Last week, our speaker Kay Hofmeester talked about Augmented Reality (AR). Augmented Reality has been one of the emerging technologies today that produces an interactive experience of a real-world environment where objects in the real world are being enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information. It can affect how you learn, shop, work, or connect. And now, lots of different tech companies are developing their own AR such as Google, Facebook, and Apple.
So, what specific use of AR do I want to see in the future?
Video games. One of the biggest games that came out in 2016 was Pokemon Go, which had so many people go outside their homes, catch some Pokemon, and fight their opponents on the streets or the parks. It was one of the first mainstream video games that used AR on mobile as their console for the game and it was an instant hit. Although the game may not be as popular as it was in 2016, it became a potential for AR to become a new way for people to experience video games in a whole new level. And with this, I am hopeful that there would be more games similar to this in the future.
Why is it important?
Playing video games are fun! After watching a documentary about video games on Netflix, it blew my mind how much game developers have revolutionized a way for people to have fun and interact with each other through gaming consoles, arcades, and even created a new sport — e-sports. Video games can be an escape from reality to other people, especially when someone wants to unwind or let out their emotions. And so, stepping up the experience of playing video games through AR may enhance the experience, the storytelling, and a new way for other gamers to connect with their environment as well as others too.
What problem does it solve?
Wouldn’t it be fun if you can mix your reality with something that is completely imaginative and creative? How fun and crazy would it be if your favorite character can fight your worst enemy at your own backyard? Sometimes playing with the same console for years can be a bit boring, especially when new games are being produced every year. AR will create a whole new world of interactions where you can battle your friends maybe through your mobile phone or glasses, and you don’t have to worry about the hassle of setting up your TV with your Xbox or have limited perspective of your surroundings (2D and 3D). With AR, you can do so many things that pushes the boundaries of playing games.
Just imagine mixing your world with your favorite video games’ worlds! I would want to see Mario battle Bowser in my reality!
