Decision 2016: Virtual reality vs. 360-degree video

Posted on by CMSU Reflections

Today’s tough choices aren’t like those that captivated audiences of the past: Pepsi vs. Coke? McDonald’s vs Burger King? Peanut M&Ms vs plain?

Choosing sides was fine, but the implications were not so all-consuming.

In 2016, options are a lot more life-changing, course-charting: Trump vs. Clinton? Democrat vs. Republican? Virtual reality vs. 360-degree video?

The last question is the one I’m grappling with after my recent introduction to both worlds, and I’m definitely torn.

Virtual reality puts me right in the center of a new world, able to immerse myself completely in it. But it requires a bit of awkward head gear that may leave me connected to a computer. It makes me a bit dizzy and it still doesn’t feel as real as it proponents promise.

360 video, for now, is more of what I like. I see the panoramic world from all new perspectives, and it’s real, not created or “staged” for the experience. A camera does the work and I’m not harnessed into any gear that causes the effect.

I tried a few simulated experiences on YouTube — jet-flying, skydiving and roller-coaster riding never seemed so thrilling. But without the VR head gear, I’ve still not felt fully immersed. But it’s piqued my curiosity.

I’m looking for authenticity and control, and I’m leaning toward the option that gives me both for now. But I’m certain, as with the classic decisions of the past and present, the debate over the future will never be resolved.    

1st trip into 3D world leaves me stranded

Posted on by CMSU Reflections
The Unity 3D game-development program took me on an exciting new journey, but I got stuck along the way.

The Unity 3D website promises that the “game development program” gives users “everything you need to succeed” to build a sensory-stimulating, immersive experience.

I apparently need more than it can give.

I sat down to create a “simple scene” in Unity 3D at the request of an instructor whose enthusiasm about playing around with three-dimensional landscapes and skies piqued my interest.

But I never achieved a finished creation.

I started off OK. It was frustrating learning Unity’s tools, but with the help of a tutorial,  I managed to get some grass, sand and mountains in my virtual world. I even uploaded some “whispy clouds” into my environment.

But at the height of my creation — the introduction of a “person” to take users on a birds-eye view of my ‘scape — the program crashed. Repeatedly.

The computer ate my homework.

I’m not blaming Unity. I’m sure users with less education than I have created full-scale 3D games with this program without problem.

But I have not succeeded … yet.

Still, take a peek how at far into this brave new world I traveled.