Realism

Virtual reality is characterised by realism. Years ago, before virtual reality was well-known, people were already dreaming of being transported into a video game. Over the years, the games became more realistic (think of Battlefield and Call of Duty), but they remained games that you played behind a screen. Currently, virtual reality has advanced to the point where you can literally move yourself into the virtual world. The next step in this process appears to be the addition of realistic subjects and haptic feedback. To completely immerse yourself in VR, not only is your sight important, but it must also feel as if you are in the virtual world! 

Haptic feedback

Luckily, as of 2020, there are many ways to make your virtual reality-experience even more realistic. One such way is, for example, the addition of a haptic vest. But another very cool accessory is the addition of a virtual reality gun (VR gun case or a VR gun controller). A virtual reality gun is a firearm that you add to a VR-game in combination with your controllers or a Vive-tracker. This way, instead of holding two physical controllers, you're holding a realistic firearm! The VR guns stand out mainly in terms of realism. Relatively simple VR guns like the Hyper Blaster can already be found for less than €80, while more realistic guns can easily go up to €450 or even thousands. 

Haptic vs. Niet-Haptisch

A haptic VR gun is a firearm that works based on an HTC Vive tracker. This gun contains a sensor that ensures the firearm provides feedback when you shoot in a game. Hence, haptic guns offer the most realistic experience! Defence, police, and government agencies also use haptic guns extensively for training. For example, with a haptic gun, you can test a new weapon or train certain attack techniques. For more information on VR in police, defence & government, you can also this blog check out our blog. 

We refer to a niet-haptische gun when it is a virtual reality-geweer without feedback. In a niet-haptische gun, also known as VR gun case , you place controllers from your VR-set into the designated spots, transforming the controllers into a VR firearm. There is also a significant difference in quality (and thus price) among VR gun cases. The simpler and cheaper VR gun cases are merely holders for your VR-controllers to keep them in the place of a firearm, while the more expensive VR gun cases are more focused on realism and comfort.

The Best VR Guns Highlighted

Our favourite VR gun at the moment is the M4 VR Gun Case for HTC Vive and Vive Pro Controllers. This VR gun case allows you to detach the front VR controller using a magnet, enabling you to use two hands in a VR-game. This is particularly handy in games like VRZ: Torment, where you occasionally switch weapons and don't walk around with a two-handed automatic gun throughout the game. In addition, the case feels very solid and gives the good sensation of holding a realistic firearm.

Recognising Tracking

For the real work, we recommend using a haptic VR gun. The ScarVR 2.0 Haptic Feedback VR Gun is currently one of the most realistic and cool-looking haptic guns on the market. This haptic gun operates based on an HTC Vive Tracker 2.0. With an integrated cable, you can secure the Vive-tracker to the firearm, making an automatic connection with SteamVR. The VR-game recognises the tracker on the gun as a controller, allowing you to use the VR-gun in a game. Note that a haptic VR gun with Vive-tracker requires more technical knowledge than a VR gun case. Therefore, it is recommended to use a Haptic VR Gun only if you have knowledge of VR-development or previous experience with an HTC Vive Tracker.

Looking for something more manageable? Then the KAT VR Hand Gun Case for HTC Vive & Vive Pro is a very fun option. This is a VR gun case in the form of a handgun. This case is particularly suitable for games where you play with a single gun, such as Pistol Whip. Due to its relatively low price, it is a very fun accessory to add to your VR-experience!

Excited about using a virtual reality gun? Then take a look at our entire range of VR Controllers & Guns here! For more information, you can contact us by sending a e-mail to klantenservice@unboundvr.nl.

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