Computers, Gaming, and VR Thoughts

There’s something that has been on my mind lately regarding gaming, the part computers play in the industry, and where the future of video games is going. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come over the years, from the first console system to the seeds of virtual reality becoming main stream. What does that mean for gamers? What about the industry? The only thing I can honestly see are positive outcomes leading to further other industries such as the medical field and military. Both of them already use simulations crafted from gaming technology at great success rates.

It’s no secret that most games these days are playable on a PC and some are even mac compatible. There’s even a meme about the ‘pc master race’ that’s so mainstream almost every gamer has seen it a least once. Computers are a great medium for gaming simply because they are easy to upgrade, are constantly evolving into something better, and are easy to adapt the most simple to the most complex games to depending on system requirements. Consoles, in response, have upped their game, so to speak. Gaming consoles have become even more like computers to make way to better graphics and more complex systems. Big RPGs no longer take multiple discs. This has caused the gaming industry to go from some niche kids and nerds thing to a past time anyone can enjoy.

You’re probably wondering where I’m going with all this. Well, virtual reality, naturally. I can’t seem to look at gaming articles without seeing one or two dedicated to virtual reality. There’s tons of hype as well as challenges standing between us and the future of gaming. The graphics and response have improved greatly since the first virtual reality machines hit select arcades a few years ago. There’s not many arcades left except for those with old game machines and the ones in theme parks with the newer units, like the virtual reality ones. Recently, we have seen an increase in consumer grade virtual reality devices. They have recently started selling for the same price, if not a bit more, than high end consoles or low end gaming computers. Mostly, the graphics are still needing work. I have seen some development announced for better graphics in games. I’ve also seen some rumors, still unconfirmed last I checked, about adding rpgs to the mix. We all know what we’re waiting on. A MMORPG with awesome graphics and tons of cool features. Let’ hope it doesn’t turn into a Sword Art Online.

We’re still a long way away from the perfect virtual reality experience but we have getting closer. Now I need to get my hands on one of the VR devices and see just how far they have come first hand. There’s only so much of the experience you can get from watching youtube videos.