Exploring the Apple Vision Pro: Is It the Future of VR Gaming?
- The launch of the Oculus Rift in 2016 marked a significant moment in VR gaming.
- This broad support helps give VR headsets mass appeal, providing strong reasons for use beyond occasional travel.
- While the Vision Pro has impressive hardware, including high-quality screens and an M2 chip, its gaming potential suffers without handheld controllers.
VR Headsets and Gaming Go Hand in Hand
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The launch of the Oculus Rift in 2016 marked a significant moment in VR gaming. Today, VR technology is closely linked to gaming. The PlayStation VR is a leading headset, and Meta aims to promote its Quest devices for various uses, including gaming, work, and fitness. However, Meta’s headsets excel with motion tracking and console-like controllers, featuring many high-profile exclusive games.
This broad support helps give VR headsets mass appeal, providing strong reasons for use beyond occasional travel. In contrast, Apple’s Vision Pro is not built for gaming since it lacks controllers. Apple’s focus is on hand tracking, making the device user-friendly for those unfamiliar with gaming. However, this design choice limits the gaming experience.
While the Vision Pro has impressive hardware, including high-quality screens and an M2 chip, its gaming potential suffers without handheld controllers. Casual gaming may work well, with some exceptions.
Gears & Goo on the Apple Vision Pro
I recently tried an early version of Gears & Goo, an upcoming game exclusive to the Apple Vision Pro. Developed by Resolution Games, the game combines strategy and MOBA elements. It successfully showcases what the Vision Pro is capable of visually but also highlights its limitations.
The graphics are immersive, and the AR effect feels natural. The hands-only controls mimic a mouse, making commands intuitive. However, mechanics like troop control are limited. Once troops are deployed, the player can only choose attack lanes, which simplifies gameplay. Most functions feel like menu selections rather than direct control, leaving it lacking compared to other games.
The experience feels reminiscent of a mobile game rather than a fully realized VR title. As such, it’s more about managing simple tasks rather than engaging gameplay. This situation raises concerns for the headset’s future exclusives and the viability of third-party support.
What About More Traditional Games?
Playing traditional games on the Apple Vision Pro is possible, but with drawbacks. I tested Lies of P, a hack-and-slash RPG, while using the Vision Pro as a display for my MacBook. The connection was seamless, and the gameplay was smooth. The large virtual screen enhances the experience, but the reliance on a MacBook is inconvenient.
Using the Vision Pro this way makes sense in scenarios where a larger display isn’t available. However, the device is heavy and can become uncomfortable after prolonged use. In contrast, lighter headsets can be worn for longer periods without discomfort.
Should Gamers Get the Apple Vision Pro?
The Apple Vision Pro has impressive hardware for gaming, but its lack of controllers limits its potential. Currently, it is not well-suited for gaming. The headset’s design and gaming capabilities leave it in a challenging position.
Apple may eventually release controllers to enhance the Vision Pro’s appeal and usability for gamers. Until that happens, this headset offers powerful technology without the gaming experiences that truly leverage its strengths. For now, you might find better gaming experiences with less expensive options.