HoloLens – Microsoft’s augmented reality (AR) headset – has been bubbling under for some time. Microsoft unveiled HoloLens in 2015 – the same year as HTC Vive – but the technology is still awaiting release. For context, the Vive released in February 2016. While the hardware awaits its consumer debut, though, developers have had their hands the tech for some time. One of these developers – Ubisoft – has now revealed its first augmented reality games at this year’s Unite Europe conference.
Rabbids and Toy Soldiers in AR
At the Unite Europe conference in Amsterdam, Ubisoft programmer David Yue presented two augmented reality game prototypes, VRFocus reports. One used characters from the developer’s Toy Soldiers franchise, while the other featured Ubisoft’s de facto mascots: Rabbids. The games utilised spatial mapping to place interactable CG characters within a real space.
Prototypes Only
While Ubisoft’s AR demos look fun – I’d love an augmented reality Toy Soldiers game – they remain mere prototypes. However, the French developer is still working with Microsoft on potential AR releases. As VRFocus explains, it is unlikely that the prototypes will become complete games. However, Ubisoft is working with Microsoft on future augmented reality and mixed reality titles. While the technology remains elusive, these prototypes show that AAA developers are taking AR gaming seriously.
