Knightmare VR Demonstrator [re-post]
Posted: 24 Mar 2004, 22:41
There seems some confusion as to the nature and purpose of the Knightmare VR demonstrator.
So to clarify: the demonstrator (or simulator) is is a real time virtual reality gaming platform.
Loaded into the system is the equivalent of one level of the old Knightmare, including a tunnel/maze layout.
Currently the simulator will operate two synchronous view points. View one is a topdown angled isometric and is simular to the controller's viewpoint in the TimeGate pilot. Once again - there will be a controller or perhaps even two (but not three).
View two is thru the eyes of the dungeoneer, who
is represented as an avatar (or player).
The simulator contains and controls four other non-playing (encounter) characters. All of these can conduct two way conversation. Some of these have a computerised database and some are directly connected through real actors behind the scenes. We hope and believe that teams using the simulator will be unable to tell the differerence!
There are also three other NPCs but these are drama characters. You can guess that they include Lord F and Lissard. There is also a new Goblin creation who is currently codenamed Beveryafraid, until I can think of a better name for him. Teams invited to play on the simulator at the London launch should be able to enjoy about 20 minutes continuous gameplay.
The simulator runs on a three machine network of 3.4 gig PCs with professional quality NVidia graphics boards.
Two machines provide the viewpoints described, and the third machine is system management.
The whole setup includes the ability to data record and store, so when it is eventually used for TV programme production, you can go back and shoot all the action again from different cameras.
Finally, Treguard's avatar version may not be used when the simulator is launched in London this spring.
Instead, he will probably attend in person.
So to clarify: the demonstrator (or simulator) is is a real time virtual reality gaming platform.
Loaded into the system is the equivalent of one level of the old Knightmare, including a tunnel/maze layout.
Currently the simulator will operate two synchronous view points. View one is a topdown angled isometric and is simular to the controller's viewpoint in the TimeGate pilot. Once again - there will be a controller or perhaps even two (but not three).
View two is thru the eyes of the dungeoneer, who
is represented as an avatar (or player).
The simulator contains and controls four other non-playing (encounter) characters. All of these can conduct two way conversation. Some of these have a computerised database and some are directly connected through real actors behind the scenes. We hope and believe that teams using the simulator will be unable to tell the differerence!
There are also three other NPCs but these are drama characters. You can guess that they include Lord F and Lissard. There is also a new Goblin creation who is currently codenamed Beveryafraid, until I can think of a better name for him. Teams invited to play on the simulator at the London launch should be able to enjoy about 20 minutes continuous gameplay.
The simulator runs on a three machine network of 3.4 gig PCs with professional quality NVidia graphics boards.
Two machines provide the viewpoints described, and the third machine is system management.
The whole setup includes the ability to data record and store, so when it is eventually used for TV programme production, you can go back and shoot all the action again from different cameras.
Finally, Treguard's avatar version may not be used when the simulator is launched in London this spring.
Instead, he will probably attend in person.