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Google’s Daydream VR concept is set to receive a shot in the arm soon with the rumored unveiling of Google’s first Daydream VR headset on October 4th. However, apart from the headset, what’s more important is that the concept gets integrated with some powerful engines like Unreal Engine or Unity Engine to allow VR game developers to enter the fold and develop hundreds of new titles for public consumption. Earlier today, Google announced that it has collaborated with Unity to create a technical preview for Daydream VR which is presently a custom version but will be fine-tuned and modified for commercial release in due course. The technical preview will set the platform for developers to know more about Daydream VR and create new games and experiences. A large number of Unity Engine-enabled experiences are already available on the Oculus Store so the fact that Google didn’t waste any time in doing the same shouldn’t surprise anyone.
For developers who have worked on Unity Engine-powered projects before as well as others, Google has listed out steps on how to enable Daydream in their systems. To do this, they will first need to install Android Player and Unity. Then they will need to visit Android Player settings, enable “Virtual Reality Supported” and add Daydream to the list of VR SDKs. It is important that developers have the Android Development platform software development tools for the new Android 7.0 Nougat OS as well, along with a Google Nexus 6P phone which is presently the only phone which supports Daydream. Google has also provided a link for developers to download installers for the Daydream VR technical preview in both Windows and Mac OS X devices.
The custom version of the Technical Preview is now live but it will be updated from time to time with new builds until both Google and Unity are convinced that they have the final product ready for commercial release. Using the present version, developers will be able to create content not only for Daydream but also for the Google Cardboard system which has been around for a while. The Unity Engine is considered easy to use and enjoys the following of a large section of game developers who, apart from creating gaming content, also use it for non-gaming content as well as 3D apps, and media. For Daydream VR customers in the near future, the addition of Unity will mean a huge range of games, apps and other content to choose from and experience. Earlier this year, Epic games’ Unreal Engine also collaborated with Daydream VR to allow developers to create high-end gaming experiences and with both engines now supporting the platform, Daydream VR now has adequate support to rival the likes of HTC Vive and Oculus Rift in the long run.