Yesterday we reported on our conversation about virtual reality with Andrea Marinelli, founder of Frost Earth Studios, the developers of rhythm adventure VR title Mind Labyrinth VR Dreams. In our conversation, Marinelli expressed his desire to see greater VR integration in next-gen consoles, and at the same time also talked about how while Sony may very well end up doing just that, that seems unlikely for Microsoft, given their current indifference to VR.
In the same interview, we also spoke of how, given the fact that the Xbox One X is currently the most powerful console on the market, whether not having their own virtual reality headset is a missed opportunity for Microsoft. According to Marinelli, that’s certainly the case, which is further evidenced by the fact that Sony’s PSVR has been doing very well for itself as well, in terms of sales.
“I believe Microsoft is kinda missing an opportunity here, yes, I believe so,” he said. “I don’t think it’s a huge one just yet because the VR market isn’t huge already, but PSVR has sold 3 million and more headsets, which isn’t really that bad.”
According to Marinelli, it’s likely that Microsoft might be holding back for now as they wait for better future technologies, or maybe even the next generation of consoles. “I guess Microsoft is waiting to have an even more polished headsets, maybe something wireless or with less wires, or is even waiting on the next console,” he said. “I obviously prefer the Sony approach.”
VR is definitely something that seems like it will become more and more widely accepted as time goes on, and the next generation of consoles seems like perfect timing for that to happen. Even Nintendo, for instance, are thinking of the possibilities in the area, so it’s a pretty safe bet to assume that Microsoft might be doing so as well. Well, hopefully, at any rate.
Mind Labyrinth VR Dreams is currently available on PC and PS4. Stay tuned to GamingBolt, our full interview with Marinelli will go live soon.