Implementing virtual reality technology into modern gaming has finally come to a point where it can improve gameplay. In previous attempts, VR gaming appeared rushed to market, and gameplay was sacrificed in order for developers to be some of the first to use the emerging technology.
Thankfully, technology has caught up with the concept, and developers can now implement VR aspects into games without worrying about slowing down the game or causing it to glitch.
The online gambling industry was one of the first to harness technology, helping to create a more immersive online gaming experience.
Industry expert Andjelija Blagojevic explains that online betting sites operate in such a competitive market that they must provide the best customer experience available, which includes no-KYC verification services, sign-up bonuses, a selection of payment methods including cryptocurrencies, and enhanced security. (Source: cardplayer.com)
Another way that operators attract customers is by offering the best gaming experience available, and including VR tech in their online casino games allows the customer to fully immerse themselves in the latest gaming titles.
Now, the Esports industry looks ready to develop VR technology and improve competitions.
VR Development
Surprisingly, VR dates back to the 1950s when Morton Heilig developed an immersive experience that used 3D images, sounds, and smells. However, it wasn't until the 1980s that Jaron Lanier created VR headsets and gloves that the technology began to take shape.
VR systems began to hit the market in the '90s as Nintendo and Sega explored the commercial market. While it was exciting to see this technology being used in gaming, it was never at a standard where it really took off. The 2000s and 2010s saw further development, with headsets like the Oculus Rift growing in popularity.
Advancements in hardware technology have resulted in lightweight, comfortable headsets with better visuals and motion tracking. More sensitive haptic feedback has also enhanced the control of the player.
Improving Connectivity
Online gaming is the new norm, with players enjoying online connections and competition against players around the world.
High-speed fibre optic broadband and 5G connectivity now make it easier for consumers to enjoy strong online connections that don’t drop or buffer at crucial stages. This has helped to revolutionize the gaming industry and allow developers to use state-of-the-art tech to improve and expand gameplay.
Potential New Genres
The Esports industry sees thousands of global competitors play across a variety of genres, and VR can help to create a whole new one that will captivate players and spectators.
Existing genres have the potential for development, including a VR MOBA experience where players battle in virtual arenas or adventure games where players explore, fight, solve puzzles, and more, all in a virtual world.
VR sports games would bring a more physical element to gameplay, increasing the difficulty and requiring a different level of stamina to compete at the top level.
Current VR Limitations
While VR technology has come a long way, there are still limitations that could halt its rapid integration into the Esports industry.
For one thing, VR technology does not come cheaply, and players have to invest a significant amount to enjoy the best hardware. This will likely become more affordable as the technology becomes more widely available, but players will still be expected to pay a premium for the best options.
Physical limitations can also impact the ability of people to take part in VR gaming. The space needed to play VR games is greater than traditional gaming, and physical disabilities can also impact the players' ability to use controls and headsets.
The immersive aspect of VR gaming is its major selling point, but this might not translate as well to spectators. The growth of the Esports industry has been driven by support from other gamers who have tuned in to live streams of events. The experience of the spectator must be considered with all the developments that the industry considers.
While tech and connectivity improvements have made VR gaming a possibility, it is by no means perfect for everyone. Gaming latency is a surefire way of ruining a gaming session, and not everyone will have access to a connection that provides the strength to perform consistently.
VR headsets and haptic feedback still have a way to go despite showing a massive improvement over previous iterations. While players are still able to enjoy immersive gaming experiences, multi-million dollar competitions require high-quality performance.
Future VR Development
There is massive potential for growth in Esports and huge potential for continued development in VR technology. Bringing the two together can help both enjoy expansion, and the creation of new Esports classes will appeal to a lot of experienced and novice gamers.
Improving technology will benefit the industry significantly, and VR development will help to provide more comfortable hardware that facilitates movement. Improvements in the visual and audio elements of VR will continue, but it is the development of haptic technology that will set it apart from traditional Esports games.
Advanced haptic tech should not only improve the sensitivity and control available to players, but it could also be developed to allow players to feel different sensations like the pressure of a trigger on a gun and different weather conditions. The potential for scent and taste elements to be added might seem far fetched, but they are the next logical step to creating complete immersion in the gaming experience.
The active element of VR gaming will also help to appeal to a different market, just like the Nintendo Wii did in the 2000s, with games like Wii Fit entertaining a wide cross-section of consumers. As developers explore potential new titles, a new breed of Esports athlete could be born who combines physical fitness with top-class gaming ability.
Implementing VR technology into Esports is an exciting prospect that could help take it to the next level. Not only will it help to expand the potential for new players to break through, but it will also require a different type of gamer.