Virtual reality may seem like something of the future, but the technology is actually accessible today. Yes, accessories such as the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive can be purchased, although they are extremely expensive.
Our friends over at VRCade, however, have access to this sort of tech so we thought it would be a good idea to give it a whirl and see what the fuss is all about.
We tested three racing games: Assetto Corsa, Dirt Rally and Project Cars, with the Oculus Rift and the Logitech G29 racing wheel. We started off with Assetto Corsa but weren't too impressed simply because of how lacklustre the game itself feels. That said, it formed a solid introduction to the concept because of just how easy on the eyes it is.
Rallying up Pikes Peak
Following that, we moved onto Dirt Rally, which really opened us up to the world of virtual reality. The rally game developed by Codemasters is an immersive and interactive experience during normal gameplay, but on another level altogether when the virtual reality element is introduced.
We made use of the powerful and iconic Audi Quattro S1 up one of the most challenging courses on the planet: Pikes Peak (in the rain, no less).
Although Dirt Rally is an impressive game, it doesn't boast a particularly detailed environment, which is an element that is important for a rally game (you want that sort of thing as you thrash about the gravel).
Once you get going, however, you soon let the quality of the environment slide and realise how much of a challenge Pikes Peak really is. Unfortunately, the Rift doesn't really focus in on the game that well, which means you really have to concentrate on the road ahead.
The sheer challenge that Dirt Rally provides also makes this much more of a challenging experience as the game is difficult on its own, without the aspect of virtual reality. Therefore, we found ourselves crashing into a tree or over a cliffside every minute or so...
Another irritating aspect of Dirt Rally is the digital driver's inability to synchronise its "arms" with ours in real-time, which is something both Assetto Corsa and Project Cars manage to get right.
Overall, the experience is unique but not as vivid as we would have hoped, as you have a hard time getting immersed into the environment.
Speeding through Watkins Glen
Next up was Project Cars. We were looking forward to this one because we suspected it would offer the best virtual reality experience. And we were right.
Project Cars came out a little over a year ago through a crowd-funding venture and since its release it has been impressing users all around the world. Certain elements were less-than-perfect and its success was quickly overshadowed by the release of Forza Motorsport 6, but for a first independent release it was considered to be a success.
With the Oculus Rift attached, we selected Mario Andretti's Lotus 78 to pilot around the legendary Watkins Glen. As soon as the game kicks off you understand why virtual reality is the future. Of course, it doesn't come close to actually piloting a classic Formula 1 car because of the lack of G-force.
But, despite not looking 100% realistic, you feel as if you are on the racetrack in real-time to such an effect that you feel your body reacting to situations the way it would if you were driving on a circuit.
When the car breaks traction, your body loosens up as you ease off the throttle and correct the steering wheel. But as you get going, the muscles in your upper body tense up. When an incline approaches, you also expect to feel the longitudinal g-force press you down in the seat, but obviously this never happens.
It's also very easy to get into the zone of racing when using virtual reality because there are no visual distractions that you would encounter when just sitting in front of a screen. As a result, this makes racing games a lot more addictive and we can see ourselves playing for hours if we had access.
The side-effects
Virtual reality doesn't come without its cons. You're placing your mind into uncharted territories so some side-effects are to be excepted. A common one is said to be motion sickness, although for a racing game, seeing as you're seated in a static position, this isn't much to worry about.
Dizziness, however, can be experienced for a short amount of time once you get back to "reality". More excruciating than that, though, is the nasty headache that followed, presumably brought on by blurry vision experienced through the Rift.
The future of VR for racing
Virtual reality quite literally changes the game. We have to remember that this is only the beginning, so there's no way for anyone to get it 100% spot-on on the first attempt. What we can say, however, is that it is pretty close.
We wouldn't recommend buying a virtual reality headset of your own right now, because quite frankly it wouldn't be worth it, unless you really can't wait to step into this world.
If you want to get a taste of VR, then we would recommend visiting VRCade, as they provide an interesting experience with a catalogue of different games.
In terms of racing, we think making use of Project Cars would be fulfilling, particularly for simulation gaming fans.
If you want to experience virtual reality for yourself, have a look at VRCade's website. Their collection of games, pricing information and bookings can all be found there.
The post Racing in virtual reality: is this a game changer? appeared first on CARmag.co.za.