Skip to main content

Crytek doubles down on Virtual Reality with ‘VR First’ developer initiative

Crytek has pivoted more than almost any game developer on the planet in the last few years. The creators of the AAA shooter franchises Far Cry and Crysis transitioned to a free-to-play future, shut down its UK studio, and abruptly stopped development on the upcoming Homefront: The Revolution (the game was, luckily, saved by publisher Deep Silver.) Now, the company is putting all of its energy into virtual reality, and its “VR First” program seeks to empower future developers to do the same.

“‘VR First’ is an initiative that will lead the way in virtual reality by seeding grassroots VR development, developing strong partnerships, and building communities around the world,” the announcement video says.

Related Videos

The program launches today in Turkey, at Bahçesehir University, which Crtyek calls a “pilot destination.” Each partnered institution will give students access to VR headsets, computers, and Crytek’s CRYENGINE software.

“VR First will generate momentum and enthusiasm at grassroots level for VR development across a range of different fields,” the narrator continues. It appears that Crytek does not want to limit its VR development to just gaming, as the video also focuses on the technology’s application in medicine and architecture.

While more “traditional” games like Crysis may be in Crytek’s rearview mirror, the company may have finally found its calling with VR. Its game The Climb has drawn considerable attention, and we praised its realistic, fear-inducing gameplay; even in a virtual world, climbing up the side of a cliff can be terrifying.

But that’s not the only VR game the company has in store. Robinson: The Journey, a mystery-adventure game, will be making its way to PlayStation VR. I’m curious to see whether the VR First program supports PlayStation development — the “hardware partners” section of the program’s website is currently blank, suggesting that the use of “pilot” to describe the launch in Turkey is quite accurate.

Editors' Recommendations

How to connect a PS5 controller to a PC
playstation 5 controller ps5

The PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller is one of the biggest leaps in controller design ever, adding advanced haptic feedback to Sony’s new console. For games that take full advantage of it, like Astro’s Playroom, the effect it has on the play experience can be truly game-changing. Like most other console controllers, the DualSense can also be used to play games on PC, though without the full benefit of features like variable-resistance triggers.

For those who want to get a little more mileage out of their DualSense, here’s how to connect the PS5 controller to a PC. While the good news is that the DualSense works just like any other controller on a PC, the bad news is that, well, the DualSense works just like any other controller. It may lack the PS5-specific features that make it such a standout when connected to a PC, but it’s also simple to set up and use, whether you want to connect using a USB cable or Bluetooth.
How to connect a PS5 controller to PC with USB
Connecting the PS5 controller to a PC with a USB cable will likely be the go-to option for most people, as it’s extremely easy to do and won’t run the risk of draining the DualSense’s battery during a play session. Just connect the DualSense to a USB-C to USB-A cable (like the one that comes with the PS5), and plug the other end into your PC. If your PC has a USB-C port, you can also use a regular USB-C cable. If you’re purchasing a new DualSense on its own, as opposed to using one that comes with the console, just be aware that it won’t come with its own cable.
How to connect a PS5 controller to PC with Bluetooth
If your computer has built-in Bluetooth capability or you have a separate Bluetooth adapter, you can also connect the DualSense wirelessly. The process is the same as connecting any wireless controller. Just hold the PS button and the Create button on the DualSense to start pairing. On your PC, navigate to the Bluetooth & Other Devices menu and click Add Bluetooth or other device, then select the Bluetooth option. When the connection is made, the PS5 controller will show up as Wireless Controller in the menu.
How to use a PS5 controller on PC with Steam
The major caveat to using a PS5 controller on PC is that not all games will recognize it natively. Fortunately, Valve added limited DualSense support to Steam almost as soon as the PS5 was released and is continuing to add features. All the Steam games with controller support are playable with the DualSense, and functions like motion controls, rumble, and the light bar should work just like they did for the PS4’s controller, though new features like adaptive triggers still aren’t working.

Read more
Diablo IV’s always-online play threatens an otherwise killer time
Diablo IV characters stand in a cathedral.

The always-online Diablo IV is right around the corner. I had an enjoyable time exploring the setting of Act 1, the eerie Fractured Peaks zone that’s heavily inspired by northeastern Europe, while going hands-on with the game's open beta. It all worked well when the servers didn’t completely break down, forcing me to wait in a queue. Its always-online sensibilities are definitely a bold move for the series – which has traditionally fashioned itself as an action RPG with both offline and online features.

Once expected beta server issues were resolved, I got some insight into how this massive beast of an online role-playing game will likely function when the servers finally go live in June. I still agree with the healthy room for concern outlined in Digital Trends' previous Diablo IV preview, but Diablo IV is as challenging and grounded as Diablo 2 and as dynamic and speedy as Diablo 3. A captivating story that goes heavier on its own themes than past installments gives a strong reason for its sprawling open world, and its hefty combat offers a balanced mix of challenge and brain-tingling action that drew me in.

Read more
The best indie games on Nintendo Switch
hades best builds key art new cropped hed 1244036

Although the Nintendo Switch has some of the best AAA titles, the system has become known as an indie machine to many people. The portability of the Switch and Switch Lite makes them ideal for some of the best indie games, and dozens of small developers seem to love releasing their games on the hybrid console.

Better yet, plenty of previously released indie games, such as Hollow Knight, have received increased attention and acclaim after landing on the Switch. It's become a win-win for developers and Switch owners. If you're a new Switch owner or are simply looking for the best Switch games to play during your morning commute, we've put together a running list of the best indie games on the Nintendo Switch.
Action

Read more