Apple Vision Pro: Navigating the Gaming Landscape
The launch of Apple Vision Pro in February 2024 fueled excitement throughout the technology world and among Apple’s dedicated fanbase. This innovative product not only generated buzz within the tech community but also sparked interest in the gaming sphere. In this article, we’ll delve into what Vision Pro is, examine its advantages and disadvantages, and ponder the implications it holds for the future of gaming.
What is Apple Vision Pro?
Apple defines Vision Pro as its first spatial computer. The device combines digital content with the real world to create immersive experiences. It’s designed to change how people work, collaborate, communicate, and have fun.
How does it work?
The device features a 3D user interface and input system that responds to a user’s eyes, hands, and voice commands. Intuitive gestures enable users to interact with apps effortlessly — simply by looking at them, tapping their fingers to select, flicking their wrist to scroll, or using a virtual keyboard or dictation to type. Additionally, Siri integration allows users to swiftly open or close apps, play media, and perform various tasks.
Which apps does it support?
Apple Vision Pro runs on visionOS, Apple’s latest operating system built on the foundation of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. With its dedicated App Store focused on visionOS, the device offers users access to over 1 million compatible apps from the iOS and iPadOS ecosystems.
Apple Vision Pro and Gaming
It’s important to note that Vision Pro isn’t primarily marketed as a gaming device, but gaming is an integral part of the experience it offers. According to Apple, users can access a wide range of games on the App Store, including over 250 titles on Apple Arcade. Beyond playing popular games on the device’s expansive screen, users can also enjoy spatial games specifically designed for Apple Vision Pro, such as Game Room, What the Golf?, and Super Fruit Ninja.
There are four ways to play games with Vision Pro:
1. Games developed for VR/AR devices
These games encompass AR/VR experiences designed for devices like Meta Quest, PlayStation VR, and now Apple Vision Pro. An example is Synth Riders, a freestyle-dance rhythm game. Here is a video showcasing Synth Riders gameplay with Apple Vision Pro.
2. Games developed specifically for Vision Pro
These games are tailor-made for Vision Pro. Super Fruit Ninja is one such example. It’s an AR adaptation of the popular mobile game Fruit Ninja, where players use their hands instead of fingers, as they would on the mobile app. Here is a gameplay video of this title.
3. iPadOS and iOS games compatible with visionOS
Originally developed for iPadOS and iOS platforms, these games may benefit from an additional controller to optimize performance on Vision Pro. For instance, Rocket League Sideswipe, a vehicular soccer video game, is compatible with Vision Pro. This video demonstrates gameplay of this game on Vision Pro.
4. PC and Steam games
In this scenario, Vision Pro functions as an advanced gaming monitor, allowing players to control the game using conventional tools like a mouse or keyboard. For example, Palworld, currently available on Steam, can be experienced on Vision Pro. Here is a video showcasing gameplay of Palworld on Vision Pro.
Pros and Cons
Let’s examine the advantages and drawbacks of using Vision Pro for gaming:
Pros:
- Has advanced eye and hand tracking capabilities along with precise motion controls.
- Offers a true mixed reality experience with high-resolution displays.
- Integrates seamlessly into the Apple ecosystem, providing access to a wide range of apps and services.
- Facilitates new opportunities for multiplayer gaming and cross-platform play, enhancing the gaming experience.
- Opens up new potential for game monetization with advertising, leveraging the device’s immersive capabilities.
Cons:
- Physical discomfort such as head and neck strain due to the device’s weight, and reports of nausea from prolonged use.
- Limited battery life, particularly problematic during extended gaming sessions, coupled with the device’s bulky battery design.
- High price point, currently retailing at $3,500, which may impede widespread adoption.
- Limited availability, initially released in the United States on February 2, 2024, with plans for global expansion later in the year.
- Limited selection of apps specifically designed for Vision Pro, with the transition to visionOS versions of popular apps expected to take time.
Vision Pro and Game Developers
Game development studios already experienced in creating content for AR, VR, and mixed reality devices view this innovative device as a gateway to new markets. They can leverage their expertise to craft new games for Vision Pro or adapt their existing titles for this platform.
Certain mobile game developers may also explore the potential of integrating their games into this new operating system. As seen with the example of Super Fruit Ninja, Halfbrick Studios successfully adapted their renowned Fruit Ninja game for Vision Pro.
However, for indie developers operating on tight budgets, creating games for visionOS may pose challenges. The high cost of both the device and the Unity license, necessary for visionOS game development, can be a significant barrier. Currently, only the Pro, Enterprise, or Industry versions of Unity, priced between €1,877-€4,554 per year, allow developers to create visionOS games.
Final Words
Only time will reveal whether Vision Pro will become the next revolutionary tech phenomenon like the iPhone, as predicted by Sam Altman, or if it will remain an early proof of concept aimed at captivating Apple’s fanbase.
While some game developers may choose to wait and observe how this platform evolves, those aiming to be part of the growing trend of cross-platform gaming experiences should consider Vision Pro a must-try platform.
Early adopters who have their games prepared for the global launch of Vision Pro will have a significant advantage in growing their user base while competition is still minimal.
For developers contemplating entry into this new field, it’s essential to understand the platform and create engaging experiences tailored to potential users’ preferences.
This article was originally published on Why Not Labs’ LinkedIn page.
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Writers: Hilal Bakanay & Yucel Bayram