Navigating the virtual world has long been a challenge, with solutions like the Virtuix Omni treadmill and 3DRudder footboard pushing the boundaries of VR locomotion. Yet, these innovations have often faced hurdles such as high costs, cumbersome designs, and limited VR headset adoption. Enter London-based Roto VR with a fresh approach: a $799 spinning gaming chair that aims to transform how we move in virtual reality.
The Roto VR Explorer stands out as the first VR locomotion device to earn a "Made for Meta" seal of approval, signaling its compatibility with Meta's VR ecosystem. Designed to tackle the common problem of 360-degree movement in VR, this chair also addresses the issue of VR motion sickness. By syncing the chair's motion with what users see in their headset, Roto VR hopes to minimize the disconnect that often leads to nausea.
Visually, the Roto VR Explorer resembles a standard swivel chair, albeit with a distinctive design. Its tiered back support and expansive base, shaped like a compass with a footrest acting as the needle, contribute to its unique appearance. The chair features haptic feedback to enhance immersion and will come with modular accessories to support compatibility with over 400 games.
Founded in 2015 by tech entrepreneur Elliott Myers, Roto VR has been dedicated to advancing VR technology with a focus on making it more immersive and accessible. The Roto VR Explorer is now available for preorder, with shipping expected to begin in October 2024.
As VR technology continues to evolve, the Roto VR Explorer represents a significant step forward in making virtual movement more intuitive and comfortable. The innovative design and thoughtful integration of haptic feedback could set a new standard for VR peripherals, potentially enhancing the way we experience virtual worlds.
