Virtual reality (VR) is a powerful technology that will take over gaming in the future. However, VR headsets are not yet widely available and most gamers still stick to conventional consoles for their gaming fix.
Conventional games involve using a joystick, swipe the screen or press keys to control the game, but these methods become repetitive and boring over time. VR introduces new gameplay mechanics that can make the games more engaging and immersive.
Immersive Experience
VR gaming is an immersive experience offered by a headset equipped with sensors that track head movement and hand controllers. The technology creates computer-generated 3D images and environments that appear real to the user and offer a new perspective on the game.
While we aren’t yet at Matrix-like levels of immersion, the latest VR games and hardware can be incredibly realistic. This is partly because VR requires extreme demands on pixel quality, positional audio and intuitive interfaces.
In addition to traditional video games, VR can also be used to enhance training programs and provide immersive experiences for high-stress or dangerous jobs. For example, the military has been experimenting with virtual reality in order to train soldiers for battle and provide a safe environment where they can practice critical skills.
Social Interaction
VR allows gamers to connect with other players on a deeper level, allowing them to express themselves in a new way. This can range from interacting with other avatars to emulating real-world events, such as attending the cricket world cup or racing in Formula one & MotoGP.
In addition, haptic feedback technology can add an extra layer to the experience. This feature allows users to feel the force of an arrow being shot or a car crash, creating a more immersive gaming experience.
This trend has extended beyond gaming, with VR being used by businesses for remote collaboration, testing and training purposes. It also helps to break down geographical barriers and fosters more engagement in learning materials. The potential of VR in the future is endless, and it’s likely to be integrated into many aspects of our lives.
Education & Training
The VR gaming experience is still a niche experience for gamers, but it will become increasingly mainstream as headsets and games improve. New technologies are making it more affordable to use, including eye tracking and foveated rendering that delivers better performance without requiring a high frame rate, which causes discomfort and motion sickness.
Educators are using VR to teach science, healthcare and technology based topics. Language learning and arts (such as music) have received less interest, however, VR provides unique opportunities to connect learners in virtual worlds. This can take them on excursions that would be impossible in person, like visiting the International Space Station or learning musical theory and instruments through the game Virtuoso. Educators are also creating immersive games that help students with math, vocabulary and reading.
Mobile VR
VR allows gamers to become immersed in a simulated environment that feels real. This can have a profound impact on the user, making them laugh, cry, or gasp in surprise.
The technology can also be used for training and therapy purposes. However, it can be expensive, and some people may experience motion sickness when using it.
Mobile VR headsets use a smartphone as the screen, letting users slide their phone into a headset that has lenses to magnify it and make it appear 3D. These are cheaper than tethered headsets and simpler to set up, but they lack the high-quality motion-sensing and head-tracking capabilities of tethered systems. Mobile VR is still available, but it seems to be fading away. John Carmack recently offered a eulogy for the Gear VR headset, and Google has dropped Daydream support on its new Pixel 4 phones.
eSports
The supermajority of VR innovation and investment is happening in the gaming space. This has a huge potential to impact eSports in the long run.
The popularity of eSports is increasing as it has the ability to attract and engage more spectators. With the advent of VR, the experience will be much more exciting and realistic for spectators.
VR allows eSports fans to be transported to different arenas and tournaments around the world from the comfort of their homes. This will appeal to more people all over the world and expand the fan base of eSports.
The use of VR in eSports can also help players become fitter and healthier. This is because the game requires physical skills like hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes, unlike traditional video games where players just have to focus on their screen.
