After announcing in February a $4 million investment to help it enter the consumer virtual reality (VR) space, peripheral maker StrikerVR has now revealed a new partnership with Immersion, a specialist in haptic freedback technology.
The will aid StrikerVR’s step into consumer gaming peripherals, with Immersion’s HD haptic and kinesthetic technologies integrated into StrikerVR’s platform. Images like the ones above showcase what the designs could look like, offering a fully functioning gun accessory similar to the company’s location-based entertainment (LBE) products.
From the sound of it, StrikerVR is planning on creating several devices rather than just one gun with a statement noting haptics that simulate: “the power of a floor-shaking speaker; to the crack of a baseball bat; to the pull of a fishing line.”
“New advanced force feedback and high-definition vibrotactile haptic products launched in the market are inspiring the gaming industry to deliver new experiences with touch feedback technology. Gaming experiences today are defined by sight, sound and touch,” said John Griffin, VP of Products and Marketing at Immersion in a statement. “StrikerVR is thinking ahead and building a product that will excite users with its advanced features. We’re looking forward to working with them to expand the use of touch feedback on their platform and change how people experience haptics.”
“Haptics is an important part of making the gaming and VR experience as realistic as possible,” said Martin Holly, VP, and Founder of StrikerVR. “The more that we can do with the sense of touch and haptics, the better the experience. Touch brings it all together and creates a sense of presence. We’ve worked with haptics in our product for VR attractions, and we’re thrilled to be taking this next step with Immersion to bring even more interactivity and presence to new experiences for consumers.”
The collaboration between StrikerVR and Immersion is part of a multi-year license agreement, with the companies yet to confirm when these new devices might be appearing. When further details are made available, VRFocus will let you know.