Virtual Reality game development is becoming one of the fastest-growing verticals of the technological industry. It is gradually becoming one of the best investment opportunities. Major tech giants like Facebook, Google, Microsoft, etc. are making great strides in the VR industry. Moreover, companies like Samsung and Sony are working towards designing VR devices in an attempt to make Virtual reality hardware more affordable and accessible for the general public.
Affordable VR hardware like VR equipment and consoles are ushering in a new era of VR game development in India. That’s why, the demand for virtual reality game development companies is increasing at a rapid pace. New and updated VR devices are entering the market every year. Moreover, VR game developers are focusing on developing VR versions of their popular game titles to engage a new demographic audience.
This blog will highlight VR software development and a step-by-step guide on how to develop cutting-edge VR games.
Table of Contents
What is a VR Game?
Any video game that uses virtual reality technology to deliver a highly-immersive experience to the user is called a VR Game. These games are designed to transport the user into an immersive virtual reality environment where they can interact with virtual objects. However, to play virtual reality games, a player needs VR equipment like HMDs, VR glasses, or VR consoles.
With the help of VR Game engines like Unity 3D and Unreal Engine, there have been massive strides in the field of VR development. The advent of advanced technologies has been integral in facilitating the development of VR games.
Creating a VR game is an intricate and time-consuming process that requires a fair understanding of development technologies and programming languages. You have two options to create your own Virtual reality game. First, hire a Virtual reality game development company that will enrich your VR game idea with the latest trends and exceptional features so it can stay ahead of the curve. Second, you have to go through a step-by-step VR game development process that is lengthy and costly.
Let’s take a look at the step by step Virtual Reality Game Development Process.
1. Come Up With An Unique Idea
First and foremost, if you want to develop virtual reality games, you have to come up with a unique game idea. You also need to specify the target audience of your VR game. Make sure to also prepare a game design document(GDD) to share with your development team to streamline the entire VR game development process.
2. Choose the VR Platform
After you have finalised your game idea, the next step is to choose the VR platform you want to target. Nowadays, there are a plethora of VR devices available in the market. You need to have a good understanding of these devices before you can start developing your VR Game. Oculus(Meta), HTC, and Valve are some of the leading manufacturers of VR equipment. Moreover, Google, Sony, and HP have also released their own VR devices. Here are the most popular VR devices that you can choose from-
Oculus: Rift S, Quest 2, Pro
HTC: Vive, Vive Pro 2, Flow, XR Elite.
Valve: Index, Index 2
Google: Google Cardboard
Sony: PSVR, PSVR 2
HP: Reverb G2
Every one of these devices falls into 4 of these categories of VR devices that you should study thoroughly. Let’s take a look-
Console VR
PlayStation has come up with its virtual reality platform called PSVR and PSVR 2. While the PSVR is compatible with PS4 and PS5, the PSVR 2 is only available for PS5. Moreover, the PSVR is also designed to be compatible with PlayStation Eye Camera, Move Controllers, and PS Dualshock Controllers.
Mobile VR
While the console platform is greatly dominated by Sony, there are a lot of competitors in the Mobile VR platform. While Google Cardboard is the cheapest option(only $10) to access virtual reality games, it has very limited functionalities.
Meta’s Oculus Quest 2 and Merge VR are two of the most premium mobile virtual reality devices that feature exceptional compatibility and functionalities which makes them the preferred choice of VR game developers in the UK.
Standalone VR
Standalone VR equipment doesn’t require an additional device like a mobile or console to run Virtual reality games. These devices feature their memory and processor to offer immersive VR experiences. Some of the most popular standalone VR headsets include-
Oculus Go
Oculus Quest 2
HTC Vive Focus 3
PC VR
PC features one of the best virtual reality experiences. This is because computers feature powerful processors and larger screens than mobiles. However, PC VR equipment is more expensive than mobile VR equipment. Still, if you want to deliver an immersive and out-of-the-box VR experience, PC might be the best platform for you. Some popular PC VR devices include-
After deciding on the platform, the next step is to determine the graphic style of your VR game. However, keep in mind that this decision will greatly influence the development cost of your VR project. Generally, there are 4 options available-
2D
Although 2D is a little outdated, it is still widely used for game development. The primary reason is lower costs and better replayability. If executed properly, 2D graphics can offer an immersive and captivating user experience. If you are leveraging 2D Unity VR game development, you can either use in-house editors or outsource your project to a Virtual reality game development company in india.
3D
It goes without saying that 3D graphics offer a mesmerizing experience that is absent from 2D. Moreover, because it is widely used, it is a cost-effective option. Unity3D, Unreal Engine, and Autodesk Maya are some of the most prominent game engines used for 3D VR gaming development.
Photorealistic Graphics
Photorealism is the art of imitating a photograph. Developing a VR game with photorealistic graphics will certainly enhance the appeal of the game. However, it also significantly increases the cost and time of the development process.
4. Select the VR Development Platform
The next step is to choose the best game engine for VR Development. Although there are a plethora of VR Development Software available in the market, the ultimate choice comes down to Unity or Unreal. However, it is important to take the benefits of both into account to make an informed choice. Let’s take a look-
Unity3D
Unity supports 2D and 3D graphics.
Supports programming languages like C#, Unity Script, and Boo.
Supports every available development platform.
Comes in both free and paid versions.
The free version supports Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
Pro Version supports platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Wii.
Unity creates VR games quickly
It features a rich asset store
Unreal Engine
Best-suited for console-based games.
Open-source code to make developers’ jobs easier.
Unreal VR Development is best for large projects with Heavy 3D graphics
According to our experienced development team, Unreal Engine is the best choice to develop highly responsive and cutting-edge VR games.
5. Define Your Development Budget and Hire a VR Game Developer
The VR game developers are the heart of the development process. Therefore, the success or failure of your project greatly depends on the developers you choose. Make sure to hire a virtual reality game development company that has the best team of experienced and skilled development team that has an in-depth understanding of virtual reality technology. An experienced VR developer will streamline the development process and also minimize the errors in development.
The overall VR Game development cost is dependent on multiple factors. In order to get an exact game budget estimate, you have to consider factors like the targeted platform, the complexity of the features, app size, graphics style, location of the developers, etc.
6. Develop a Minimum Viable Product
Now that you have all the necessities figured out, it is time to start the development phase. The first step is to create an MVP and collect feedback from it to further improve your game app. An MVP stands for Minimum Viable Product and it serves as a functional prototype of a game.
7. Launch & Deployment
After you have successfully developed your VR app, it is time to deploy it into the market so users can get their hands on it. There are different publishing platforms and each one of them has its own set of requirements that the game title must meet. Here are some of the most popular platforms for publishing VR games-
AppStore
Oculus Quest Store
Oculus Rift Store
Steampowered Store
Viveport
PlayStore
Virtual Reality Game Development Cost
Virtual Reality Mobile Game Development cost is not fixed and is influenced by a variety of factors. Various factors like the experience and location of developers majorly affect the overall development cost. Not to mention, different VR game development companies have varied costs so to know the exact development cost of VR games, share your game idea with a Virtual reality game development company. Let’s take a look at the various factors that affect the overall development cost of a VR game-
Features of the Game
Location of Developers
Tech-Stack
UI/UX
Experience of Developers
Cross-platform Compatibility
On average, the VR Game Development Cost ranges from $40,000 to $50,000 for a single-platform game app with basic features. However, if you want to develop a cross-platform app with advanced features, you will have to invest around $80,000 to $100,000.
Also, keep in mind that this is an average cost estimate and the actual cost may actually differ depending on your preferences and requirements. If you want an exact cost quotation, you can contact a VR Game Development Company in India.
Features of Virtual Reality Game Development
In order to ensure an interactive and engaging gameplay experience, it is important to incorporate various features in the Virtual Reality game.
Features
Description
PC VR platforms
Our VR Game solutions are compatible with major VR headsets including Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Steam VR which makes the game compatible with multiple platforms.
Quality Graphics
Our VR game developers incorporate immersive graphics that blur the lines between virtual and physical realities.
Multilingual Support
We incorporate multilingual support in our VR game solutions which allows users to play the game in their preferred language.
Safe & Secure Payment Gateways
The VR game is integrated with secure payment gateways that safeguard the user’s information and provide multiple payment methods.
Refer & Earn
The refer & earn feature allows users to invite their friends and family to the gaming platform. Moreover, users also get additional rewards whenever a user joins the game through their invite link.
Multicurrency Support
VR Games are incorporated with multicurrency support to allow users from all across the globe to make transactions with their preferred currency. Moreover, our VR games also provide cryptocurrency support.
Why Invest in Virtual Reality Game App Development in India?
With the rise in technological advancements, investing in Virtual Reality Game Development in India provides a lot of benefits to businesses as well as users. Take a look at the various benefits of Virtual Reality game development.
1. Increased Customer Engagement
When talking about Virtual Reality games, one thing you can be certain about is increased customer engagement. With VR technology, organizations can offer an engaging and immersive gaming experience that captures the attention of users and drives them towards the VR gaming platform. The enhanced customer engagement leads to higher customer retention, increased brand loyalty, and in turn increased sales and revenue.
2. Increase in Sales
Virtual Reality Game Companies strive to develop highly robust and sophisticated VR games that offer a unique and immersive experience across a wide range of devices. By providing an unprecedented experience, we can convert potential customers into buyers. Consumers are more inclined towards products they are engaged with. By providing better user experiences we can ensure to increase sales of our product and in turn revenue.
3. Unique Product
By incorporating VR technology in your products, you provide users with a unique product that provides a competitive edge over your competitors. VR games can help you stand out in the market and they can be especially beneficial for industries that have an oversaturated market. By providing an unprecedented experience, businesses can offer a unique selling product that allows organisations to stand out in the competitive market and increase brand awareness.
4. Cost-effective Solution
By creating a virtual experience, VR game developers can replace physical products and services which can greatly decrease the cost of production, distribution, and storage. It can be a cost-effective solution for your organisation if you integrate your products with VR technology.
Why Choose BR Softech for Virtual Reality Game Development?
As a leading VR Game Development Company, BR Softech has been developing cutting-edge VR games for multiple platforms. Our developers are well-versed in advanced technologies and use their expertise to develop hyper-realistic and responsive VR games. With over 12 years of experience, we are a pioneer in Virtual Reality app development and use our expertise to create innovative and out-of-the-box solutions. We offer-
Q 1. How much does it cost to develop a Virtual Reality game?
Ans. The cost of developing a VR game is dependent on various factors. On average, it costs around $30,000 to $40,000 to develop a VR game. However, if you want to develop a cross-platform game, the cost can go up to $50,000.
Q 2. How long does it take to develop a Virtual reality (VR) game?
Ans. It takes around 3 to 5 months to develop a VR app from scratch.
Q 3. Do you provide customized Virtual reality app development?
Ans. Yes, as a prominent Virtual Reality game development company, we offer completely customized software solutions for virtual reality game apps. Our customized solutions are bespoke and tailored to the client’s requirements.
Q 4. What are the top 10 Virtual Reality game development companies in India & USA?
Ans. Various companies deal in VR game development, and each has specifications. For you, we have compiled a list of the best 10 virtual reality game development companies that have made a big hype around the world by offering innovative and top-notch VR game development solutions. Here is the list of prominent VR game development services providers. Let’s start to know. BR Softech Oculus Studios Cloudhead Games ILMxLAB Polyarc Juego Studio Fast Travel Games Archiact Schell Games Ready At Dawn
Q 5. How to choose the best VR game development company?
Ans. As we all know only a professional and experienced VR development company can give a perfect shape to your VR game idea so hiring an experienced company for your VR game project is a must. That’s why, for your help, we have curated a list of top factors that should be kept in mind while choosing the right Virtual reality game software provider. Experience and expertise Total no. of developed VR games Client’s feedback and testimonials Technical expertise VR game development cost Success ratio of completed VR games Communication and Collaboration Budget and cost The development team of VR games
If you follow the above-given factors while choosing a VR company, you will hire the best one.
Q 6. What are popular frameworks for VR development?
Ans. Here is the list of the best frameworks for VR game development that are used by virtual reality game development companies to create VR games. Primrose React VR Daydream VR Mozilla A-Frame WebVR Unity VR/Unreal SDK
Q 7. How to hire the best virtual reality game developers?
Ans. To hire the best VR game developers, you have to count various aspects such as experience, expertise, technical skills, total no. of developed projects, budget, and many more. Always go for the best one, because they are responsible for shaping your game idea to life.
I am Nitin Garg, founder of BR Softech PVT LTD - an award-winning mobile game development company known for its excellence in the gaming domain. We have a team of 180+ exceptional professionals & we have a satisfied clientele of 2.7k+ globally. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, I aim to elevate BR Softech to a billion-dollar company.