Maybe the next big virtual reality MMO will come from Microsoft.
Virtual reality could still be the next big step in gaming, even though there currently lacks games and technology in this area. However, OrbusVR shows as the first VR MMORPG what is possible in the realm of online role-playing games.
A first, simple VR MMO
Where the journey with virtual reality in MMORPGs can lead is shown by the MMO OrbusVR. The online game is currently in the early access phase and can be played through Steam with an “HTC Vive” or “Oculus Rift” headset. It should be noted: Do not expect a very profound or pretty game. Nevertheless, OrbusVR represents the first step into a possible new future for MMORPGs.
OrbusVR offers you classic MMO fare that is not really exciting from the actual game:
- A simple, cartoonish graphic
- Classic quests of the type “Kill 10 monsters of this type and 10 creatures of that type”
- Simple fights that feel passive
- Mining resources
- Brewing potions
- There is no class system; your weapons determine your “class”
Why is this special?
All this sounds like an MMORPG that one might not want to play nowadays. And these basic elements are not what make OrbusVR something “special” and a pioneer.
Instead, the MMORPG provides a first impression of how well such a game can work in VR. Yes, you mostly take down monsters passively and only complete typical quests, but this feels different than in an MMORPG where you sit in front of a monitor using a mouse and keyboard.
You are much closer to the action in the game due to virtual reality; it feels as if you are in this world. Just the fact that you can initiate a conversation with an NPC by actually waving elevates interaction to another level. You do not press a button; instead, you move your arm and the NPC reacts in a world without monitors or keyboards.
The first step has been taken, but the road is still long
OrbusVR shows how a VR MMORPG can unfold. Of course, this is just the first step, and it will take a while before we see MMOs with better graphics and significantly more depth in VR. But these could revolutionize the entire gaming experience.
Imagine feeling as if you are in this other world and not interacting with other players and NPCs via a keyboard and mouse on a monitor, but in a natural way. Therefore, virtual reality should not be written off too quickly. For MMOs, the technology could represent an evolution.
Maybe the next big virtual reality MMO will come from Microsoft.
