Wednesday, May 26, 2010

3D Gaming

Source: Playstation.com

We have 3D movies, now we have 3D porn what did you really think was the next logical step?

In truth 3D gaming has been floating around the past several years but never has really caught on or had the technology really in place to make it affordable, but with the massive 3D typhoon that has hit theaters there has been a significant push into the home market, and Sony wants to lead that charge.

With the release of new 3D Sony Bravia this summer the hardware will be available to make 3D home viewing a reality. Andrew House, president of Sony Entertainment Europe, summed up their hopes best:

"3D is a very exciting technology that has the potential to redefine how people consume their entertainment. More specifically, games are a perfect fit with 3D and I truly believe that it will be games that will lead the way in consumer understanding of how 3D enhances the entertainment experience. Games can be adapted into 3D relatively easily and with this technology we can add depth and make games more immersive than ever."

There are a few games already slated for a 3D upgrade for the PS3 in June including WipEout HD, Super Stardust HD, Pain and a demo of MotorStorm Pacific Rift. I feel it is important to point out that these games are 2D being converted to 3D, which we all know does not make for a good movie experience so I have my reservations.

I will reserve my final judgment until I get to play and actual 3D game made in 3D for a 3D TV set ... man, that is a whole lot of 3D and for that I apologize.

Eye Tracking

Source: Popular Science

All of that head gear to the right is little bit of tech-wizardry import called a HeadCam. Developed in Germany the HeadCam has many possible applications, but how does it work?

There are four cameras built into the HeadCam, two of which are responsible for tracking your eye movements in 3D by following your retinas. Another camera uses that information to provide a zoomed in view of whatever your eyes are currently looking at and the final camera moves in whichever way your eyes move.

Utilizing this technology has practical benefits, such as studying the eyes in general. More advanced possible uses could be for surgeons, or other similar fields, to use the HeadCam as a teaching tool.

What does this technology mean for film?

You may recall the Robert Zemeckis movies such as The Polar Express, Beowulf and most recently A Christmas Carol. All of these films have used a version of the HeadCam to make the eye movements of the animated characters in an attempt to render them as realistic as possible.

While it is not perfect it is technology that has some serious potential both in movies and practically.