertainment console and does not allow Adults Only (AO) content to be certified for use on its platform, and would not condone this type of game for Kinect.”

ThinXXX used the tech to create something that Microsoft was not happy putting on their console and therefore their work will be for naught.

With a technology as limitless as Kinect there are bound to be those companies that try to go for the cheap thrill or cater to a different type of consumer. Whether those companies stay true to Microsoft’s mission statement or the general mission statement of video games is a completely different matter altogether. It’s ultimately up to those responsible for certification of video games what gets sold in retail stores and what is shut down.

Certainly the idea of blocking a certain “genre” of game from being published because of its content might ruffle a few censorship feathers, but it ultimately is for the good of the gaming community at large. Kinect as a technology is meant to cater to the casual market. Sure, in due time there will be games that will be up there with Gears of War, but for now Microsoft and developers are keeping it casual. Eventually, maybe if done in a little better taste than the types of games seen recently, games of this ilk can find there way onto a 360 console. Either way it’s ultimately the certification board that has the final say.

What are your thoughts on Microsoft from preventing a sex game that uses Kinect? Is it within their purview to restrict the sale or development of these games or should it be up to the consumer who ultimately purchases the game to decide?

Source: IGN