Stephen Davies – Augmented & Virtual Reality Confabulation

April 25, 2018

4 Additions We’re Likely To See In VR Headsets For 2019

Headset manufacturers have to contend with various trade-offs when they come to the designing of their hardware. Not all capabilities can be added together in the same unit, for example, whilst still making the headsets cost effective. This is something that tech companies are working to resolve, however, so what can we expect from virtual reality (VR) headsets for 2019?

Eye Tracking

Eye tracking technology in VR headsets is able to take advantage of peripheral vision to better serve the human eye with visuals. Because the space directly in front of the eye is where the greatest detail is seen, headsets can display images in greater detail there, and less so toward the edges of peripheral vision. This allows images to be rendered in a way that the eye is much more accustomed to, adjusting the focus of detail depending on where the eye is looking.

This “foveated rendering” method is only possible with eye tracking technology installed within the headset, which is why it is likely to be included in more headsets by the time 2019 rolls around. Eye tracking technology can also fundamentally change the way users interact with objects, reducing the time it takes to complete many common tasks by using the eye to target specific objects.

Improved Resolution

If you have ever been in a position where you have been able to actually see individual pixels, called the ‘screen door’ effect, then the upcoming crop of headsets will likely be a pleasant experience. The HTC Vive Pro and Samsung Odyssey both weigh in with resolutions of 1440 x 1600, per display. While these resolutions are not quite enough to completely eliminate the pixelation, they are a definite improvement.

Kopin, a display manufacturer, have demonstrated a microdisplay that is capable of a resolution of 2,000 x 2,000 per display. The frame rate of 60 frames per second it currently enjoys may not be as smooth as the 90 frames per second that can be seen on either the Vive or Rift, it may be that higher frame rates at this resolution start to become the norm in 2019.

Foveated rendering is going to prove instrumental to making these resolution and frame rate jumps affordable, because the way images are rendered means that lower cost graphics cards can be used without a drop in quality.

Reverse Tracking

Reverse tracking refers to the way onboard cameras see the world around itself, in order to figure out its position in the world. This method is in direct contrast to the way other headsets work, which require cameras, or lasers, be placed around the room so the exact position of the headset can be determined.

These new generation of headsets do require physical connection to a relatively expensive computer in order to work, but they do represent a huge step onward from the likes of Vive and Rift in terms of convenience.

2019 is likely to see this reverse tracking technology make further advancements, provided the connective cord can be cut and the headset becomes wireless. Microsoft headed up this particular reverse, or inside out, tracking but others are catching up quickly: Google and Facebook both have their own versions, with Google partnering with Lenovo.

Wireless Headsets

There are several approaches to the wireless headset, one of which is making use of a high-powered processing center like a PC or even a powerful console such as the Xbox One X. The way this would work is by broadcasting and receiving large amounts of data to and from the associated VR headset.

A second approach is using a standalone system, which involves placing the processing power either directly on the headset itself or in a pack that would be worn by the user. This approach would be more portable but the first approach could be more cost effective if there already an existing PC / console that could be made use of. VRE run events to show off the capabilities of this equipment. Have a chat with VRE on VR events in the UK.

Vive Pro and Vive Wireless Adapter 2019 could well be an interesting year for the world of virtual reality headsets, and with lower cost graphics cards set to allow more functionality we should start seeing more features and technologies sooner rather than later.

December 28, 2017

The Hottest Apps For Gear VR So Far

Since its arrival, the Samsung Gear VR has been a beacon of hope. Hope for millions that they will be able to get their hands on wallet friendly virtual reality experiences. Up until Gear VR, the phrase ‘affordable VR’ was reserved for things like Google cardboard, so it’s hardly surprising that their is a lot pinned on the success of Gear VR Apps and the, hopefully, affordable VR revolution that it heralded.

An increased field of view and smooth as butter design makes the latest offering even better value for money. If you have managed to pick one up, or you are about to, you are doubtless eager to see what it can do when put through its paces. What better way to take it for a spin than with some free apps?

Samsung BeFearless – Heights

A ‘BeFearless’ campaign launched by Samsung was headlined by the challenge set in Heights. VR technology is used more and more in the tackling of phobias, and Samsung in all their wisdom decided to bring much of that tech into the home, and Gear VR users have been grateful ever since! Using scientific data as its basis, Heights teaches users to face and hopefully overcome their fear of heights.

Every level, presented in glorious 360° video, sees a small increase in the uncomfortable stakes, gradually easing you up the mountain, so to speak.

Sonar

A lot of the time, a successfully immersive experience relies on the quality of the visuals; nothing rips you out of an experience faster than corrupted graphics, edge clipping or just plain old poor visuals. Luckily, Sonar is borderline beautiful to look at.

Dropping you into the cockpit of a hi-tech (is there any other kind?) spaceship, Sonor is a space flight simulation like no other. No spoilers here, but get ready to need a hug at the end. The app received an update earlier this year to bring it to the Google Daydream.

The Expanse VR

If you are a fan of sci-fi – and who isn’t’? – then you are going to love this offering from NBC Universal Media. The Expanse VR takes the user on a journey into deep space, in a future where mankind has colonized the galaxy and make deep space its new home. A narrator takes you through the experience (think Harrison Ford in Blade Runner, except much more engaging) as you take in the sights of some seriously impressive space stations that now inhabit the milky way.

CoLab – Trial Rooms

This offering presents the player with a labyrinth simulation and is perfect if you are new to virtual reality technology as it takes you through the usage of Gear VR and its abilities. This is less a tutorial however and more of an intensive exercise in critical thinking and VR world navigation.

Players are guided through the labyrinth by a distant and disembodied voice, but don’t expect that to make things easier. Definitely worth picking up, you can take a look at Trial Rooms on YouTube.

Invasion!

There are few things, either virtual or actual, in this world that are cuter than wide eyed bunny rabbits. Jumping into this VR experience is like chewing sugar cubes while a unicorn licks your toes. While not interactive, you will not be able to prevent yourself falling in love with this short, 360° animated film. Join the cutest, fuzziest little rabbit in the universe has it faces up to alien ‘invaders’.

Invasion actually won an Emmy for its efforts, and it really isn’t hard to see why. You can see Invasion on YouTube and there is also a free video on the Xbox One store.

Rilix Coaster

Strong stomachs are a must for Rilix Coaster, as it has the ability to make even the sturdiest of people motion sick. Isn’t that a bad thing, though? No, you amateur! Half the fun of VR experiences like this is being taken out of your comfort zone and having your senses messed with.

In the case of Riix Coaster, you will find yourself reaching out to grab something for balance – and not in a disoriented way, in a beautifully realistic way to support yourself as the coaster throws you around. The very fact that Rilix manages to do this despite the low graphics is a huge testament to the overall quality of the simulation. Highly recommended and you can get a preview of Rilix Coaster on YouTube – don’t let the slow start fool you!

Rilix Coaster screenshot High quality VR experiences have never been as affordable as the Samsung Gear VR but let’s hope that it sets a trend, and not just for this type of headset experience either. VR technology has been around a good while now, with a bit of luck it will increase in popularity and enough to the point where manufactures are able to adjust price points on high-end devices too.

November 17, 2017

7 Most Wanted Virtual Reality Videogames For Oculus Rift

Oculus Rift is undoubtedly a great bit of kit, but for some there are some essential titles that really need to make the jump and become available for the virtual reality (VR) gadget. Some of the ‘most wanted’ that we have compiled here, for your reading pleasure, are more obvious than others while some will make you think “ooooh, yeah!”. This is not a wish list, by the way, these titles are coming for Oculus either as official releases or by way of ‘mods’, as are the following 7 most wanted compiled by the team at VR Hire company VRE:

Half-Life 2 VR

Others may not list this one first, mostly because of its unofficial status, but HL remains a cult classic and changed the genre the genre and the way FPS titles went about their business – Half-Life was the first FPS game to introduce physics based play. With Half-Life 3 never coming (sorry), a VR experience is the next best thing as far as many are concerned. Half-Life 2 lends itself to the technology, visually at least, much more than the original ever could and so here we are. Updated effects & textures, a redesigned UI and HDR lighting await.

Transference

Live action video games are something of a niche, with only a small handful of titles taking that approach. Transference is a psychological thriller from SpectreVision, in partnership with Ubisoft. Players delve into the memories of an obsessed, self destructive man. Working through these memories you try to solve the riddle of a troubled family and attempt to escape the maze like house, solving its mysteries as you progress. Slated for a release in 2018, around spring time, Transference is expected to support all three major VR platforms.

Marvel Powers United VR

Oculus has donned their cape and teamed up with Marvel and Disney to bring VR fans another quality title. The development of the game is being handled by Sanzaru Games, who have worked with Oculus before. The game itself looks pretty impressive, and we can only guess what it will feel like to hulk out on your front room while you throw bad guys around. Everybody wants to be a superhero, and now they can.

MARVEL Powers United VR Group

ARK Park

If you are familiar with ARK: Survival Evolved, then you will have some idea of what ARK Park is about if I said it’s akin to a safari park. This rather unique VR experience is based on ARK: Survival Evolved, and allows players to get up close and personal with the dinosaurs that inhabit the world of ARK. As well as being able to take a closer look at the animals, you can learn more about them and also explore the habits that they call home, too; from tropical rainforests to mountain ranges and plains. Developed by Snail Games Peacock Studio, ARK Park is available on Steam and PS4.

L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files

Available for the HTC Vive, The VR Case Files answers a lot of rumours surrounding L.A. Noire and VR. A lot speculation was made as to whether the original game, from Rockstar games, would make the transition to VR – the answer is no, it won’t. Instead, The VR Case Files is a game specifically designed for virtual reality, to take advantage of everything the tech. has to offer, rather than retrofitting an existing title. Smart move, if you think about it. Seven cases from the original were chosen for the VR version, to properly showcase the game and the technology.

Brass Tactics

Expected early 2018, the RTS Brass Tactics brings a 5 mission solo campaign as well as co-op play and a full fledged online RTS experience. Starting off as commander, you take control of units around your base, bringing your hands into the world so that you can pick up and move your units around the game world. Immersive titles like this, with a top down view of the world, are expected to become more commonplace as time goes by. Hidden Path Entertainment aim to bring more unit types and progression trees into the game before final release, toward the end of February 2018.

Budget Cuts

Budget Cuts has probably generated as much hype as Watch_Dogs did in the run up to its release, first debuting as an incredible demo, in 2016, and nothing has been seen since for over a year. One of the best VR experiences available, at that point, the demo for Budget Cuts simply wowed everybody that it came into contact with it. While Neat Corporation have been busy, and annoyingly quietly, working away on the game, the hype train keeps on chugging. The problem now is, can Budget Cuts live up to expectations? All we can do right now is wait, and find out for ourselves.

Budget Cuts 2

September 30, 2017

What Makes Multiplayer VR A Success And A Challenge?

Multiplayer Virtual Reality (VR) is as progressive as it is problematic; many challenges face VR tech for the future though breakthroughs are reaching the surface of gaming allowing multiplayer growth in VR.

There is already so much that has to go into making the VR experience work for a single person, and even more has to go into making multiplayer components work, because now there are multiple people interacting in similar VR environments. Not only do they need to interact with the environment, but they need to interact with one another, and the entire experience needs to feel immersive and three-dimensional, and that’s no easy task to achieve.

As many advances as are being made in the world of VR, there are also new problems arising. As the technology improves, tech companies want to do more and more with the technology and consumers are demanding more and more.

There is a feeling of accomplishment when a new achievement is attained, but then there is always the question of “Okay, now what do we do next and how do we implement it?”. There is always room to improve, to iterate and to go farther with the technology, and Multiplayer VR is the next logical step for the tech.

While Multiplayer presents problems to solved by those working in this industry, breakthroughs are evident and gamer expectations are going forward.

The Successes Do Come and They Wow Players

VR has served up a feast of visual delights to headset couch potatoes seeking that extra bit of entertainment. Delivery has come through thousands of apps for the main contenders such as Gear VR, Vive and PS4. Gaming in VR has taken off and players get to wander dungeons as in the Herobound series, travel through space with amazing spatial adventures like End Space, and shoot up zombies in frenetic videogames like Drop Dead.

So, really going by the state of online gaming over the last 10 years, the next step was obvious.

Time to go boldly Multiplayer.

Star Trek: Bridge Crew brings the popular and ever growing multiplayer online gaming world to VR. It is literally a trekkie dream: command a starship, chat with your crew (other VR players) and seek out new life forms and new civilisations aboard your own starship.

Here is a trailer:

Once you are plugged into the videogame, you will find yourself aboard the starship USS Aegis and you get to choose your role. Perhaps you do not wish to command and prefer a supporting role. You choose from one of 4 roles: Become the Captain, take charge of weapons as Tactical Officer, steer the starship through star systems known and unknown as Helmsman or control the power of the Aegis as Systems Engineer.

All space hell will break loose as you brave dangerous systems. It’s a real visceral experience when a rogue ship fires at you and the videogame makes you experience the blast against the shields with the impressive sound effects we expect these days from gaming. The wow factor hits the trekkie in you as the Aegis goes to warp and the stars become streaks of light as you travel. Hit the warp button and go thrusters on full towards your destination on the wonderfully realistic starship bridge – believing you travel on a starship is easy. Dropping out of warp is real fun as you watch the screen reveal a new system or a mission area to visit.

As a player, you must be on the ball and ready to take a command and react quick. The helmsman and tactical guys for example need to be on point if the ship is to steer well in a battle and fire accurately. Trekkies will love the technology: sub-systems, warp control, warp core power.

Multiplayer is not forced, single player mode is available too. Do play with 2 or 3 others for a real star trek simulation to share with keen gamer buddies. That said, a single player option allows you to go solo as you choose a role and the AI takes over the other roles if that floats your boat.

Ubisoft have blown the boundaries away on VR gaming here by capturing the visual excitement of trek gameplay and the wonder of VR in a videogame that will keep you hooked, trekkie or not. Maybe it is no surprise that Ubisoft have taken the helm on the project, their previous Star Trek videogames of old were very popular such as Legacy.

It’s as trek as it gets. The tech goes solar. You really can do all those smart trek-techie combat tricks you hear in the series and movies such as dropping shields at the right time or teleporting survivors to the starship before a ship explodes – and so much more.

Did I mention you can command the original Enterprise from the 60s series? Well now I have.

Want to gain more insight into the roles in the videogame and some gameplay action? Here is a great video from Ubisoft:

The Obvious Limitations

So, Star Trek gaming in multiplayer mode to one side, how does VR cope with the growth of multiplayer as accomplished on the PC, Mac and now Android and iOS tablets.

VR is a relatively new technology in the way that it has only recently been introduced to the public in a way that is mass marketable. There are still lots of kinks to work out and lots of advances to come to make the process of experiencing VR smoother and more immersive. That means that any new addition to the tech, such as multiplayer, needs to be introduced gradually.

No one expects 16-player ‘death matches’ in a virtual world by the end of the year, and it is important to keep the expectations of consumers and tech developers in check. Baby steps are needed to perfect the technology and ensure it is feasible to add in new elements.

Even with one player present, VR can lag a bit. There can be some delay between input and visualization, and that’s dangerous to immersion. Once you add more players to the mix, the lag can increase and the level of immersion can take a hit. The illusion of being in a virtual environment can begin to fade, and it’s important to counteract that and do whatever is necessary to keep the players involved in the videogame.

The problem with adding a bunch of players into a VR title at this point is that not everyone will have the apparatus necessary to play in multiplayer session, so it’s not realty necessary to expand the player count that far at this time in the VR lifecycle.

Dealing with the Space issue

Anytime you have multiple people in a shared space and they can’t see each other physically, you run into problems when they have to start moving around. That’s exactly what VR does, as this people will be wearing sight restricting headsets, and they have to interact with each other virtually without bumping into each other physically. That means that once again, keeping the player count low is ideal for local multiplayer. It also means that in order to make multiplayer work, there needs to be some way to deal with the problem of space between players.

When the multiplayer is over the internet, there isn’t as much of a problem, but there are some niggling issues to work out. If you put players together in a virtual world, and they are hearing one another over their headsets instead of physically listening to them in the same room, then there is a light disconnect that occurs by having distorted audio. The audio received over a speaker will never be as clear as audio located within the same physical space, and that can hurt the immersion somewhat.

Create a Responsive Framework

VR only works if the people using it are enjoying it and are immersed. If there is something missing from their experience or it is off in any way, it can ruin the entire experience, and VR might not be as successful as its proponent’s hope. That means that developers need to be listening to their play testers and to consumers.

There will be problems with the technology and the experience that the designers and developers may not realize. Even through extensive testing they may miss some issues. It is only once the product goes to market and the consumers use it that these issues will be noted and hopefully sorted out. Leading VR hire company VRE commented “As a burgeoning technology, VR has a long way to go and a lot of missteps to take, but if developers are listening to their customers, then they can fix problems quickly and keep the market from stagnating.”

It’s easier than ever for them to connect with their customers, too, since they can interact with them directly through social media and get a quick response as soon as they release the product. If they aren’t paying attention to what their customers think about their products, however, then they aren’t likely to succeed.

The idea of multiplayer VR is an exciting one, and it is in its earliest stages of development right now. There a some really good multiplayer VR titles out already. Hopefully, we’ll get to see a mass market release for a few different variations on the multiplayer experience in the near future, and we can’t wait to see how developers implement it. We want it to be a success just as much as those making the products, but only time will tell if it can be pulled off.