This is the sci-fi future of game development we've been waiting for. Epic Games has announced a new virtual reality development mode for Unreal Engine 4. This means developers can create content for VR games, while working directly in VR. No longer will they need to jump in and out of playing the game in VR, and developing it on a desktop PC.
The above video shows Epic's Mike Fricker using a HTC Vive Pre to manipulate assets in an Unreal Engine 4 level. It's possible to pick up, move, and carry objects while they're rendered live, in real-time, around the scene. Fricker is also seen bringing up the engine's regular interface mounted to one of the Vive Pre's motion controllers, where it can be interacted with like a virtual tablet.
VRFocus spoke with numerous VR developers to gauge their reaction to Epic's announcement, with San Francisco VR Meetup founder Matt Sonic stating: "We desperately need proper tools for building VR experiences. There is no lack of talent, but we are limited in our means of expression. Immersive experiences are the next major technological medium. It’s only natural that VR’s authors should have the same advantages enjoyed by VR’s consumers."
This VR Editor mode will be released as an addition to Unreal Engine 4's existing suite of tools. Epic says it will reveal more details about the tool, and its release plans, at GDC in March this year. Though only the HTC Vive Pre is shown here, Epic also says the VR Editor will be compatible with the Oculus Rift and Oculus Touch controller.
the VR tablet idea is brilliant!