Virtual reality (VR) is one of the most exciting prospects in the tech world today. It was previously thought of as a mere pipedream, reserved for works of science fiction and the dreams of overly ambitious researchers.
However, VR is here, and it’s here to stay. We’re already seeing it adopted across healthcare, education, and manufacturing industries, and of course in the gaming sector. Is tech at a point where it can realistically be used for mainstream gaming? Let’s find out.
How Does VR Work?
VR is a form of audio-visual technology that is used to create fully immersive virtual worlds. By wearing a headset, users can enter these worlds and interact as if they were physically present in them.
VR headsets are equipped with high-definition near-field displays to create the visual aspect, while speakers within the headset provide the audio element. Motion sensors and trackers within the helmet and in handheld devices map user movement, allowing them to move around and interact within the virtual world.
VR in Gaming
VR has long been the ultimate goal for gamers and game developers alike. Who doesn’t want to enter the world of their favourite game to explore and enjoy themselves?
We’ve seen numerous VR games hit the market, but as of yet these have yet to fully take off in a mainstream way. Why is this? One of the main reasons is the price. VR headsets are prohibitively expensive; few people are willing to shell out thousands when they can just as easily play fun Android games on their phones.
VR is sophisticated technology that uses state-of-the-art equipment. What this means is that VR headsets can be extremely pricey, well out of reach for the average consumer.
The upside here is that these prices will likely fall in the future. The tech is still relatively new, as processes and development techniques are streamlined and optimised, we can expect to see the tech become more affordable.
VR Tech
Trying out a VR headset for the first time can be an incredible experience. You’ll feel like you are stepping into the future, and you’ll be amazed at what you see.
However, for many people, this sense of wonder can be short-lived. Some find the effect of VR isn’t quite what they expected, and it can seem a little gimmicky after the initial amazement has worn off.
Others find the headsets uncomfortable and impractical. Playing games on your phone or on a console is easy and accessible, it doesn’t require donning a helmet and blocking the outside world.
However, as with the price, we can expect to see these aspects of VR improve in the future. The tech will continue to be developed, and as it does the experience will be honed to maximise player comfort and enjoyment.
Conclusion
VR gaming has quite taken off in the mainstream. This is likely due to two reasons, the first being the cost of the equipment and the second being the fact that the tech isn’t quite where it should be yet. However, developers are working on these issues as we speak, and VR could well be accepted into the mainstream sooner than we might expect.