Chinese Eedoo Ebox Console Takes On Kinect With Lenovo's Cash

A Lenovo spin-off team has apparently been working on a Microsoft Kinect competitor, planning to release the so-called Ebox in China as a motion-gaming rival to the Xbox 360.  According to China Daily, the new firm – Beijing eedoo Technology Ltd – is targeting casual gamers with their camera-based system; the hardware is expected to be priced higher than the Wii but, according to eedoo president Jack Luo, "may be slightly lower than Microsoft's Xbox, which retails for $299.99."

"Our product is designed for family entertainment. Ebox may not have exquisite game graphics, or extensive violence, but it can inspire family members to get off the couch and get some exercise" Jack Luo, president, eedoo Technology

While clone consoles are not unheard of, what distinguishes eedoo's project is its big-name investors.  Lenovo Group, Legend Holdings and Legend Capital have all apparently invested in the company, though nobody will reveal exactly to what financial extent; meanwhile a second round of funding, supposedly worth $10m, is expected by the end of 2010.

Luo claims 16 global game developers have signed contracts to provide content, and 30 free titles will be bundled with the Ebox.  Meanwhile the Xbox 360 is not currently on sale in China, blocked by the government over fears that gaming might potential damage physical and mental development in young players.  Luo hopes to develop more Chinese-centric titles that will bypass those concerns.

[via Reuters]