Why Early Access?

“Last Updated: April 14, 2021

DepthQVR_AQUA is a novel application of virtual reality technology designed to simulate a traditional indoor amusement ride on which passengers aboard a guided vehicle travel through specially lit scenes that typically contain video, animation, sound, music, game interactives, and special effects.

The short, interactive, and immersive ride & casual gaming experience targets players of any age.

The addition of optional motion simulation technology transforms DepthQVR® into a realistic ride experience for out-of-home PC Café, Entertainment Attractions, Brand Experiences, and Educational Attractions.

Our goal for Early Access is to welcome a "first look" by the broad game community and café owners to experience our project and give us valued feedback on our concept.

The project is fully functional without a motion chair, includes a single content default skin (Code Name: DepthQVR_AQUA), and can be experienced with Oculus Rift and VIVE controllers or Leap Motion.

We support Steam VR and 'Desktop' (non VR) gameplay modes; 'Desktop' is supported via Keyboard/Mouse and Xbox Controller.

To Operate: ** After the project loads, press the "Q" key for a quick tour. You can also press the "N" key for a more extended experience. Press the "H" key for a list of all keyboard shortcuts.**

Documentation: Be sure to read the install and setup documentation by clicking "View the manual" on the right side of this screen.

Motion Base: The motion base drivers are available as a separate beta release; please request a "beta access code."”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“Nine months.”

How is the full version planned to differ from the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version includes all the essential tracks, rooms, effects, and theaters. It also has strong support for contactless 'In Air" gesture technologies, Leap Motion with HMD, and Azure Kinect DK with projection.

We are working towards these essential improvements:
- Optimization of the experience for home use
- Development of the ride mechanics for a new "Boss" scene.
- Improve infrastructure to allow the use of the theater spaces for live virtual performances and experiences of video and music.
- Improving game mechanics and gamification via a point tracking and scoring system
- Addition of a motion system that mimics the famous "Tea Cup" ride format

- A broader array of immersive display technologies: Head-Mounted Displays, 3D Curved Torus Projection, 4K Dome, 4K Flat Panel, and 4K LED Wall.
- Expanding player control through Azure Kinect by using facial tracking.
- Social media integration, by adding chat
- Create a premiere content title, based on a voyage through many remarkable places, including more animatronic characters. (Storyboards already exist)”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“DepthQVR_AQUA is robust and well tested, previously used in numerous trade shows and commercial settings.

Currently, the ready-to-experience ride environment is a single level and single track, divided between nine event spaces. Within the rooms and halls, the rider/player sweeps past visual experiences, including HD video and panoramic images embedded within chamber walls. Films, both HD and 3D, are projected within specialty 360 domed theaters. Interactive objects and creatures will float close as the ride progresses, reach out, and playfully touch. Animatronic characters will react to your presence as you move by. When you arrive in the final space, red-toned, with the enormous character statue, lookup, you will fly up, reach out.

The design of DepthQVR_AQUA is a virtual generic experiential ride environment. The skin, films, objects, and characters can be altered (not by user, at this time).”

Will the game be priced differently during and after Early Access?

“We intend to keep the Early Access version free. When we launch a commercial title, we are considering a low fee, with sponsorship support for home use. The PC Café license program will charge as a monthly use fee.”

How are you planning on involving the Community in your development process?

“The concept of this product is novel, and we look forward to ideas, feedback, and direction from the community.

The use of game technology for attraction development is in the early days, and we view the Early Access program as an excellent opportunity to learn and be inspired by the community.”