The concept of VR (or to the less informed Virtual Reality), refers to a computerized technology accessed through headsets allowing for multi-projected environments to simulate a virtual environment. It is a field providing growing excitement across the technology and beyond- with over 100 million VR units sold globally in 2016, a figure that is expected to continually grow with everyone keen for a taste of VR! With that said this blogpost focuses on identifying a VR headset to suit you, whilst providing you with a list of must have VR apps. As well as allowing for us to have a little bit of fun as well! But before you start (we probably should tell you!), always read the instructions before use. Most headsets advise against using VR goggles for more than 30 minutes at a time- you’ve only got one pair of eyes!
Choosing your headset: Headsets come in a range of designs, aimed to suit your preference. The most basic VR goggles start from as little as $3, to more advanced VR Headsets ranging up to anything as high as $500. Similarly, the material basis of VR Headsets also offers variance with cardboard, rubber and plastic options available. Taking all of this into consideration, it really is a case of budget, comfortability and the purpose and frequency of usage!
VR Thrills Roller Coaster: Everyone loves a trip to a theme park- with the favourite part of most visitors’ trip being a ride on the latest Roller Coaster. With conquering Roller Coasters fulfilling the greatest desire of most thrill seekers, it presents a great shame that a trip to the theme park is becoming increasingly expensive … Would VR Thrills: Roller Coaster please step forward! The VR Thrills: Roller Coaster app is completely free to download, meaning you can enjoy the theme park experience, whilst using your smartphone without an expensive admission (and don’t worry, you won’t lose your mobile during these loop the loops!)
Sites in VR: Ever fancied a trip to Paris? A historical tour of ancient Egypt’s Pyramids? Or maybe even both within the same hour- impossible? Or so you thought! Traveling is an interest high on the agenda of millions of people with in excess of 76 million international tourists flocking to the USA alone in 2016. That statistic by itself suggests huge crowds and long perennial queues- the downfall of any experience! By downloading sites in VR you can enjoy a 360 degree view of a wide range of global landmarks, without having to leave the comfort of your own home- could you ask for a better queue jump! Landmarks are split into categories, but with multiple locations from across the globe being available, a specific preference can also be refined through the search icon. Now isn’t it time to put the kettle on, put your feet up and most importantly explore the world!
VR Cave: Do you ever wonder how the Cavemen lived in such surroundings? Please tell me it’s not just me! Whether it’s just a passing thought or a moment of continuous curiosity causing sleepless nights- it’s time to download VR Cave (It’s even free of charge!) VR Cave provides a larger than life experience inside a cave. Explore all the nooks and crannies of the never ending cave searching up down and all around, yearning for an escape route Have you got what it takes to escape the cave? No. You can’t escape the cave but I guess that’s half the fun!
Google Earth: With Google Earth being a widely used feature of Google and having been accessible to users since 2001, the majority of internet users will have come into contact with the program. For the benefit of those who are unfamiliar with the program, Google Earth uses satellite imagery to provide users with 3D image of the planet. However, what might seem a less familiar concept to many users of Google Earth is Google Earth VR! Ever wanted to wander, browse or fly around the globe? Download Google Earth VR! The standard walk around feature can be utilised by turning and moving your head in the general direction in which you wish to travel, enabling you to browse almost every corner of the planet! Alternatively, by moving your arm around you are able to navigate and fly around the world. Unfortunately the flying feature is currently only compatible with the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift, but don’t worry there’s still plenty of time to obtain a pilot’s licence, with more widespread availability expected in the near future!
YouTube: In 2018, the age of the YouTuber, you’ll be searching far and wide for an individual who doesn’t use the video doesn’t use the video sharing website on a daily basis. It would be an even greater rarity to find somebody completely unaware of the websites existence (please, correct me if I’m wrong…). With such a wide target audience and number of frequent users, YouTube was proactive and quick to get on board the VR hype- well it would be rude not to, wouldn’t it! YouTube provides Virtual Reality for virtually every taste (no pun intended there, I promise!), with video’s ranging from wildlife to a glimpse of the popular Netflix series Stranger Things for those looking for a fright! After Fox screened the 2017 Champions League Final in VR, the highlights video still in VR format is also available on YouTube. There really is something for virtually everyone- we really should stop that now!
Street Jump: Are you old enough to remember the technological craze of Crossy Road? You probably are with it being less than four years old (is that all!), despite the craze seeming a lifetime ago with technology continually in a state of change and development. The simplistic app was based around the simple concept of tapping the screen to move and jump to avoid objects and obstacles and quickly became a global phenomenon. With VR having really taken off in recent years, it is of little surprise a similar based concept has been devised in the form of VR. Utilised in 3D form, simply look in the direction you require your character to move and press the cardboard trigger to jump! Just be sure to watch out for cars, trucks and trains- or any other vehicle that moves. The only downside to this app, is that for a better experience, you will require a premium headset. But remember the fun you had playing Crossy Road- it will be a worthwhile investment!