Earlier this year the BBC launched a 360-degree mobile experience for mobile devices based on its long running hit sci-fi TV show, Doctor Who. Called Time Vortex 360, the broadcaster has now rebooted the experience as a webVR virtual reality (VR) videogame.
Developed for the BBC by Goodboy Digital, the videogame has been created using the WebVR API and combines cutting edge HTML5 and WebGL using PixiJS v5.0. Just like the earlier 360 title, the VR version is an endless runner, which gets more and more difficult the longer people play, taking them on a visually intense journey through the iconic vortex from the show’s opening credits. Using the device’s accelerometer, players control the game by physically moving around, even giving the player the ability to turn around and travel backwards in time.
As players progress through the game, they are transported into different time zones from past eras, from the current vortex to re-imagined designs from the 1960s and 1980s. To play, fans simply need to visit bbc.in/TimeVortexVR.
“This game allows you to step inside one of the most iconic title sequences in TV history, as you pilot the TARDIS through modern, 80s and 60s versions of the vortex. Digital innovation is at the very heart of Doctor Who – and this new game combines casual, arcade-style gaming with virtual reality to create an unforgettable experience,” said Jo Pearce, Creative Director, BBC Digital Drama. “After releasing the 360 version of the game, we had lots of comments from players suggesting it would make a great VR experience. For this re-boot we wanted to offer a VR gaming experience that is as accessible as possible and test the limits of what is possible to develop using WebVR.”
Time Vortex VR is available to play using cardboard headsets, Google Daydream, Samsung Gear VR and HTC Vive via your web browser. However, those without headsets can play the title with mobiles and tablets running newer versions of Android or iOS and the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox or Safari.
This is just another in a growing lineup of immersive titles from the BBC, with previous experiences including THe Turning Forest and Easter Rising: Voice of a Rebel. For the latest BBC VR experiences, keep reading VRFocus.