Mariokart GP VR
Overview
Mariokart GP VR is a virtual reality experience where the player is put onto a mechanical kart with a HTC Vive Headset. The idea is to allow for full immersion by simulating the movement of the kart while displaying the Mariokart game on the headset. There are also added interaction within the VR environment with the addition of HTC hand controllers.
VR roller coasters are a relatively new attraction with the first one opening in 2015. This is mainly due to not only space requirements but also network and hardware requirements. Other iterations of this concept can be identified as flight simulators or even immobile coaster simulators. This technology is also present on rail car systems used to augmented tours or rides.
Current the only place where you can experience this ride is in Tokyo, Japan. Within the country is a VR arcade called VR ZONE: Shinjuku. It is the first ever only VR arcade and contains 13+ different experiences. This establishment has combined many different aspects simulated experiences by creating specialized gear and hardware. This allows for the ability to create incredibly immersive environments in a very small area circumnavigating the issue of space requirements. Currently these environments require very specialized equipment, so they offer very little expansion or alternative use.
How it Works
The game is rendered within the HTC Vive headset which tracks your head position. This is the main component as it contains all visual and audio information. Coupled with the headset is the kart itself. The kart is rigged to a mechanical rail system which can simulate inertia and directional changes, for example if the driver were to slam the brakes the kart will simulate the inertia pushback and lurch forward. The final component are the HTC Vive controllers which allow for direct manipulation of the virtual environment. While in the game the driver can reach out with their own hand and grab the virtual items floating in midair and either throw or swing at opposing drivers. Currently the arcade system will allow you to drive through a variety of different tracks from the Mariokart franchise and features only three weapons.
All three of these components allows for a truly immersive experience. Due to the size of the Nintendo Corporation, many often unlicensed products tend to be created then abandoned after a cease and desist order is issued so a unique characteristic of Mariokart GP VR is the fact that it is a fully licensed product. This is the only one of its kind and is a natural step further in the creation of new VR experiences. Some of the key features which I think help improve the experience is the multiplayer aspect as well as the need to both drive the kart and aim your weapons at the same time which is present in no other Mariokart game.
Strength vs Weakness
A very key strength of this system is the implemented multiplayer function, as Mariokart is a highly competive game. So not only do you have to ability to race against your friends, but you also get the added pleasure of pelting them with virtual weapons. The level of immersion this arcade ride implements is nothing shy of remarkable which you can notice as you watch your competition spin out uncontrollably because of your well-aimed shot.
However, these strengths don’t come without weaknesses, one being the price tag. A ticket to VR ZONE: Shinjuku will run about $40 USD and that only allows for four out of the 13+ attractions. Second is the lack of accessibility, due to the arcade being in japan and relying heavily on very specialized equipment. Many other games offer the ability to be ran from home with your headset, this is not the case for these arcade rides. This greatly reduces the number of potential customers. However, the arcade is not entirely vacant, in Japan the Nintendo brand is very prominent so many people visit this VR arcade daily. This steady stream of customers requires the arcade to reserve attractions in advance and even run out of entry door tickets preventing spontaneous adventure seekers access to the arcade.
Overall however many of the people who go often leave extremely satisfied with their decisions. The 4 attractions you get range in duration with the most running for about 15 minutes, this allows for breaks in-between sessions to reduce all negative side effects. I would rate this single experience a 4 out of 10. Motion sickness due to the movement of the kart and vertigo during the level transitions are the key issues of worry for newcomers.
Similar Applications
VR ZONE: Shinjuku has 13+ plus attractions all boosting very similar levels of immersion. As an arcade attraction this technology has room to expand into other games and rides but unfortunately the equipment becomes obsolete if the ride ever shuts down to the level of specialization. Repurposing the hardware may prove very difficult resulting in revenue loss if the attractions are changed frequently
Conclusion
This VR Arcade is offering unique cutting-edge technology which is extremely marketable to the Asian markets. The backing of the official Nintendo brand is greatly improving its uniqueness while offering the competitive angle will keep interest in the arcade and is extremely fun for the driver. I really want to visit this arcade personal.