Introduction
Virtual reality, known as VR by the masses, is a hot topic today. According to a 2023 report published by Zippia, there are nearly 66 million VR users in the U.S., which is growing as we speak! If you are intimidated by the technology, don't worry. This guide contains everything you need to know about how to get started with VR.
What is VR and How It Differs from a Computer or TV
VR has taken video gaming to the next level by introducing immersive experiences into entertainment. Remember the days of pushing different combinations of buttons on a bulky controller to make the character on your monitor jump, twist, or run? Those days are gone with VR! When you put on a VR headset, your movements control the experience.
In VR, you become integrated into the game. You transform into the character who defeats the enemy, wins the game, or solves the puzzle. Rather than focusing on a screen in front of you, you can explore what's happening around you for an authentic 360-degree experience.
What is VR Used for? What is the Main Application?
As the PICO headsets are mainly for the following applications, then expand the applications one by one, especially VR fitness, VR gaming, VR video and VR social.
VR Gaming
When tech novices think of VR, gaming is often the first thing that comes to mind. Fortunately, if you are new to VR, countless options exist in this department. The best VR games for beginners are simple to learn, featuring straightforward movements that help users develop the coordination and skills required to conquer difficult, complicated experiences.
If you're looking for a low-stress VR game to check out, try your hand at All-In-One Sports. With 13 sports, multiple difficulty levels, and plenty of fun extras, it is a top choice in VR for beginners.
VR Fitness
Did you know you can get an intense workout while having a blast in the metaverse? Some VR games sneak in cardiovascular exercise, while other experiences are specifically created to build physical fitness.
If you want a fun way to raise your heart rate, check out Eleven Table Tennis. In this fast-paced game of hand-eye coordination, test your paddle skills against live competition or get some practice in with an AI opponent. Les Mills Body Combat, a martial arts workout, is a favorite pick for those who want an intentional, targeted exercise program.
VR Video
You might be able to catch your favorite movie in VR, but your viewing possibilities don't end there. Are you dying to ride that new roller coaster at an amusement park miles away? Put on your VR headset, hop in the front seat, and enjoy the ride! Have you ever wondered what it's like to swim among some of the most majestic animals in the deep sea? VR can take you there! In addition to these once-in-a-lifetime experiences, VR video allows users to sit in the front row at live events, binge-watch their favorite shows, or visit stunning landscapes around the globe.
VR Social
Many people new to VR are surprised to learn how social it is! If you're here for the party, check out Rec Room. As one of the best VR games for beginners, Rec Room focuses on building a welcoming community for gamers from all backgrounds.
Rec Room isn't the only game that offers a lively, interactive experience. Many of the most popular VR games, including All-In-One Sports and Eleven Table Tennis, have opportunities for gamers to get social.
VR Productivity
VR is showing up in workplaces, bringing employees and stakeholders from across the globe together to share ideas in the same room. It also has applications in hiring, employee training programs, and customer support.
What are the Basic Terms and Concepts of VR?
Degrees of Freedom (DoF)
DoF is a tracking measurement used in VR. VR headsets usually have either 3DoF or 6DoF. If your headset offers 6DoF, it will track your movements and position in space for the most precise VR experience represented on your visual display.
Field of View (FOV)
Your FOV refers to everything you can see at any given time. While wearing a VR headset, your FOV is smaller than in the real world. PICO headsets feature a 105-degree FOV, making it easy to forget that a limit on your vision exists in the metaverse.
Motion Sickness
Sensitive individuals may experience dizziness or nausea during gameplay. Easing into VR, keeping ginger handy, taking an over-the-counter medication to prevent motion sickness, or wearing an acupressure wristband can help to combat any unpleasant symptoms.
Eye Tracking
VR eye tracking analyzes the pupil and cornea to get a general idea of where a person is looking while in the metaverse. The technology isn't perfect, but when combined with advanced motion-tracking capabilities, it is a crucial part of creating an immersive environment.
Spatial Audio
Spatial audio considers the relationship between the source of the sound and the user's position in the metaverse. It also considers how the environment might impact how the user interprets sound.
What are the Types of VR Equipment?
Standalone VR
Standalone VR systems don't need additional hardware, such as a PC or monitor, to operate. They only require a headset and the desired software to enter the metaverse.
Standalone systems, such as PICO Neo3 Link, offer some of the best VR games for beginners. In addition, these devices don't have cords or connections, which some new users might find cumbersome as they learn the ins and outs of VR.
PC VR
If you want to put more power into your VR adventures, try a PC VR system. PC VR units connect to a PC that will support a higher-quality graphics experience. On the downside, these connections can be cumbersome and negatively impact the freedom of movement many people love about VR.
Console VR
There are only a couple of console VR options on the market. These are typically purchased as an add-on to your current gaming system. While these VR devices give you the opportunity to play some of your long-time favorite games in VR, like PC VR units, they also require a tethered connection that may impact your movement.
Should you Buy a VR Headset?
If you are considering purchasing a VR headset, go for it! The PICO 4 is a good choice for VR newbies. It features a balanced design for maximum comfort, motorized interpupillary distance adjustment to reduce motion sickness symptoms, and a proprietary pancake lens for crisp, clear images.
If you have more gaming experience, you might be ready to try the PICO Neo3 Link. It has all the benefits of the PICO 4 standalone headset with a PC VR option to harness the power of your PC.
The PICO 4 Enterprise was created for companies who want to enhance their operations with VR. It is easy to customize and has enhanced security features to protect critical data.
Conclusion
VR is for beginners and experienced gamers alike. If you are wondering how to get started with VR, try the games mentioned here to become acquainted with the metaverse. When you're ready to purchase a system, check out PICO VR headsets for the ultimate immersive experience!