If you need to sell consumers on a new technology, you may as well take advantage one of the biggest names in modern gaming.
Microsoft will release a free update for the beta version of Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition today that makes the popular block-building title compatible with the Oculus Rift virtual reality headset. This could introduce VR to a whole new audience, as Minecraft is one of the most popular games ever. Its fans could become interested in the Oculus Rift if they think it’ll give them a new experience with one of their favorite titles, and this could boost the fledgling VR market. Minecraft has sold over 106 million copies across all of its (many) platforms. Microsoft bought the game and its developer Mojang in 2014 for $2.5 billion.
Minecraft is one of the most popular games ever, with an especially large appeal to kids. Pairing the game with the young VR industry can give that business a boost and exposure. Analysts are predicting that VR could generate $40 billion in revenues by 2020.
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“For new and experienced players, we hope the VR experience in Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta will illuminate just how powerful, evocative, and utterly immersive VR can really be,” Microsoft noted on its site.
Minecraft has already been available in virtual reality via the Samsung Gear VR, which is based on the Pocket Edition of the game. The Oculus Rift, which works with PCs, is beefier tech. The Windows 10 version of Minecraft also has more features than its mobile siblings.
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