James Brown, a Weta Workshop graphics engineer, has truly taken gaming to a whole new level with his latest creation. He has built a crystal ball filled with shimmering, spinning volumetric light, and he is not just playing any game on it – he is playing Voxel Doom. In Voxel Doom, every dot of the game’s graphics exists in 3D space, perfectly matching the dots of the volumetric display he has created. This innovative approach adds a new dimension to the gaming experience, literally.
Brown’s explanation of the physical illusion behind the volumetric display is both simple and fascinating. It functions similarly to a hologram fan, but instead of spinning a 1D strip to create a 2D image, it spins a 2D panel to generate a 3D image. This process creates a mesmerizing effect that enhances the visual appeal of the game being played on it.
Brown has dedicated over a year to perfecting this project. The journey began in August 2023 when he first introduced the concept with a playful reference to “Back to the Future.” However, as with any ambitious undertaking, there were challenges along the way. Brown quickly realized that the display needed to spin at a much faster rate than initially calculated to achieve a smooth image, especially when capturing footage of the display in action. Despite setbacks, his perseverance paid off in the form of a truly remarkable innovation.
Brown’s work raises exciting possibilities for the future of gaming technology. The integration of volumetric displays could revolutionize the way we interact with games, offering a more immersive and visually stunning experience. As technology continues to advance, we can only imagine the incredible gaming experiences that lie ahead.
James Brown’s creation of a volumetric light display for gaming purposes represents a significant step forward in the world of gaming technology. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible has resulted in an innovative and visually striking display that has the potential to shape the future of gaming. As we look ahead to the possibilities that lie in store, one thing is certain: the future of gaming is filled with endless potential for creativity and innovation.