Today, it seems like there are so many websites and hardware tools being released that are prerequisites for experiencing the Metaverse. With so many barriers to entry, it can sometimes seem like there is a ‘catch’ to enjoying the Metaverse, in its current form at least. Most times, you would need to invest in a headset, but many headsets cost hundreds of dollars.
What you need is not simply the software, but also the headset itself. There are some great circumvents, and we've made a list for you! These cheap or free options will allow you to enter even more fully into your VR experience than you otherwise could with just your laptop or PC.
To take part in the metaverse, you need a device that can connect to it. A PC is nice, but it's not necessary. You do not have to go purchase a gaming computer with all of the bells and whistles because there are some really great options available if you don't want to spend the money on a new computer. Virtual reality is best experienced with high-end machines without the fancy bells and whistles just so you can maintain a steady frame rate and low latency. Some of these cheaper devices can connect to your Skydrive, which is helpful for those who do not want or cannot afford anything else.
Let’s take a look at some of these devices.
Microsoft Kinect :
The Microsoft Kinect is a motion-detecting camera that can be used for many purposes. It can bring you into the Metaverse because it is a cheap device that has been made with 360-degree movement in mind. The Kinect is an inexpensive option for those who want to get into virtual reality but do not have the money to invest in an expensive gaming computer.
If you would like to enter virtual reality at a lower price point, Microsoft Kinect provides what you need at a very affordable price point. It can read your body's movements from up to six meters away, and it has a high frame rate as well (much better than most webcams).
Google Cardboard
Google Cardboard is a simple, affordable way to enter virtual reality. It provides the experience of a headset without the cost of one. The cardboard VR kit comes with two lenses and an NFC tag, which allows you to scan items from the Metaverse into your real world.
All you have to do is slide your smartphone into the back of the device and put it over your eyes. It's as simple as that! The most expensive part of Google Cardboard is just the cardboard itself.
Oculus Rift
The Oculus Rift is an amazing experience, but you need a good PC to run it. The Rift allows you to enter into a virtual reality world by using your head movements and looking around based on the environment you are in. The headset allows you to see right into the Metaverse and experience 3D video and VR content.
The Oculus Rift is very expensive, and it is only available in a few locations.
Some content might be publicly accessible, but not all of the content can be seen. It depends on the region you are in.
Games
There are a host of games by Indie developers that work with your head movements or with screens placed right around your face and provide the experience of virtual reality at a lower cost than most headsets.
Moreover to add, this is a New Age. And in this new age, people will be able to explore the Metaverse even more than they already do. There are many ways that you can experience virtual reality at a lower price point; however, you will still need the hardware needed to connect to these experiences.