NBA Baller BeatsThe recently launched video game NBA Baller Beats for XBOX Kinect is the first ever motion-based sports video game that uses a real basketball during play. One NBA game ball replica from Spalding is included with purchase of the game.

Video games don’t replace real exercise/gym time but having a video game that incorporates actual motions can give you an incentive to get up and move.

This game is a great rhythm game and it is also a teaching tool for people who are looking to improve their dribbling skills. I haven’t played basketball in years and I found the moves in the game do require practice and some skill with a basketball.

Something worth mentioning about this game is that it requires a lot more “room” when playing than other games we have tried,  for the Kinect Sensor to register your movements you need to clear out some good space so the cameras can catch you.

You can choose your own skill level when you play and there can up to 8 players in a game. Great if you want to play with family and friends.

This games does require a hard surface to bounce the basketball. We had no issues with hardwood floors but it may be something to be aware of if you have carpet as the bouncing may feel different. If you can move your T.V. to a different room or if your garage or basement has other flooring it shouldn’t be a problem.

The game has a rating of ages 10+ and I do believe it is ideal for that age group. It is highly recommended to remove any breakables from the area before they start playing.

The soundtrack of the game includes 30 songs from artist like B.O.B, Chromeo, Gorillaz, LMFAO, Lady Gaga, Interpol, Cee-Lo Green and more. I personally enjoyed it and appreciated the edits to keep all lyrics age appropriate.

We really like the NBA Baller Beats game.  It definitively helps you improve your basketball skills and it is fun to use a real basketball as a controller.  I appreciate games that encourage people to get active.

Buy it: NBA Baller Beats on Kinect Xbox 360 ($39.99  everywhere else and $29.99 at Walmart). A fabulous holiday gift idea!

Disclosure:  I received a sample of a product to facilitate this post. No other compensation was provided and all views and opinions stated on this post are 100% my own.