A two-year study by iGO3D was designed to help game developers create better stereoscopic 3D games.
iGO3D has showcased a real opportunity for 3D and VR to represent a brand new class rather than just an add-on for video games. One research project involved creating a 3D space shooter/maze game with its design focused around interactions in stereoscopic 3D, to determine whether the additional depth cues allow for new interactions not possible in traditional 2D games. The study found 70 per cent of players were able to complete the game on a 3D display in the first play-through, and all the first-time players gave up and failed when playing on a 2D display.
The iGO3D website is now accepting free registrations from Ontario game development professionals, applicable Ontario industry and S3DGA members. Only qualified registrations will be approved for access. Most of the research documents are supplemented with stereoscopic 3D videos that can also be viewed in traditional 2D if needed. The presentations will work with most available 2D and 3D options in the market.
Special industry presentations have also been made available by Big Blue Bubble and Digital Extremes: two companies with active S-3D game development experience. Researchers and industry representatives are also making themselves available to answer questions about the findings through an included discussion engine.
The iGO3D website will also be revealing its research results for the Fan Expo Battlefield 3 gaming competition. Featuring close to 250 participants, iGO3D has uncovered findings about what gamers think about being able to effectively compete in 3D, and some ideas on how to improve the experience further.
The University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) advances the discovery and application of knowledge through a technology-enriched learning environment and innovative programs responsive to the needs of students, and the evolving 21st-century workplace. With more than 9,200 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in 70 programs delivered by exceptional faculty, UOIT promotes social engagement, fosters critical thinking and integrates outcomes-based learning experiences inside and outside the classroom. UOIT's commitment to accelerating economic growth and social innovation is realized through research collaborations with leading organizations such as Ontario Power Generation, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and the Durham Regional Police Service. UOIT will mark its 10th anniversary on September 4, 2013.
