Microsoft has just revealed a motion-sensing and voice-recognising gadget for the Xbox 360.

Going by the name of Project Natal, it takes the form of a bar that comes equipped with depth sensors, microphones and cameras. It's believed that it will launch in 2010 and will cost approximately $200.

Microsoft say that the technology will be unlike anything we've ever seen on other consoles. Project Natal will even be able to recognise our faces and sign us into Xbox live automatically. Furthermore, it will recognise body motions as well as controller movements.

"This goes way beyond the Wii," said Microsoft Vice President Shane Kim.

Referring to an on-stage demonstration, Xbox Live's Major Nelson, writes on his blog.

bby has full control of her avatar just by moving her body.

• She can hit balls with her hands

• She can kick them with her feet • She can head butt the ball
• She can use her stomach and hips to keep the ball in play
• Any part of her body is part of the game and she has total control at all times

You've got to watch the demo of Prject Natal when it becomes available online and the Xbox Live Marketplace later today. It makes Wii's motion-sensing controller look pathetic.