Virtual Reality is poised to change the world of video games. Over the years, games have changed from single pixels dancing across our screens to immersive worlds for players to get lost in. In 2015, games are moving leaps and bounds further with Virtual Reality. Consumers however, may not be ready for this technology.
The human brain knows when it is being tricked, and when immersed in a virtual world, users can become sick. The brain knows that your surroundings are artificial, the resulting sickness can bring on dizziness and nausea. Every day however dev’s are getting closer to finding out the secret to creating seamless virtual worlds, and some even claim to have found out how. Here are some of the biggest players in the world of VR.
MORPHEUS
Sony promises to throw you into your favorite game worlds using the Morpheus VR headset. At 2015 Game developers conference, Sony confidently showed off a new build of the accessory, and even stated that it is set for release in early 2016. Those lucky enough to demo the new tech found themselves playing in a cage underwater, surrounded by sharks. The gameplay felt so real, players reportedly tried dodging the oncoming sharks with their actual bodies.
OCULUS RIFT
This name has been floating around for quite some time, as one of the first companies to try and bring VR into our homes. Their work thus far has laid the groundwork for other companies to break into the race to bring this new technology into consumer hands. They will mainly support PC gaming and bring a new level to our gameplay.
VIVE
The HTC VIVE has only recently broken out onto the VR scene, with some promising results. Using a revolutionary tracking system, it is said that the VIVE is better at keeping users from getting motion sick, unlike its competitors. Being paired with new steam machines, this will surely be another great option for the PC gamer.
MICROSOFT HOLOLENS
You’ve seen the Holodeck on Star Trek, and after it’s inspiration, Microsoft brings you the Hololense. One can argue that this is more augmented reality however, placing virtual objects in your field of vision rather than immersing you in a virtual world. Microsoft has stated that it will be compatible for use with it’s Xbox One console as well, giving Xbox fans their own VR option as well!’
MAGIC LEAP
By far the most elusive and secretive, the Magic Leap seems to function on.. well… magic. It’s creators claim to have solved immersion sickness, and have successfully fooled the brain into seeing holograms floating seamlessly in our own environment, while some would argue this is AR not VR, the final piece of tech will decide what category it falls into. Using their patented “Light Field Display”, Magic leap claims it has pulled miles ahead of it’s competitors. Unlike Oculus Rift, the creators of the Leap are not sharing however. We will all have to wait to see a working prototype in the future.
Whichever you choose there is no doubt that games are about to take a quantum leap forward. Who are you rooting for in the VR race? What do you think of VR in general? Will you use it?