Virtual Reality is the future — and not just in gaming
We’ve seen how virtual reality (VR) makes waves both in the real world and in fiction. Its immersive aspect relies on some of the latest technology including head-mounted displays (HMDs) and position-tracking systems. These innovations allow users to enter and explore a three-dimensional, realistic, yet controlled environment.
The gaming industry, specifically, has been one of the front-runners in virtual reality development. Science fiction book and movie, Ready Player One, as well as the hit anime Sword Art Online, explored the possibilities of this technology. But aside from gaming, lots of other fields use virtual reality too.
Applications of Virtual Reality
Entertainment
The use of VR headsets such as Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Valve Index can make one’s gaming and movie experience much more immersive. By metaphorically being transported into a virtual world, users can enjoy interacting with the environment themselves.
In the Philippines, Entertainment and Arcade Center Timezone introduced Hologate Arena, an area where players may engage in VR action games or dance battles.
Training
Training lets professionals prepare for real-world scenarios, but it’s often difficult to simulate a controlled environment that resembles real life. The development of virtual reality provides a solution for this.
For instance, medical students can practice surgeries in a 3D environment without risking anyone. Soldiers can also learn the basics and train before engaging in actual combat. Recently, the American police force has been taking advantage of VR technology to simulate environments and situations such as hostage rescue and active shooters.
Fitness
More than looking classy while wearing a VR headset, one of the pros of using it for games is that your body is actually moving instead of just your fingers and hands. In a way, it is a form of exercise.
Ever since then, developers have been working on games and applications to make health and fitness appear attractive in virtual reality. This includes sports simulations like volleyball and badminton, as well as guides on your gym and yoga journey.
Architecture and Engineering
The real-time visualization offered by virtual reality allows architects and engineers to inspect the design and execution of construction. Testing prototypes before they are executed reduces costs in the long run. Moreover, it avoids mistakes and improves efficiency.
In real estate, virtual tours of buildings and homes give potential buyers the option to explore properties in a different way.
In the near future, virtual reality will no longer just be a thing from science fiction. The development of this technology changes how things work especially in the entertainment, education, fitness, architecture, and engineering industries.
