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Razer has introduced a new open-source virtual reality (OSVR) ecosystem that it hopes will have a similar impact on the tech that Android has had on mobile.
OSVR has been built to be the open standard for VR hardware and software development, and is designed to support all VR devices including the Oculus Rift. But rather than act as an operating system, it’s been described as a development system aimed at making it easier to create games for the fragmented VR market.
It will support game engines including Unity, Unreal Engine 4 and HeroEngine. It will also allow companies to design and build their own apps and hardware across operating systems such as Windows, Android and Linux.
Razer has also developed the OSVR Hacker Dev Kit to support the venture. Developers can either download 3D files and create their own set of VR glasses or purchase Razer’s kit for $199.99. It is expected to begin shipping in June this year.
Companies supporting the scheme include Gearbox, Techland, the IGDA, Sixense, Virtuix and LeapMotion.
The firm has insisted OSVR and its headset are not competitors to existing VR tech such as Oculus, but will support it and the range of other VR devices to make development and deployment easier.
“Gaming is moving towards the virtual reality platform and this poses huge benefits and challenges to gamers at every level,” said Razer CEO Min-Liang Tan.
“OSVR brings game developers, gamers and hardware manufacturers together to solve those challenges and make virtual reality gaming a reality for the masses.”
Visit the OSVR website for more information.
