First game for new Chinese console revealed

The first confirmed game for a forthcoming new console to be released in China later this year has been revealed, according to technology blog Engadget.

Flyimal - created by motion capture specialist Mixamo - will be one of the first titles to be launched for the platform, and will be powered by the Unity 3.1 game engine.

Although the official identity of the console is still shrouded in secrecy, it's understood to be called the eBox, and will feature a motion-based control system not unlike Microsoft's Kinect device.

A video promoting the new game has appeared on YouTube, with Mixamo staff demonstrating the hands-free gameplay experience, while a blog post on developer's website outlined the main points.

"In the first half of 2011 the first Asian game console will be launched in China integrating 3D camera technology included with every unit," it read. "'Flyimal' by Mixamo, shown in the video, is one of the first games due to be released.

"The game uses the Unity game engine in what is the first integration between Unity and the Omek Interactive 3D sensor SDK. The game takes advantage of the latest game engine optimization and performance improvement with Unity 3.1. Mixamo - the developer of the game - is an online service for animation and motion capture technology leader which has early this year acquired resources to create games using 3D camera sensors.

"Mixamo and Unity Technologies are working together in leading the democratisation process of game development."

Currently, videogames consoles are banned for sale in China, although GamesIndustry.biz understands that the eBox will be receive an exemption from the ban shortly before it is due to launch.

The precise launch date for the console, created by Lenovo and Eedoo, is yet to be revealed - along with official details on identity and pricing - but it's expected to be in the first half of 2011, with more details to follow in the next couple of months.