A new sort of virtual-reality experience called The Void blends elements of augmented reality and tactile input with the capabilities of a VR rig to create a 21st-century theme park.
The Void will utilize a new VR headset called the Rapture HMD, in conjunction with “gaming pods,” motion simulators, and 3D spaces to offer a selection of VR games across The Vision of Infinite Dimensions. Imagine jumping from sci-fi to medieval times and the ancient past—you get the idea.
Players will also wear a vest and gloves to provide haptic input, like feeling when a virtual bullet strikes a player, or manipulating buttons on a control panel. The Void is also advertising that its VR games will use temperature, “simulated liquids,” and smell to create its gaming illusions.
The video looks interesting, but anyone who’s tried VR will tell you that sharing the experience with someone who has never tried VR is tough. Virtual reality is all about engaging the senses and creating illusions. Trying to explain the experience through words or marketing videos does not do VR justice.
No one will have any idea if The Void can follow through on its promises until they step into a virtual entertainment center. That curiosity could certainly be a money maker if the cost of entry is reasonable, considering that virtual reality sets like the Oculus Rift or Steam VR will probably be too expensive for the average consumer to buy. Attractions like The Void may be the only way some people get to experience virtual reality for themselves.
