Virtual reality (VR) is a powerful medium for immersive storytelling, education, entertainment, and social interaction. But how do you create your own VR content and share it with the world? In this article, we'll explore some of the best platforms for creating VR content, from easy-to-use apps to professional tools.
If you're new to VR or want to experiment with different styles and formats, you might want to start with some of the VR creation apps available on various devices. These apps let you create 360-degree photos, videos, animations, and interactive scenes using your smartphone, tablet, or VR headset. Some examples are Google Cardboard Camera, VeeR VR, Quill, and Tilt Brush. You can also upload and share your creations on platforms like YouTube VR, Facebook 360, and VeeR VR.
If you're more experienced or ambitious, you might want to use a VR development platform that gives you more control and flexibility over your VR content. These platforms are software frameworks that let you build and code VR applications and games using various languages, libraries, and tools. Some examples are Unity, Unreal Engine, A-Frame, and WebXR. You can also publish and distribute your VR content on platforms like SteamVR, Oculus Store, and WebVR.
The heavy hitters within the VR Dev scene at the moment are Unity and Unreal, each bringing to the table different strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the correct engine is as important as choosing the idea itself as the engine itself will dictate if you are able to bring said concept to life as you intended. If the engine does not allow, for example, exploratory RPG elements, it will not be conducive to your VR Dev journey. Keep an eye on improvements in dev engines as well. Unreal Engine 5 is the best example of this, as their Lumen system will greatly increase workflow.
If you're working with a team or want to collaborate with other creators, you might want to use a VR collaboration platform that enables you to co-create and communicate in VR. These platforms are online spaces that let you join or host VR sessions, where you can share ideas, feedback, assets, and prototypes. Some examples are Spatial, Mozilla Hubs, and Sketchbox. You can also invite and interact with your audience on platforms like AltspaceVR, Rec Room, and VRChat.
If you're looking for inspiration or guidance, you might want to use a VR education platform that offers you courses, tutorials, and resources on VR creation. These platforms are online learning platforms that teach you the skills, techniques, and best practices of VR content creation. Some examples are Udemy, Coursera, and XR Bootcamp. You can also learn from and network with other VR creators on platforms like VRARA, Women in VR, and VR/AR Association.
If you're aiming to make money from your VR content, you might want to use a VR monetization platform that helps you generate revenue and grow your fanbase. These platforms are online marketplaces or services that let you sell or rent your VR content, offer subscriptions or donations, or display ads or sponsorships. Some examples are SpringboardVR, Patreon, and Admix. You can also track and optimize your VR content performance on platforms like Google Analytics, App Annie, and Sensor Tower.
Viveport: HTC's platform for VR content distribution and monetization, Viveport supports both subscription models and one-time purchases. Oculus Store: For Oculus device users, the Oculus Store is a primary channel for distributing and monetizing VR content, offering a wide audience reach.
Monetization is a contentious topic these days as we are seeing big companies like Capcom bite the bullet on overly aggressive monetization patters in their latest release Dragon`s Dogma 2. While other more user friendly monetization schemes like the indie game Helldivers 2 brings a constant stream of heightened revenue because of increased customer retention. However you plan on monetizing, these concepts need to be at the forefront of your thoughts. Do I prioritize in-game shop sales or Microtransactions/DLCs for short term liquidity injections or do I focus on building my brand equity by refraining from overly aggressive monetization schemes? In the end, the channel is not important. The monetization plan is.
VR is a rapidly evolving and expanding field, with new trends and opportunities emerging every day. As a VR creator, you should keep an eye on the latest developments and innovations in the industry, such as new devices, formats, genres, and use cases. You should also explore the possibilities of combining VR with other technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and 5G. You can stay updated and informed on platforms like Road to VR, UploadVR, and VRScout.
Keeping at the forefront of trends and opportunities is important and they will dictate whether your Concept remains relevant or not. Visual improvements have been shown to be a little bit less relevant in the eyes of the end consumer these days so focus on interactibility and mixed reality opportunities available with your Concept. By integrating peripherals or innovative constraint removers, like AI curated procedurally generated arenas for battle simulators, you can breathe innovation while remaining relevant for an extended period.
Cross-Platform Development: Consider platforms that support cross-platform development to maximize your content’s reach. User Experience: Focus on creating intuitive and engaging user experiences, considering factors like motion sickness and user interface design. Accessibility: Ensure your content is accessible to users with different abilities, including options for users who may not have access to VR hardware.