Transformation of a Game into a VR game (case study) | Crysberry
#

Transformation of a Game into a VR game (case study)

Crysberry, VR / AR

25 June 2019

Some time ago we worked on an interactive 3d mahjongg game Taptiles. This game is an innovative vision of a classic mahjongg game through the combination of 3d puzzles and enjoyable game process. Together with the client, we decided to use Unity as a technology for game creation. One year ago the game became available on both mobile (iOS, Android) and desktop platforms. 

After the successful performance in stores, we asked our client if he wants to increase the representation of the game by reaching another giant platform Steam, where there are more than 90 millions of active users monthly, and, also, to try the new experience of game interaction. We advised him to surprise his users with an extremely popular in IT world VR technology. The idea was to make an experimental transformation of a game into a VR game. 

And our team started looking for ways to achieve more interesting and interactive gaming user experience, this time in VR. 

Read also: Virtual Reality: Part 1. Introduction. What is VR and where we can use it

The challenges we faced with during the transformation of a game into a VR game:

  • consider the human perception of the environment; (link to UXXR) 
  • understand how to change game inputs;
  • make the art and animation perceived in VR; 
  • transfer mobile architecture to one-size-fits-all one, so it will work on all platforms;
  • take into account space while building the game field; 
  • change the location of the game elements by placing them around the player;
  • remake scenes for easier use in VR;
  • add new effects at the beginning and the end of a level to make it look interesting and integrated into VR;
  • put in the taptower effect; 
  • add Egypt setting.

We created a new visual setting and added some art and animation elements, which bring game players to another level of experience perception. 

Another distinctive feature of a VR game is that it has another control over the gaming process. So we transferred tapping and mouse game inputs to controllers. And now the user has an opportunity to interact with the 3d gaming cubes in full immersion. 4 different game modes allow choosing which one complies with a user’s current mood and time limits, so he or she can fully enjoy the game. 

And the renewed Egyptian design brings users to another place full of sacral ancient elements. 

Currently Taptiles game is available for use on Oculus Rift and HTC Vive and everyone can download it from the Steam store. Soon enough we will add the support of more VR platforms, so the users with different VR devices will be able to enjoy the Taptiles game.

It was a fascinating development experience and we are waiting for new challenges of VR transformation. Should you have any ideas of transforming your game into VR, let’s work on it together! 

l.sidorenko