Drop-in VR Gaming
Type:
Experience
Drop-in VR gaming is a great introduction into Virtual Reality technology that is fun and appeals to a young audience. In the images above at the Evergreen Library in San Jose, VR drop-in sessions are ran in the teen area on a casual basis. The sessions are assisted by a teen volunteer who manages the setup and teaches others.
Technology:
Virtual Reality
This experience uses a VR headset and controllers to completely immerse the user in a virtual world. Typical headsets include the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and PlayStation VR.
Theme:
Entertainment
This experiences focuses on entertainment through video games, popular games available on virtual reality platforms include Minecraft VR, Beatsaber and Job Simulator
Portability:
Tethered
Virtual reality gaming often requires a powerful external computer to run high quality gaming experiences that are attached to a VR headset via HDMI cable. The external computer can be a housed in a case or laptop, combine this with sensors and a screen makes portability low. At the Evergreen Library the system is mounted on a movable frame making setup much faster.
Spatial Requirements:
Standing
Video games that allow the player to move within a fixed space suggest a size of 3×3 metres.
Users:
Single
A single user experience per VR setup with the option of connecting a monitor to display the users point of view. This allows the audience to join in on the experience and makes giving instructions much easier.
Recommended Age:
Children, Youth
Most VR equipment used for drop-in gaming suggests a minimum user age of 13, we suggest this experience will be suitable for ages 13 – 21yrs. Supervision should be taken to ensure the participant meets the video games classification guidelines.
Staffing:
One
This experience would require one staff member or volunteer to setup the equipment, take bookings and guide new users.