The Kinect is still a young peripheral, and while several games promise that they’re better with Kinect, here are the 5 that had the best showing from 2011.

Child of Eden Kinect box artChild of Eden

Metacritic: 84

Average price: $39.99

As a rythm-based shooter, this is nothing like the rest of the games on this list.

The game is a mixture of light and sound. Players, as the controller, take aim and fire into corrupted stages. As they purify the stages, they open new worlds and challenges.

The concept is simple, and some players will rush through the game in a few hours. But players who work towards completing the unique challenges will find far more enjoyment.

Dance Central 2Dance Central 2 box art

Metacritic: 86

Average price: $49.99

As a launch title for the Kinect, Dance Central was the embodiment of great software to new hardware. It wasn’t perfect, but even The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has glitches now and then.

The biggest complaint from the first game was addressed. Now, two players dance simultaneously, rather than taking turns.

As an added bonus, owners of the first game can import all songs and dances into Dance Central 2, allowing for twice the options while trying to bust a move against your cousin this holiday season.

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