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Friction, Berlin, and dancing to the beat - The Virtual Perceptions Newsletter

November 15, 2019

Virtual Perceptions Newsletter

Hello everyone! Busy times as we head to Christmas, but there is always a good time for a long-read by the hypothetical fire. Have a look through the articles, click on the title, and have a relaxing read. As always I am up for a chat, so if you have any question, please ping me over an email. Have an excellent weekend! Tom FfiskeEditor, Virtual Perceptions-

While VR has progressed, though at a slower pace than many expected. Recently, Mark Zuckerberg notes that it is taking longer than expected. And yes, the Oculus Quest is showing signs as a game-changer in the space, with higher sales and user retention. The facts, figures, and quotes have been shared and interpreted widely across the ‘net for the last few years. But this is not a discussion on the rate of change itself; that has been explored elsewhere. The purpose is to pin down how we describe progress itself, and the very language we use. At best, it has been stilted; at worst, misleading. We use previous technology trends to compare VR. ‘VR needs its iPhone moment,’ some would say. Other companies want to provide the ‘Netflix of VR’ with its software. While it is easy to do, and a great way to convey our thoughts, it is mostly untrue and betrays the truth of its development. VR is wholly unique, part of its own game with its own new rules. By the end, I will propose that the development of VR should be based around ‘friction’, or the ease of access to VR content.

Zero Latency invited Virtual Perceptions to try out their warehouse-scale VR experience in Boxpark Wembley, London. We tried co-op zombie shooting, co-op sci-fi adventuring, and competitive PVP shooting during our press day.Our experiences were incredibly positive. Zero Latency shows that VR has a place for parties and events, where the technology is great fun for anyone to use. The experience sits alongside laser tag and go-karting as fun for large groups of friends.

Virtual Perceptions was invited to see Virtually History: The Berlin Wall, a 360 experience that tells the story of the Iron Curtain. Created in collaboration with Remarkable and YouTube Originals, the short pieces were designed as though users can step into a photograph of the past. While simple, the videos offer a compelling and engaging way to learn about the Berlin Wall, which we recommend anyone to watch.

Ever feel like you wanted to dance, randomly and without prompts? The kind of jig where you let the song in your head take over, you’re on your own, and you have a little dance while lost in your thoughts? Take that feeling, and condense it into a VR experience where you boogy your way to a high score. Synth Riders is one of the best VR games of the year.