When two people on your team argue over who’s the bigger RoboQuest fanboy — and both of them are sitting well past 100 hours in the game — you get a pretty good sense of how this project started.

Before RoboQuest ever came to VR, Impact Reality and Flat2VR Studios COO Eric Masher had already sunk around 125 hours into the original flatscreen roguelite. Lead designer Tsveten had gone even further: all achievements unlocked, countless runs, and, as he jokes, “probably 126 hours” — just enough to stay ahead.

That level of obsession is important, because RoboQuest VR isn’t a quick “slap motion controls on it” port. It’s a case study in how to turn a beloved PC/console title into a true VR-first experience — one that keeps all the depth and scope of the original while fully embracing what makes VR special.

And it all started because a fan took a plane to Sweden, uninvited, to knock on a publisher’s door.

From Superfans to Developers

Unlike a lot of studios where leadership treats games purely as a business, this team lives in roguelites.

Eric describes himself as someone who “tests a lot of games” for work — which also happens to be the excuse he gives his wife and daughter when they catch him grinding another run. He first discovered RoboQuest on Steam as a standard flatscreen shooter and immediately recognized something important:

This felt like a VR game waiting to happen.

The movement, the scale of the arenas, the verticality, the fast-paced combat — none of it raised the usual red flags that make some flatscreen games terrible VR candidates. Instead, it felt like the original devs might have had VR in the back of their minds the whole time.

So after Trombone Champ VR, Eric went to his partners — Jasmine Uniza (CEO/producer), Skiva, and Elliott — and said:

“One of the first games we should try to get is this amazing roguelite published by Starbreeze. They’re in Sweden. Can I go to Sweden and talk to them?”

What he actually meant was, “Can I fly across the world, completely uninvited, walk up to Starbreeze’s office, and ring the bell?”

Somehow, the answer was still yes.

Eric showed up at Starbreeze’s door, snapped a photo of their nameplate, sent it back to the team, and rang. By sheer luck, the head of business development was there, had time after lunch, and invited him up.

Eric pulled out his laptop and started showing what Flat2VR Studios had done with Trombone Champ in VR. It impressed them so much that the BD lead literally pulled the Payday dev team out of their meeting to come over and watch. They crowded around a tiny table, looking at a laptop screen, to see what this little VR studio was doing.

That impromptu demo is where the RoboQuest VR story began. The contract followed not long after.

Why RoboQuest Feels Better in VR

At its core, RoboQuest is a fast, kinetic roguelite shooter with heavy emphasis on movement and verticality. On a monitor, you get a taste of that. In VR, you live it.

For Eric, the biggest difference is scale:

“The second level is this vertical city. On a 27-inch monitor it’s cool, but when you’re in a headset, standing on those skyscrapers and physically looking down, the sense of height and scope is something you just can’t get on a flat screen.”

Players often only see the early canyon level and don’t realize how vertical later stages become. In VR, that verticality hits harder: grappling across gaps, climbing, dropping off ledges, and lining up aerial shots all feel more intuitive when your whole body is engaged.

Lead designer Tsveten, a lifelong shooter fan, loves how VR changes the feel of combat:

• Left hand firing the grappling hook
• Right hand deploying ability devices or weapons
• Head and torso tracking independently as you scan for threats

You’re not just pressing keys to dodge and strafe — you’re physically turning, leaning, reaching, and reacting. The result?

“It almost feels like a different game. You start approaching levels differently. Once you play in VR, going back to flat, you expect a certain intensity that just isn’t the same.”

A Full-Fat Roguelite in VR — Not a Tech Demo

One of the most striking things about RoboQuest VR is what didn’t get cut.

The original flatscreen game was in development for around five years with a team of roughly 30 people. It’s packed with content:

• 80+ weapons
• Multiple classes
• Procedurally generated maps
• Deep perk and upgrade systems

Producer Jasmine Uniza came into the project without much history with the flatscreen version. From her perspective as a fresh RoboQuest player, the sheer amount of content was shocking:

“This game is loaded. VR sometimes gets this reputation for feeling like tech demos or watered-down versions of non-VR games. RoboQuest VR is stacked to the gills. You’ll get at least 125 or 126 hours in it.”

Eric puts it more bluntly: most roguelites built from the ground up for VR are great ideas constrained by budget. They tend to be shallower, with fewer weapons and less long-term progression. RoboQuest, on the other hand, is a full-fledged PC/console game dropped into VR almost intact.

“People have been asking for years: don’t give us a VR tech demo, give us the full game. RoboQuest is that — a traditional PC/console roguelite with hundreds of hours of content, now in VR.”

Rethinking the HUD: Information on Your Hands

One of the hardest parts of bringing RoboQuest to VR wasn’t enemies or levels — it was the HUD.

On a monitor, your health, cooldowns, minimap, level-up notifications and status effects can all float at the edges of the screen. In VR, cluttering your view like that is a fast track to discomfort and confusion.

So Tsveten and the team set themselves a challenge:

How do you surface all that information only when needed, without ever leaving VR’s sense of presence?

The answer was simple in theory and beautifully executed in practice:

put the UI on your body.

The Wrist-Mounted Minimap

In the flatscreen game, you rely on a minimap overlay because the levels are huge and procedurally generated. In RoboQuest VR, that minimap has been moved to your left wrist, like a holographic watch.

• Flick your wrist up: a projection of the map appears.
• Keep shooting with your right hand while you glance at routes or enemy positions.
• Red dots show enemy locations, letting you track that one sniper you can’t visually spot.

Eric, who always used the minimap flat, calls this one of his favorite changes:

“Being able to check the map while shooting with the other hand — that’s just not even possible in the traditional game.”

Ironically, Tsveten barely used the minimap in flatscreen, but in VR he calls it a must-have. That’s how natural it feels to just raise your wrist mid-firefight.

Gadgets on Your Arms

To handle health, cooldowns, and other key data, the team leaned into a similar approach: forearm gadgets.

Your robot avatar doesn’t just hold guns — your arms are now wrapped with small devices displaying information through animations, sparkles, and visual cues. It’s not just functional UI; it visually reinforces the fantasy that you are a futuristic combat bot, wired up with tech.

Perks You Physically Grab

The perk system is one of RoboQuest’s best features, but in the flatscreen game there’s a common problem: you’re in the middle of chaos, a tiny “Level Up” indicator pops up, and you completely ignore it. Players often end up with multiple unspent perks without realizing it.

In VR, the team flipped that experience.

When you level up:

• You feel a rumble in your controller.
• A device on your hand emits sparkles, drawing your eye.
• A set of perk cards appears in front of you.

You literally reach out, grab a card, inspect it, and choose your build. It’s tactile and impossible to ignore — exactly the way a roguelite should feel in VR.

The design goal was clear: make leveling up feel like a physical moment rather than a UI popup. According to the team, it worked. Testers stopped missing their upgrades and started engaging with the depth of the perk system far more consistently.

80+ Weapons, 80+ Ways to Reload

If there’s a single area where the VR conversion screams “labor of love,” it’s the weapons.

In flatscreen RoboQuest, guns are wildly diverse — from junk rifles to absurd cannons to water guns and more. In VR, every one of those weapons now has its own manual reload logic:

• Eject magazines
• Slam in fresh mags
• Grab and insert huge shells
• Fiddle with stranger mechanisms on exotic guns

You can inspect every weapon closely, admire the design, and then learn each reload as its own little micro-game.

“It was a sizable challenge to bring every weapon’s reload into VR,” says Tsveten. “But I actually prefer manual reloading now — that extra step of physical immersion just feels right.”

For Jasmine, who doesn’t consider herself a “shooter person,” this turned every loot chest into a little moment of joy:

“Every time I open a new box, it’s like a goodie bag. The gun isn’t just new stats; it feels new in your hands. When I paired the Beluga Cannon with an ice perk, it was like snow falling on Christmas Day.”

Status Effects You Can See and Feel

Another area the team refused to phone in was status effects.

On a monitor, fire, freeze, or stun are often conveyed through screen tints and UI symbols. In VR, that can be messy, or even nauseating, if overdone. Instead, RoboQuest VR does something smarter:

• On fire? Your hands and weapon ignite.
• Frozen or slowed? Your hands and gun take on icy effects.
• Stunned? You’re knocked slightly “out of your body,” with your hands frozen in mid-air.

To break out of a stun, you perform a small physical mini-game: shake your controllers to snap back into action. It’s the VR equivalent of the flatscreen version’s “hit W-W-A” type key sequence — but way more entertaining to watch.

Jasmine tells a story of seeing Eric do this in person during a work trip:

“He’s in the headset, bracelets and watch jingling, just shaking as fast as he can. He looked like a little kid who’s way too excited for school. It was hilarious — and all born out of the team refusing to just map it to a button press.”

This Is Not a Mindless Shooter

Under the chaos, RoboQuest is a deeply strategic roguelite.

Eric’s biggest piece of advice for new players: take perks seriously.

Every time you level up, you get four choices. They might boost:

• Health or shields
• Movement speed
• Specific weapon types
• Resource pickup range
• Elemental or status effects
• Or niche mechanics that completely change your run

There are thousands of potential perk combinations. On top of that, between stages you can invest in meta-progression and weapon upgrades, layering long-term strategy on top of moment-to-moment choices.

“Every decision you make affects how far you get,” Eric says. “Take your time. Read your perks. Build the run you want instead of just clicking the first one to get back to shooting.”

This isn’t just theory. Even with hundreds of hours in RoboQuest, Eric watched Jasmine unlock perks he had literally never seen before while she went on a monster run that earned an S rank. That’s how deep the system goes.

Explore Everywhere: Secrets Reward Verticality

If perks are Eric’s obsession, exploration is Tsveten’s mantra.

“If you see a ledge, climb it. See a door, open it. Look for waterfalls. Look for buttons — especially red ones. There are hidden things everywhere.”

Once you unlock all the gadgets, RoboQuest VR gives you the freedom to really lean into its vertical design. Climbing, grappling, and parkouring your way through arenas isn’t just for style points — it often leads to secrets and rewards.

In VR, that sense of exploration hits harder. Looking down from a high ledge you just scaled yourself feels fundamentally different than simply holding a jump button on a controller.

Launching on Eric’s Birthday

RoboQuest VR is launching on PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR on November 20, which also happens to be Eric’s birthday — an unplanned but perfect gift for the guy who flew across the world on a hunch that this game belonged in VR.

From obsessive fans to uninvited doorstep pitches to carefully reimagined mechanics, RoboQuest VR is more than a port. It’s an argument for what VR conversions can be when you respect both the source material and the medium you’re moving into.

It keeps the content, the depth, the replayability — the hundreds of hours and 80+ weapons — and then layers on:

• True sense of scale and verticality
• Physical reloading and weapon handling
• Body-based UI and wrist-mounted tools
• Perks you grab with your own hands
• Status effects you can see and feel

If you’ve ever wished VR would stop giving you “almost” versions of full games and deliver the real thing, RoboQuest VR is exactly that wish made real — with a grappling hook, a junk rifle, and maybe a frozen Beluga cannon in your off-hand.

The post RoboQuest VR: The Full-Fledged Roguelite VR Has Been Waiting For first appeared on XR Update.

At Impact Reality, our mission has always been to support the growth of virtual reality—from helping studios bring their visions to life, to connecting games with the audiences they deserve. As our work has expanded beyond marketing and community engagement, we’ve found new ways to contribute to the evolution of VR itself.

That’s why we’re proud to introduce Impact Inked, a new publishing label dedicated to immersive games built from the ground up for virtual reality.

Not every great VR title begins as a flat game, and not every project fits within the core mission of Flat2VR Studios. With Impact Inked, we’re carving out a home for a different kind of project—original VR-first games that push boundaries and explore new ideas, while still benefiting from the full strength of our publishing and marketing support.

This new label gives us the flexibility to support innovative developers in new ways, providing funding, feedback, publishing, marketing, and more—all tailored for the unique needs of VR. Impact Inked is our way of leveling up the support we offer, equipping our partners with the tools and support they need to deliver high-quality, original VR experiences.

You won’t find direct ports or adaptations here. The games under this label are built for VR from the start. Some introduce entirely new IPs. Others expand on existing universes in unexpected and immersive ways. All of them share one thing in common: they embrace the full potential of VR, offering players new ways to explore, interact, and experience.

Impact Inked is the natural evolution of our all-in-one approach to supporting the VR industry. Just as Impact Reality was created to provide end-to-end PR and marketing services, Impact Inked opens the door to deeper collaboration—where we can back exceptional VR games from concept to launch and beyond.

This is just the beginning. In the coming weeks, you’ll start to see the Impact Inked label appear on a variety of exciting upcoming titles. We can’t wait to share what’s next.

Let’s build the future of VR together.

The post Introducing Impact Inked – Making Our Mark on the VR Landscape first appeared on XR Update.

In an era where the music industry is being reimagined by streaming platforms, AI-generated content, and algorithmic discovery, a new force is emerging, not from record labels or tech giants, but from the artists themselves. At the forefront of this movement is Anne McKinnon, CEO of Ristband, whose work at the intersection of live performance, immersive technology, and digital art is creating a new blueprint for how music can be experienced and monetized. Ristband isn’t just building tools, it’s building a future where artists can bypass outdated industry models, connect directly with audiences, and redefine what it means to tour, perform, and engage.

This evolution was on full display at SXSW 2025, where Ristband’s Future x Music Showcase offered a glimpse into what tomorrow’s concerts might look and feel like. It was a vibrant, genre-defying collision of sound, visuals, and virtual landscapes, featuring everything from traditional sets to modular mixed reality concerts that ran multiple times each night. In a festival known for innovation, this showcase didn’t just fit in, it stood out as a declaration that the next era of music is immersive, interactive, and already here.

XR Update met up with Anne McKinnon at SXSW and asked her about her work in music and technology. She told us,“The future of live music won’t be dictated by hype, technology companies, or media spin.” Adding, “It will be guided by what has always moved the industry—songwriting, unforgettable concerts, and the connection between artists and fans. Immersive experiences won’t replace this. They will elevate it.”

At this year’s SXSW, that philosophy came to life at the Ristband Future x Music Showcase, a vibrant collision of live music, immersive technology, and digital art. What began four years ago as a modest mixed reality concert inside a 100-person theater has now exploded into a full-blown takeover of the British Music Embassy and Future Art and Culture venues. With multiple bands, real-time AV installations, and modular VR concerts running in tandem, the event marked a major shift, not just in music performance, but in the business of music itself.

This is more than a showcase. It’s about Ristband’s bold vision for a new music economy, and how immersive technology, spatial computing, and creative innovation are giving rise to a generation of artists who can thrive without the old industry gatekeepers.

Anne McKinnon’s Vision: Music Without Boundaries

Ristband is reshaping what it means to tour, perform, and connect. Their mixed reality concert model allows artists to perform multiple immersive shows in a single night, sometimes across different venues, often without being physically present. The result? A sustainable touring model that lowers costs, increases reach, and reinvents what “live music” can be.

“Immersive experiences act as an extension of what an artist is already doing, not a replacement,” says McKinnon. She cites artists like Pivots and Venice Bleach, both of whom have performed their mixed reality concerts worldwide, even before releasing full EPs. Their shows have opened film festivals, filled art galleries, and brought in enough income to support recording sessions, all without label support.

The key, McKinnon says, is modularity. “Our immersive concerts and AV installations are designed to fit into a carry-on bag. Artists can perform in a warehouse, a gallery, or at a tech conference. And the experience is scalable.”

This approach isn’t just for superstar acts. It’s for emerging artists, those who are often overlooked by traditional festival lineups and streaming algorithms. “In a world where 100,000 songs are uploaded to Spotify every day,” McKinnon adds, “immersive gives artists another way to rise above the noise.”

A Showcase Built for the Future

At SXSW 2025, Ristband’s Future x Music Showcase demonstrated the full potential of its immersive music model. The event brought together live sets from seven genre-defying artists, including a standout performance by the UK band Pivots, whose mixed reality concert combined VR headsets with reactive LED visuals built using game engines and Maxon C4D.

Surrounding these performances were a range of AV installations and projection-based experiences that transformed the venue into an interactive, multi-sensory space. The entire showcase was elevated by spatial audio integration, powered by d&b audiotechnik’s Soundscape system, which wrapped the audience in a fully immersive sonic environment.

The atmosphere was electric, equal parts gritty underground club, digital art gallery, and experimental performance space. In a city famous for blending tech, film, gaming, and music, Ristband made it clear, the future of live music is immersive, interactive, and scalable.

Roman Rappak and Pivots: Building a New Music Model

XR Update also talked with frontman Roman Rappak, bassist and vocalist of Pivots and co-founder of Ristband. He told us that he spent the past decade experimenting with the intersection of music and technology. “You saw the really indie early days show,” he recalls of their first SXSW appearance as the band Miro Shot. “Tiny theater, basic headsets, gaffer tape holding things together. But SXSW let us experiment, cut what didn’t work, and refine what did.”

Today, that experiment has become a fully realized experience. Pivots’ whose sound can only be described as something like Dystopian Dreamwave meets Neon Nocturne meets Cyberwave Noir, played a set of music at the British Music Embassy that was a stunning blend of post-punk futurism, sample-based noise, and spatially reactive visuals. Their single “She Wears It Well” played out like a cybernetic goth lullaby in a dreamscape that seamlessly merged reality with virtual immersion. It leaned on broken structure (but in the most amazing way) that had post-punk and darkwave roots. According to Rappik and the band, that was the goal!

“A good live performance should have a kind of organized chaos,” Rappak says. “Technology, when done right, becomes an extension of the self, like an instrument. It’s not about control, it’s about symbiosis.” But beyond the artistry lies a deeper argument: that immersive tech is giving birth to an entirely new musical genre, one built not just on sound, but on experience.

“We’re at the precipice of a new era,” said Rappak. “Every major musical revolution, rock and roll, hip-hop, electronic, was driven by a new technology. Today, it’s spatial audio, game engines, and interactive design.”

And the economics are just as transformative. Before, you needed tour support, a label, and streams. Now, Pivots are getting booked at festivals like OFFF Barcelona because of their immersive concerts. “We’re not replacing live music, we’re expanding it.”

According to Rappak, we are standing at the edge of a transformative era in music, one that redefines not only how music is performed and experienced, but how it lives and thrives in the world. The shows Pivots are building now, using game engines, spatial audio, and immersive technology, are just the tip of the iceberg. These aren’t just novel formats, they are early blueprints for a fundamentally different kind of artistic existence.

Rappak tells us that trying to explain this to people who’ve been entrenched in the traditional music industry often proves challenging. Their understanding of success, distribution, and engagement was shaped by an entirely different system. So instead, the conversation now is better aimed at those who are actively building the future, artists, technologists, creators who use game engines, and people who are ready to imagine new ways forward.

Every day, 100,000 new tracks are uploaded to Spotify. The sheer noise makes it harder than ever for artists to reach their audiences. Each stream pays roughly $0.003, while two decades ago, a single fan might’ve paid $10 for an album. That economic model, the one most musicians have been taught to chase, is gone. It’s no longer viable. We’ve seen countless artists speak up about this. But while one system fades, another is emerging. And it’s not about “tech,” or “VR,” or even “gaming” as isolated categories. It’s about a seismic shift in how humans consume media, arguably the biggest in a thousand years.

Today, we are seeing over 3 billion gamers across the globe. The immersive entertainment market was valued at over $114 billion in 2024. On any given day, more than a million people are inside platforms like Fortnite, not just playing, but socializing, exploring, discovering culture. This is a world the traditional music industry doesn’t know how to access. Its business models don’t align with the behaviors of these digital-native audiences. But this new landscape, one rooted in experience, play, and participation, is starving for music, the kind of emotional storytelling that only songs can provide.

The future isn’t waiting for the industry to catch up. It’s already unfolding in digital spaces, virtual stages, and immersive venues said Rappak. And for artists willing to embrace this shift, it opens the door to a new way of existing, one that bypasses the bottlenecks of old and taps directly into a global, interactive, and infinitely scalable community. The music industry may not be invited to this party yet, but artists are and as Rappak enthusiastically says, “it’s going to be a fantastic ride!”

New Tools, New Audiences, New Revenue

Ristband’s model doesn’t stop with VR concerts. Their AV installations and projection-based shows don’t require the artist to be present, allowing performances to take place at galleries, film festivals, and immersive arts venues worldwide. “Suddenly, artists can generate income and build buzz even when they’re not on the road,” says McKinnon.

They’re also working closely with tech partners like d&b audiotechnik, enabling fully spatialized audio that wraps audiences in 360-degree sound. “We can now offer an experience that isn’t just visual, it’s total immersion,” McKinnon explains.

With venues around the world installing systems like Soundscape, the demand for content that can fully utilize immersive infrastructure is growing. Ristband is helping fill that gap, not just with artists like Pivots and Venice Bleach, but also by doing PR for festivals and creators who are redefining music’s relationship with technology.

One such creator is Gadi Sassoon, whose upcoming album Modes of Vibration will be released as a record, live show, installation, and even a virtual instrument called Tetrad.

“These are the kinds of crossovers we’re seeing,” McKinnon says. “Music as software, as experience, as presence.”

A New Ecosystem for Music

Ristband’s approach goes beyond innovation, it’s about building a new ecosystem, one where emerging artists can thrive, venues can evolve, and fans can engage in deeper, more personal ways.

McKinnon sums it up best, “This isn’t a replacement for live music. It’s a new layer. Just like music videos didn’t replace concerts, immersive experiences will become another essential touchpoint in an artist’s journey.”

In the end, Ristband isn’t just showing us where music is going. They’re building the road, equipping artists with the tools to not just survive, but to lead the next great movement in sound, performance, and connection.

One of the clearest signs that this shift is not only underway but accelerating is the rise of venues purpose-built for immersive experiences. The Las Vegas Sphere, with its state-of-the-art LED screen wrapping around a 360-degree interior and ultra-precise spatial audio system, represents a new breed of performance space, one where concerts become fully cinematic, multi-sensory journeys. Rather than simply watching a show, audiences are plunged into a narrative world where sound, light, and architecture work in perfect harmony. Meanwhile, Coachella and other major music festivals are leaning heavily into immersive art installations, XR activations, and extended reality performances, transforming music gatherings into interactive landscapes.

These aren’t fringe experiments anymore, they’re setting the standard. Immersive isn’t an add-on; it’s quickly becoming the main event. Festivals, venues, and audiences are all responding to the desire for more depth, more sensation, and more meaning in live experiences. It’s no longer just about hearing the music, it’s about living inside it.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that music and technology are no longer separate domains, they’re converging into a unified creative frontier. Platforms like Ristband are laying the groundwork for a post-streaming music industry where live performance is no longer bound by geography, physical venues, or traditional gatekeepers. The rise of spatial audio, immersive environments, and modular experiences opens up a world where artists become world-builders, and fans aren’t just listeners, they’re participants. In this evolving landscape, the most impactful artists won’t be defined solely by genre or chart position, but by their ability to craft meaningful, multi-sensory experiences that resonate across both digital and physical worlds.

The stage is no longer a place, it’s a dimension. And it’s only just beginning to open up and if SXSW 2025 was any indication, the movement has already begun.

The post Digital Reality is the Stage: How Ristband is Rewriting the Rules of Live Music first appeared on XR Update.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just stepping onto the virtual courts for the first time, there’s never been a better time to grab your racket, challenge friends, and immerse yourself in one of the most social and competitive VR experiences available.

Pickleball Moves from the Lab to Center Court

For those who’ve been keeping an eye on Racket Club’s Lab area, pickleball has been a fan-favorite for months. Now, it’s officially part of the main club, bringing a polished rule set and authentic foul tracking for a more competitive and realistic experience. No more relying on the honor system—now, the game’s smart tracking ensures every serve, volley, and point stays true to the real-world sport.

With pickleball’s explosive growth in the real world, it’s no surprise that it’s now a core part of Racket Club’s expanding lineup. Whether you’re practicing your dinks or smashing winners past your opponent, this addition ensures players can enjoy the fast-paced, strategic gameplay of one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.

Not stopping at just one new addition, Racket Club is also introducing table tennis to the mix! Available exclusively in the Lab (for now), this new addition aims to deliver realistic physics and smooth paddle handling, rivaling some of the best VR table tennis experiences out there.

Players can compete in singles and doubles matches, perfecting their backspin and smashes while still enjoying Racket Club’s signature social atmosphere. Whether you’re casually rallying with friends or testing your reflexes against a skilled opponent, this new mode promises an engaging, true to life experience.

More Than Just a Game – A Thriving Virtual Sports Club

Racket Club has always been a place for players to meet, socialize, and compete in a shared virtual space. With this update, the entire club has been redesigned, featuring new courts, enhanced social spaces, and a refreshed look that makes jumping into matches smoother and more engaging than ever.

And for those who love customization, the new in-game shop lets players earn coins through daily and weekly missions to unlock fresh outfits and accessories. Want to stand out on the court with some stylish new gear? Now you can.

For solo players, Racket Club’s AI opponents have also received a serious upgrade. Using advanced machine learning, Resolution Games has developed bots that mimic real player behaviors, making single-player matches feel more authentic and challenging. Whether you’re practicing against AI or taking on real opponents, the game is constantly evolving to provide smarter, more adaptive gameplay.

Racket Club’s latest update is a game-changer for VR sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re rallying in pickleball, perfecting your spin in table tennis, or engaging in intense box tennis and spinminton battles, there’s never been a better time to step into the Racket-Verse.

The post How Racket Club’s Latest Update Brings Pickleball & Table Tennis to VR first appeared on XR Update.

In EPYKA, you step into the role of archaeologist Scott Hudson, an adventurer drawn to an uncharted island brimming with mystery and ancient magic. You’re not alone on this journey—your loyal canine companion, Jack, is by your side, ready to assist with puzzles and guide you through the island’s enchanting yet perilous terrain. Together, you’ll uncover secrets of Earth’s first civilization, but be warned: the stakes couldn’t be higher. The fate of humankind hinges on your courage and ingenuity.

The island in EPYKA is a feast for the senses, offering glistening coastlines, lush forests, and spellbound ruins that tell tales of civilizations long past. The attention to detail in the environment is fantastic. Each area feels alive, waiting to reveal its secrets to the curious explorer. EPYKA presents a world designed for discovery, allowing players to explore its secrets freely and at their own pace.

EPYKA’s gameplay thrives on discovery and interaction and with its intuitive VR controls, make every action—whether commanding Jack to help solve a puzzle or wielding magical powers—feel natural. The puzzles are thoughtfully designed, encouraging you to think creatively and rely on environmental cues. Solving them rewards the player, not just with progress, but a deeper connection to the island’s mysterious lore.

At the core of EPYKA is Jack, your ever-faithful canine companion. Jack plays a pivotal role, building a bond with players that adds depth to every success and challenge along the way. His presence adds a layer of warmth to the adventure, ensuring that you’re never truly alone, even in the most daunting moments.

Visually, EPYKA is beautiful. Its vibrant art style breathes life into every corner of the island, creating a world that feels tangible and magical. With its compelling narrative, engaging gameplay, and breathtaking visuals, EPYKA is a must-play for anyone looking to experience the magic of VR.

Uncover Earth’s first civilization and forge bonds that will stay with you long after the headset comes off. Epyka is available NOW on the Meta Quest platform.

The post EPYKA: A Thrilling VR Adventure Through Earth’s Hidden Past first appeared on XR Update.

In Fitness Fables, you don the mantle of a Guardian tasked with restoring balance to a fractured realm. Every action, from casting spells to battling monstrous foes, translates to real-world exercise. Whether you’re rowing across glimmering waterways or skiing through frosty landscapes, your physical efforts propel the story forward. It’s fitness, storytelling, and adventure wrapped into one unforgettable package.

A story-driven adventure, Fitness Fables will keep you captivated for hours. With 80 immersive levels spanning roughly 24 hours of gameplay, the game weaves a rich narrative filled with mystery, magic, and hidden challenges. Progress is all about achieving epic milestones as you work to restore balance to Alterterra, one workout at a time.

No matter your fitness level, Fitness Fables has you covered with its adaptive difficulty settings. Whether you’re a beginner easing into a new workout routine or a seasoned athlete seeking a challenge, the game adjusts to suit your skill level. As you progress, you’ll unlock new gear, uncover hidden storylines, and see your fitness evolve alongside the narrative.

The gameplay integrates over 25 real-world exercises seamlessly into its mechanics, making every movement count. Actions like squats, arm rotations are the foundation of your in-game abilities. Whether you’re closing portals or powering up magical cannons, your physical effort translates into tangible results in both the game and your fitness journey.

Boss battles in Fitness Fables are a workout in themselves, adding a dynamic twist to traditional gameplay. These encounters demand rhythm, timing, and strategic movements rather than simple button-mashing. Raising your shield, striking battle drums, or blocking attacks with precise gestures ensures that every victory feels like an accomplishment, both in-game and physically.

Adding to its charm is a vibrant and supportive community of players who share your passion for fitness and adventure. Compete on leaderboards, exchange tips, and celebrate milestones together, all while benefiting from Immersion Games’ commitment to ongoing updates and enhancements. Built by a passionate team of 20 developers and fitness professionals, Fitness Fables builds upon lessons learned from Divine Duel, another hit game from Immersion Games.

Fitness Fables is available for pre-order now on the Meta Horizon Store. Whether you’re looking to level up your fitness journey or simply explore a fantastical new world, this game promises an unforgettable blend of adventure and exercise.

Don’t just work out—save the world while you’re at it.

The post Fitness Fables: Save the World While you Workout in VR first appeared on XR Update.

Few games push the boundaries of augmented reality (AR) and religion as boldly as Devil’s Purge. Developed by Nuno Folhadela and his team at ONTOP, this roguelike first-person shooter (FPS) redefines mobile gaming by blending the intensity of DOOM with the real-world exploration of Pokémon GO. Players physically dodge, hunt, and battle demons, transforming their iPhones into powerful exorcism machines in a spiritual and action-packed fight against evil.

According to the official press release, “Devil’s Purge is a celebration of resilience, where overcoming challenges aims to build real-life confidence.” Folhadela and his team wanted a game that was a modern ode to ’90s hardcore gaming infused with a heavy metal attitude, blending augmented reality with Catholicism, and leveraging your iPhone as a key mechanic of the experience, and that’s exactly what you get!

Step Into the Role of a Demon Slayer

In Devil’s Purge, this is no mere game, it’s a battle for the soul of humanity. You are not just a player, you are a chosen warrior, called to stand against the darkness and protect the mortal world from an unholy invasion.

Armed with the sacred blessings of divine champions like Saint Michael, the archangel of battle, Gabriel, the heavenly messenger, and Raphael, the angelic healer, you wield the power of heaven itself to drive back the devil’s relentless hordes. Every clash is a testament to God’s will, and every victory brings hope to a world on the brink of despair. The eternal struggle between good and evil has come to your hands and the question is, will you answer the call?

A Bold Blend of Faith and Action

The inspiration behind Devil’s Purge is a fascinating blend of gaming classics, cultural heritage, and deeply personal questions about faith and morality. Folhadela traces its mechanical roots back to Killer7, a cult classic by Suda51 and Shinji Mikami.

During an interview with XR Update, Folhadela said, “Killer7 is one of my favorite games of all time,” adding “but as time progressed, and being aware that AR gaming is still new to the majority of players, we wanted a concept that was easy to grasp. The battle between good and evil, aka the Devil, started to take shape.”

As mentioned earlier in this article, when it came to gameplay, Folhadela and his team looked to the adrenaline-pumping intensity of DOOM Eternal. With prototype demons roaming their studio, they leaned heavily into first-person shooter mechanics to create a thrilling yet accessible experience. “DOOM Eternal quickly became the main reference for gameplay,” he explains. This fusion of AR technology and FPS mechanics allowed the team to craft an immersive world where players must physically dodge, crouch, and maneuver to survive.

When asked to describe Devil’s Purge as a combination of three elements, Folhadela’s response is as bold and unconventional as the game itself: DOOM, Christianity, and startup life.

“DOOM, because it’s all about wild action and blasting demons in style,” he explains. The influence of the iconic FPS game is evident in the intense, fast-paced battles that define Devil’s Purge.

Christianity plays an equally significant role, not just in the game’s narrative but in its deeper message. “Christianity, with all its good and bad aspects, has a core message that is clear, you are loved,” Folhadela shares. This perspective imbues the game with a sense of spiritual purpose, weaving themes of faith and resilience into the action-packed gameplay.

And then there’s startup life, a surprising but fitting comparison. “It’s quite close to the old hardcore arcade games,” adding, “where resilience, perseverance, and focus are needed to succeed.” Just as players must overcome relentless waves of demons in Devil’s Purge, Folhadela sees parallels to the challenges and grit required to navigate the highs and lows of building something groundbreaking in the competitive gaming industry.

Let’s Get Heavy

The aesthetic and story of Devil’s Purge draw deeply from Folhadela’s Portuguese roots and the Baroque style, which he describes as “highly prevalent in Portugal due to the relevance of the Catholic Church.” With over 80% of Portuguese identifying as Roman Catholic, the Baroque’s dramatic art and rich mythology provided a fitting backdrop for the game’s narrative.

But Folhadela didn’t stop at surface-level inspiration, he used Devil’s Purge as a way to explore profound, often uncomfortable questions rooted in his own childhood experiences with religion. Heads up, it’s about to get pretty heavy.

“Why is the image of Christ in suffering perpetuated?” Folhadela asks. “Or, on a more personal level, why were me and other children not protected by God from a rough childhood?” These themes, woven into the game’s story, add depth and complexity, making Devil’s Purge much more than a simple battle between good and evil. Instead, it becomes a deeply personal exploration of faith, resilience, and the power of questioning longstanding beliefs.

We asked Folhadela, with biblical characters offering blessings to players, how do you ensure that the game stays respectful and engaging while still maintaining that high-action gameplay?

Respectful to whom said Folhadela, “It’s art, and my interpretation regarding the contact I had with Christianity, I’m baptized and went to Catechism. My goal is to have a game that honors the values of Christ, regarding good vs. evil, and most importantly, that you and I are loved.”, Folhedala passionately adds, “Not out of concern for how others might feel that can be seen as disrespectful, but for what I want to share.”

For Folhadela, he wanted the title to show the game’s objective, and it reflects directly what the player does in the game, purging the devil from the world. 

The use of high-action gameplay, where you’re an Exorcist fighting evil, the game metaphor just makes sense, and with Saint Michael at your side, the leader of heavenly armies you will surely kick some demon ass.

Defeating the Devil

“Active movement is key to this unique gaming experience,” said Folhadela. Players use their iPhone cameras to reveal demons and their flashlights to exorcise them with light. The mechanics are exhilarating, combining AR technology with fast-paced, strategic gameplay.

But the action isn’t just about reflexes, it’s also about strategy. “You’ll physically dodge and aim at macabre creatures’ hearts to make them explode in bursts of light.” said Folhadela during our conversation. With the iPhone camera, players reveal monstrous beings that must be exorcised using the device’s flashlight, requiring physical agility to evade attacks and sharp accuracy to strike at demons. Players can craft powerful builds with dozens of blessings like Vanquish, Constrict, and Smite, culminating in an epic showdown with the Devil himself.

Put On Your Workout Clothes When Battling the Devil

What truly sets Devil’s Purge apart is its emphasis on physical movement, and not just movement where you’re walking around looking around bushes to catch a critter. Battling the Devil and demons isn’t that simple and yes, battling the Devil will also burn a lot of calories!

Translating the action-packed gameplay of Devil’s Purge into a mobile AR experience was both a challenge and a triumph. Nuno Folhadela shares how the game’s physicality naturally evolved into a core mechanic. “Once players realize they can move, dodging, crouching, or circling behind a demon to exploit its weakness, it clicks,” he explains. Watching players embrace this level of immersion has been a rewarding experience for the team, who still cheer whenever someone uses their surroundings creatively in battle.

The physicality of the game adds a new layer of immersion, making every encounter feel like a real-world battle against evil. These mechanics not only deliver an intense gaming experience but also showcase AR’s potential for fitness and exploration.

As for the ultimate showdown with the Devil? Folhadela teases multiple phases and a few surprises for the most dedicated players.“Throughout the game, you’ll feel the characters rooting for you,” he says.“Only the Devil stands against you, but in the end… who knows? Maybe someone will change their mind.” It’s a fittingly dramatic finale for a game built on resilience, strategy, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

AR gaming gained mainstream attention with the release of Pokémon GO in 2016, which encouraged millions to explore their surroundings while interacting with digital content. Building on this legacy, Devil’s Purge takes AR to new heights by infusing it with adrenaline-pumping FPS action and a deeply immersive narrative. The game’s 60 procedurally generated levels and quick five-to-ten-minute runs ensure that it’s as accessible as it is engaging, while geolocation mechanics lead players to sacred places for extra powers.

Features That Set Devil’s Purge Apart from Others

Get ready to face hellish challenges in Devil’s Purge, where every moment counts and every run feels fresh:

• Quick Battles, Big Stakes: Dive into 5 to 10-minute runs that pack the intensity of a full-blown exorcism into bite-sized sessions, perfect for saving the world on your lunch break.
• Infinite Possibilities: With 60 procedurally generated levels, no two battles with demonic hordes are ever the same.
• Holy Power Combos: Build your arsenal with 50 blessings from celestial beings, crafting devastating combos to crush evil in style.
• Sacred Power-Ups: Venture to real-world sacred sites via the game’s geolocation map to unlock extra abilities that will tip the scales in your favor.
• A Feast for the Senses: Experience a Renaissance-inspired art style fused with the heavy metal energy of bands like Men Eater and Zero Massive.

This active gameplay not only makes Devil’s Purge an exhilarating experience but also hints at the future of fitness gaming.“Humans evolved to move and explore, not to be sedentary,” says Folhadela. “The AR medium brings experiences that make us interact with our surroundings, using our bodies and minds for a healthier and happier lifestyle.”

Devil’s Purge Showdown

In my last question to Folhadela, I asked him, what one demon from any pop culture universe would he love to face in a Devil’s Purge showdown, and how would he take them down?

“Hard to beat the Devil itself, right?” Folhadela muses. “But the first foe that comes to mind is Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII, one of my all-time favorite games.”

In Folhadela’s imagined battle, the legendary villain wouldn’t make things easy. “I’d add a time clock mechanic, with Sephiroth moving from real-world location to location, forcing me to chase him down for a final confrontation,” he explains. “When we finally face off, I’d need to flash him before each attack, blinding him momentarily, then drain his life force and trap him in my phone forever.”

It’s a fittingly dramatic and inventive scenario, blending Devil’s Purge’s signature AR mechanics with a nod to one of gaming’s most iconic antagonists.

Unleash Heaven’s Wrath: Face the Devil, Deliver Judgment

In Devil’s Purge, the eternal war between heaven and hell spills into your world, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Armed with divine blessings and wielding the piercing light of your mighty iPhone, you are humanity’s last hope against the Devil’s relentless horde. Each battle is a test of faith and fury, a clash of holy might against the unholy abyss. So step into the fire, exorcist, let the angels guide your aim, let your light burn through the shadows, and show the Devil that even the damned cannot escape judgment.

Devil’s Purge is available now on the Apple App store.

The post Exorcise Demons in AR: The Game That Turns Your Phone Into a Holy Weapon first appeared on XR Update.

For starters, the game recreates one of the most iconic horror movie moments of all time in the Demons scenario. Inspired by that infamous scene from The Ring, players place a virtual TV in their home and watch as the nightmare unfolds. It’s a high-tension experience that will leave even seasoned horror fans clutching their headsets.

And if that doesn’t send chills down your spine, Panic Room MR’s flagship fear simulator, Spiders, surely will. This mode turns your real-world home into ground zero for an arachnid invasion. Armed with bricks, nail guns, and even shotguns, players must fend off waves of spiders in all shapes and sizes. Miss a shot? You’ll see the consequences as bricks and bullets collide with your room in mixed reality, thanks to the game’s innovative MR room destruction technology—something only possible with Quest 3 hardware.

The developers have crafted Panic Room MR as an evolving experience, launching with these two demo scenarios but promising future updates based on community feedback. For those who thrive on capturing reactions and sharing them online, this title is a goldmine of scream-worthy content.

Whether you’re looking to showcase the latest in MR tech, prank a few friends, or simply test your own bravery, Panic Room MR is shaping up to be a must-have on Quest 3 this holiday season.

Pre-order now for $3.99 or grab it on release for $4.99, and prepare for the scares of a lifetime.

The post Panic Room MR: Mixed Reality Horror Hits Quest 3 first appeared on XR Update.

In recent years, virtual reality (VR) has transformed from a niche technology to a powerful medium for social interaction, fitness, gaming, and education. While VR is often associated with younger tech enthusiasts or industry professionals, a vibrant and growing community of users over 50 has emerged, proving that VR is not just a young person’s game. One Facebook group, “Virtual Reality Users Over 50,” with over 14,000 members globally, has become a central hub for these mature VR enthusiasts. Through daily posts, members share experiences, organize virtual events, and inspire each other to explore new worlds. XR Update recently interviewed several of these members, highlighting the inspiring ways they are embracing VR.

Why Are Users Over 50 Embracing VR?

For many in this age group, VR offers a unique opportunity to engage in activities that are challenging, fun, and accessible from home. Chris D. Limey, for example, started using VR to stay fit, especially during winter when outdoor workouts were less feasible. “The workouts on the apps have really got soooo much better over the last few years and can be a challenge for even the fittest of us,” he says. The convenience of virtual fitness programs, like Les Mills BODYCOMBAT, has allowed users like Chris to avoid tedious gym routines while staying active.

Others, like Bao Lau Oh, find VR fulfilling in a way traditional gaming isn’t: “When I play Xbox for a couple of hours, I feel like I wasted time. But when I play VR for a couple of hours, I feel like I got something done.” This sentiment highlights the unique immersion and satisfaction VR provides, allowing users to feel a sense of purpose through activities like working out, exploring new worlds, and completing intricate tasks.

Many group members are also finding VR gaming to be a satisfying way to engage with interactive and visually stunning worlds. Stephen D. Thomas, 55, loves action puzzle games and spends hours immersed in titles like Asgard’s Wrath 2, Red Matter 1 and 2, The Room VR, Hubris, and The Last Clockwinder. “I can spend hours inside those games getting lost in the scenery, action, and puzzles,” he says. In addition to gaming, he works out daily using apps like Supernatural, Les Mills BODYCOMBAT, and Audio Trip for exciting cardio sessions. Stephen also enjoys playing Walkabout Mini Golf as a “date night” activity with his wife, although he admits, “I do not enjoy the screaming kids in the social apps.”

For Debby Faye Helmig Burgard, 69, VR has become a daily fitness routine. Having started VR earlier this year, she now uses it to work out with apps like Supernatural, through which she has lost 10 pounds. Debby also uses Wander, an app that lets her revisit her hometown and explore new places virtually.

Connecting Across Distances and Generations

For many in this community, VR is not just about personal enrichment but also about connecting with others, regardless of age or location. Suzi Holman and her friends, who all know each other in real life, meet in Supernatural, a VR fitness app, to exercise together. She explains that the social aspect is endless, describing how VR allows them to get together to talk, laugh, and even watch movies together.

Lorelle VanFossen, another active member, has found a deep sense of community through social VR. “Social VR is where I’ve not just found a home but a lifestyle filled with supportive and positive people living a creative life.” Through VR, she has connected with people worldwide, learning about different cultures and finding meaningful friendships.

One member, Rick Yuhas, recently used the Facebook group to get members excited about a new VRChat world he helped create called Audience Anarchy. “We have just started a 50+ group instance of Audience Anarchy in VRChat if anyone is interested,” he posted, receiving enthusiastic responses and questions from members.

If you don’t know, Audience Anarchy is an interactive, often humorous game where participants can either act as characters with a script, adding their own improv, or serve as audience members who suggest words to be inserted into the script, much like Mad Libs but all in VR. “This tends to be rather ribald and often somewhat vulgar, yet always hysterical,” Rick says, adding that the game is best for those who enjoy a bit of edgy humor.

A Hub for VR Tips, Hacks, and Hardware Insights

Not only are members of the “Virtual Reality Users Over 50” group connecting within VR, but they’re also using the group as a resource for everything VR-related. Members actively share tips on getting the most out of their VR experiences, discuss new hardware, and exchange the latest hacks for making VR more fun and accessible. Whether it’s troubleshooting equipment issues, discovering new apps, or offering advice on comfort and accessibility, the group has become an invaluable space for users who are passionate about VR. This sharing of knowledge helps both new and seasoned VR users stay informed and excited about the latest in VR technology.

Eliminating Isolation with VRTogether

One of the most significant contributions to this community comes from VRTogether, an organization founded by VR artist Richard Hoagland. Inspired by his experience with his aging mother, who struggled with isolation, Hoagland used VR to connect with her by attending virtual church services together. He noticed that she felt particularly fulfilled when singing with the congregation, which motivated him to create VRTogether to combat isolation and loneliness for others.

VRTogether focuses on health and wellness, especially for populations at risk of isolation. Their latest initiative, the VR Singing Club, uses the power of music to foster connection and improve well-being. Hoagland explains that the VR club is focused on increasing health, happiness, and well-being for all people. Through this evidence-based platform, VRTogether aims to bring joy and community to those who need it most, proving that VR can have a profound impact on mental and emotional health for those in their 50s and older. Of course, the club is open to everyone who wants to join.

Building Virtual Worlds and Fostering Nostalgia

Some VR users over 50 have taken their interests to creative and nostalgic heights. Debra Schneider, 71, has been building virtual worlds for over a decade and is now running a Star Trek-themed community in VR, where she and her fellow crew members explore the galaxy together. Schneider tells XR Update that her goal has always been to keep Star Trek alive in the Metaverse.

In one of her Facebook group posts, Schneider says, “The majority of the people on my virtual crew are over 50. I am 71. My chief medical officer is 74. One of my science officers is around the same age. We found that we lived near each other in real life, and we get together for the occasional real lunch. We talk about hip replacements and air fryers!” Debra laughs, describing the blend of humor and camaraderie that brings their group together.

The Future of VR Adoption for Older Adults

The enthusiasm within the “Virtual Reality Users Over 50” group is a strong indicator of the broadening appeal of VR technology. As more mature users discover VR’s value, this community is expected to grow, showing that VR is not just for tech-savvy young users or industry professionals. With the group growing each day, it exemplifies a trend where VR is becoming an essential tool for fitness, socialization, and cultural exploration for people beyond the gaming and tech industry.

Deb Sullenger started using her VR headset in 2021, initially for home fitness, like so many others. She introduced several family members and friends to VR as a way to stay connected, though most of them have since stopped. That led her to meet new friends, exploring a variety of games and worlds together. It’s hard to pick a single favorite, but Supernatural has become my happy place. We also love playing Demeo, Walkabout Mini Golf, Puzzling Places, and Real VR Fishing, and I always make time to catch a few fireflies while world-hopping. As a retired couple, she and her partner find it incredible to have these opportunities to explore through VR.

As VR technology advances, its accessibility and variety of applications will continue to appeal to a diverse age range, proving that VR has the potential to be a truly universal technology. For people like Lorelle, Jennifer, Debby, Chris, Stephen, Stephanie, and many others, along with organizations like VRTogether, VR is not merely a gadget; it’s a meaningful part of their daily lives, connecting families, bridging generations, and enriching lives in powerful, lasting ways.

If you’re interested in joining the “Virtual Reality Users Over 50” Facebook group, click this link.

The post The Growing VR Community for Users Over 50: A New Frontier in Technology Adoption first appeared on XR Update.

Enhancing Election Coverage

For broadcasters, AR and virtual production offer powerful tools for visualizing complex electoral data in real time, providing audiences with a heightened sense of immediacy as results roll in. By deploying interactive elements such as real-time bar charts, live polls, and holographic figures of candidates, broadcasters transform election coverage into a dynamic experience. Patrick Twomey, director of graphics product management at Ross Video, spoke with Newscast Studio and notes that these features “go beyond visuals, pulling viewers into the story as results evolve, making election night more dynamic and accessible.”

In the U.K., broadcasters incorporated volumetric scans of political figures, allowing anchors to illustrate candidates “taking a stance” by moving forward or back based on their policy positions. Such technology makes it easier for audiences to follow and understand complex electoral processes, such as the U.S. Electoral College, in an engaging format.

In the United States, CBS is committed to covering the presidential election results through their AR/VR studios located in markets such as New York City, Chicago, and Philadelphia.

AR in Political Campaigning: Reaching the Gaming Community

Beyond traditional media, AR and VR are opening new avenues for candidates to engage voters in immersive, personalized ways. Campaigns can use AR to create interactive 3D ads, digital portfolios, and real-time event participation, deepening connections between candidates and voters. The gaming community, in particular, represents a significant demographic in this digital engagement.

In an interview with XR Update, Mike Selinker, President of Lone Shark Games and an enthusiastic Harris/Walz supporter, told us that the gaming audience is “an immense audience of voters,” a demographic that political campaigns are increasingly reaching out to.

For instance, the Gamers for Harris campaign rallied game and puzzle creators in support of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, using the collective influence of gaming personalities to connect with voters who value both gaming and democracy. As Selinker notes, “One thousand game creators in one place does a lot more than one Facebook post,” highlighting the power of collective gaming voices.

Politicians are also engaging directly with gamers through streaming platforms like Twitch. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) and Tim Walz used gaming events to reach younger voters, humanizing themselves by sharing the gaming space. Selinker points out that these interactions allow voters to see candidates as “regular people, excited about the same things you’re excited about: games, democracy, everything.”

Immersive Spaces for Republican Voters

In 2016, Republican voters found ways to harness immersive technology to build community and connection. Supporters of Donald Trump, for example, turned to virtual spaces for online rallies and discussions, bringing together a digital base across the nation. In these VR environments, supporters were able to interact directly, share campaign materials, and rally around key issues in a way that mirrors the traditional campaign trail experience. AR has also enabled these communities to create interactive content, such as virtual messages from Trump and his supporters, keeping voters informed and motivated.

This past July, AR was used at a Trump-led event where digital content enhanced the stage and provided attendees with an additional layer of interactivity.

Virtual events and VR-based town halls offer another outlet for Trump supporters to “attend” campaign events regardless of location, fostering a sense of inclusion and accessibility. This parallel use of immersive tech within Republican circles demonstrates how both sides of the political spectrum are capitalizing on virtual spaces to create a sense of community and belonging among their base.

Real-Time Data and Interactive Polls

AR also reshapes campaign strategies by enabling real-time interactive polling. Voters can engage with live polls and surveys via AR apps, providing immediate feedback on candidate popularity and policy positions. This dynamic polling not only makes the voting process interactive but also creates a feedback loop where campaigns can respond to voter sentiments in real time. This shift from passive observation to active participation builds a more engaged electorate and enables campaigns to adapt quickly to the public’s evolving priorities.

Overcoming Technical Challenges with AI

While these technologies are transformative, implementing them on a large scale presents challenges. AR and virtual production require precise camera tracking, latency management, and seamless integration of virtual elements with live footage. Chris Izatt, director of innovation and virtual at AE Live, emphasizes the importance of synchronization to avoid technical glitches that could distract viewers.

AI solutions are increasingly poised to address these challenges. Generative AI, for instance, can streamline virtual production by automatically generating high-quality virtual assets, lowering production costs, and making these technologies accessible to smaller broadcasters. This democratization of technology enables regional networks and campaigns with smaller budgets to provide data-rich, immersive coverage.

“Elections are about displaying large amounts of complex data in a way that the audience can understand, while trying to build engagement with viewers,” says Miguel Churruca, marketing and communications director at Brainstorm. He explains that AR and advanced virtual tools help make things like maps, charts, and comparisons easier to understand. By letting anchors interact with these graphics in real time, these tools make election coverage more engaging and easier for audiences to follow.

The Future of Immersive Campaigns: A More Engaging Democracy

As campaigns embrace AR, VR, and AI, they are paving the way for a connected, interactive democratic process. Platforms like Twitch and virtual reality environments are creating new spaces where candidates can connect with communities in real time, and immersive technologies allow for deeper, more personalized voter engagement. This integration of technology and politics points to a future where both Democrats and Republicans can mobilize their base through shared, virtual experiences. As Selinker notes about the power of collective action in the gaming community, “We wanted to do something to harness all the energy that existed in the game and puzzle creator community. So many people had expressed a preference for this ticket. One thousand game creators in one place does a lot more because game creators care about more than games.“

As both Democratic and Republican campaigns leverage AR and VR, they are only beginning to tap into the vast potential of immersive technology for reaching and engaging voters. These initial forays, such as virtual rallies, interactive political ads, and community-building in digital spaces, highlight the power of immersive experiences to bridge gaps between candidates and constituents.

While campaigns are exploring how AR and VR can enhance voter interaction and campaign engagement, this is just the tip of the iceberg. With each new innovation, immersive technology is poised to bring deeper, more personalized voter experiences, paving the way for future elections where digital engagement could play a central role in shaping the democratic process. The 2024 election marks a pioneering moment, offering a glimpse into a future where virtual tools not only complement traditional campaigning but also redefine how Americans connect with their political leaders.

Please note that this article is not meant to endorse either candidate or reflect the opinions of the writer or the publication.

The post The Virtual Vote: How AR, VR, and Immersive Tech are Shaping the 2024 Presidential Election first appeared on XR Update.