Virtual reality now takes video gaming to new high

CHENNAI: While gaming space developers across the world choose to invest in virtual reality with an eye on the future, here is a Chennai-based promoter who has designed a space that draws on the gamer's adrenaline to deliver fun.
Unlike the traditional gaming arenas that offer a mix of console and arcade games, K Abilash's "Daddy Cool", located in Anna Nagar, is a first of its kind racing game arena in Asia, says the 35-year-old.It's selling point are the two types of racing games on offer. One is based on artificial intelligence, the other is a throwback to the 'Hot Wheels' racing most millennials would have grown up with.
"Though the racing track concept has been around for years, what we present at Daddy Cool is a mix of aspects from console gaming along with advantage of user interaction with the gaming elements," Abilash said.
The idea seemed profitable enough for Abilash to quit a white collar job from Samsung to "indulge in a childhood passion."
Imported units from German manufacturer Carrera has been pieced together to form two racing tracks that measure 86 and 127 feet respectively.
Miniature models of actual racing cars, manufactured by car makers like Ferrari, Lamborghini and Chevrolet among others, are used on the tracks. Each miniature car cost upwards of $300. "The cars use infra red sensors to move on the track. It is controlled by a joystick using a thumb throttle," Abilash said.
Providing the adrenaline rush is the performance of the cars on the track, which even permits gamers to interchange lanes at break neck speed. "Neck-and-neck racing where the performance of the car dictates how you fare, this is the concept in the console racing games. The difference is here you witness and feel the action and that will indefinitely raise the thrill," he said.
Two generations of Anki racing cars that operate on artificial intelligence (AI) has also been set up. These pint sized cars trace a coded route map and even perform stunts while racing.
The cars can be controlled through a smartphone app. Besides, the arena offers X-box console gaming titles that will work on user body movement.