Many virtual reality (VR) enthusiasts were disappointed when HTC recently announced a delay in the release of their collaboration with Valve, the HTC Vive. However, there’s no denying that the head-mounted display (HMD) has some interesting exclusive titles in the works, despite Valve’s assurances that this is not their intention. VRFocus picks 5 of the hottest properties coming in 2016 in the latest instalment of this ‘Ones to Watch’ feature series.
John Wick: The VR Experience
While the John Wick motion-picture is about as brainless an action experience as you can get, Starbreeze Studios and WEVR are creating a much more cerebral VR adaptation. The first chapter of this videogame tie-in, revealed at Paris Games Week back in October 2015, showcased an array of interactions within the Continental Hotel featured in the movie, but less so was there emphasis on inane killing of random bad guys. A good thing, certainly, and promising as an expansion of the franchise.
Aperture Science
The Aperture Science demonstration, also known as the Robot Repair Human Diversity Outreach Program, was one of the first showcases of the HTC Vive technology. Developed internally by Valve, this exposition of the Portal universe is fantastic in both its showcase of the possibilities of the HTC Vive hardware and the continuation of Portal‘s derogatory consideration for the player. Humorous, inventive and exciting, Aperture Science remains one of the most impressive and enjoyable uses of VR technology the videogames industry has yet offered.
Job Simulator: The 2050 Archives
Originally unveiled alongside the HTC Vive, Owlchemy Labs’ Job Simulator: The 2050 Archives has since been confirmed for the Oculus Rift and PlayStation VR also. However, it’s the original edition that remains the highlight due to its design perfectly encapsulating the possibilities of the HTC Vive’s Roomscale technology. The player plays and menial jobs such as an office worker or store clerk; ‘play’ is the operative word, as the resulting experience is nothing like work.
Elite Dangerous
It’s coming to Oculus Rift. Or is it? Despite efforts to ascertain the status of the once certain release of Elite Dangerous‘ VR edition on Oculus Rift, only Frontier Developments knows whether or not it’ll actually happen. However, we all know that it will come to HTC Vive, and in that EVE: Valkyrie actually has competition for the best space combat simulator in VR.
The Gallery
Undoubtedly an impressive showcase of the HTC Vive’s Roomscale technology, The Gallery has shifted perspective since the unveiling of a full motion-sensing VR system for consumers. Having been showcased within the VR enthusiast community for some time, The Gallery is keenly anticipated already. However, the changes the videogame has undergone since the reveal of the HTC Vive place it as a frontrunner for a system that can offer more than headlook in VR, and Oculus Touch still feels a long way off.
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