Everyone agrees that virtual reality experiences won't be "complete" until each system can track our entire body, not just the head. The HTC Vive has taken a big step in that direction thanks to its sensors and special controllers, two things that developer Ryan Sullivan used to the fullest with his RIPmotion system, which enables "virtual walks" by simply placing one of the controllers on our belt.
The Problem with VR Locomotion
For a while, it was believed that treadmills would solve the space problems for VR users, but the most important models passed through the last CES without much reception. Apparently, the main complaint was "lack of naturalness", which is logical considering the idea is to slide your feet on a polished surface while the platform holds you still at waist height. The limits of mobility in virtual reality have no simple solution, and for now, it seems the user will have to make several compromises. Is there any alternative? The HTC Vive comes with sensors that do an excellent job of tracking the controllers. And with that in mind, we come to RIPmotion.
How RIPmotion Works
Developer Ryan Sullivan has been working with the HTC Vive for a while, and his current system is split between some software, and placing a controller on your waist. The remaining controller and the headset movement retain their independence, and to move, all you have to do is take small jumps or 'jog' in place. The speed of virtual movement responds directly to the intensity of your jogging in real life, and if necessary, the HTC Vive's safety grid will warn you about space limits.
I think the most important aspect of RIPmotion is not the movement, but the combination of moving while being able to look and shoot in independent directions. At this moment, RIPmotion is little more than a tech demo, but I estimate that several companies should study its progress closely. Several games have entered virtual reality on the wrong foot, and anything that can improve the experience in any way is certainly welcome.
