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Yes, you'll be able to game on Samsung and Google's Android XR headset
- Google’s Android XR platform will support gaming and feature controller APIs.
- Samsung’s Project Moohan VR headset will also ship with controllers that will help with gaming.
- Developers will also be able to easily port existing apps and games to Android XR, though some optimization work will be needed.
Google has just announced its new Android XR platform, and the first device to run Android XR is Samsung’s Project Moohan VR headset. Samsung has curiously not pictured any controllers alongside the headset prototype, so we wouldn’t fault you if you were wondering if this headset can be used to play games. The good news here is that, yes, you will be able to play games on this Android XR headset.
The Android XR platform supports the majority of apps and games on the Google Play Store since it is an extension of Android, albeit you should look for apps and games that have been optimized and deemed compatible. Google is also working with partners like Qualcomm and Unity to make it as easy as possible for developers to port existing apps and games designed for other XR operating systems to Android XR. So, it’s clear that the platform embraces gaming use cases right out of the box.
We have also been informed that the Android XR platform will have a controller API, allowing devices to build support for this as an input method and subsequently make it easy to play games. Given the breadth of the platform, we also hope to see game developers optimize their games for controller use, as we reckon many touchscreen-first classic titles would need a reimagining for VR.
That’s for the software side of the story. For the hardware, we are informed that Samsung’s Project Moohan headset will include controllers with its retail launch, and these controllers can be used to play games. This gives Project Moohan a good jumping point to function as a VR gaming rig, unlike the Apple Vision Pro, which isn’t envisioned for use with controllers (although Apple is said to be exploring a partnership with Sony to use the PlayStation VR controllers).
So, if you envision using Samsung’s Project Moohan VR headset or other future Android XR devices for gaming, you can keep your hopes up. You’d still have to wait a while before you can get your hands on the device, and you can grab a top-tier gaming phone to keep you busy until then.