A new virtual reality (VR) online ski game has launched which aims to, “brings the mountain to ski enthusiasts …to instantly bring to life a ski holiday from home.”
The VR Ski Fit 365 game is aimed at both recreational skiers and pro racers, with “engaging graphics so you feel like you’re really there, breathing the fresh mountain air and hearing the sound of crunching snow under foot” say its producers Playko Studios.
Ski Fit 365 uses virtual reality lower-body leg tracking for realistic ski fitness, and gives you a choice of a dozen imagined ski locations across the world and a choice of more than 144 slopes.
This virtual reality game can be played through any VR browser, you simply put the headset on, the controller in your sock and instantly join a global skiing community.
The game requires standard VR hardware such as Oculus Quest 2 VR headsets (a headset and 2 hand controllers) but no PC is required, so SkiFit365 is fully standalone, just connecting to WiFi. Some other VR experiences require additional accessories like body trackers.
“This is a game changer for both athletes and amateurs, it’s so life-like. I see huge potential for people returning from injury, preparing for the season as well as those wanting to test their abilities on the slopes. When I go on my summer ski training camps, I can’t wait to build my Ski Squad and see who I beat on Ski Fit 365 – the competition is going to be fierce,” said British Alpine Ski Racer Jack Gower.
VR will fly you by helicopter into your chosen location and as you enter the lobby, you are surrounded by the luxury, sights and sounds of a top-quality resort.
Here you’ll visit the shop to select your outfit from a range of complimentary styles or upgrade your ski holiday experience with in-app purchases, including more outfits, ski equipment, courses and locations. Kitted out with all your equipment, head to the cable-car to ride up to the start of the slope run.
There are runs rated for beginner to expert, but at whatever ability level you can hurtle down the slopes in a with a “unique realistic leg-controlled steering experience”, aiming for your personal best. There’s a global leader board or you can create your own Ski Squad leader board with friends.
“The challenge has been making a ski game that is easy to access and entertaining while being realistic and using standard hardware. We hope fitness fans will feel the burn as they focus on getting their best time while working out their whole bodies. Being able to compete with Ski Squad friends or on the global leader board really brings the competitive edge to the gaming experience,” said Yinch, Game Designer, Playko Studios.
