The original Doom game has remained a significant milestone in the realm of PC gaming for over three decades. It continues to hold an enduring popularity, making it a go-to choice for experimental coding and electronics projects. Recently, a YouTuber named Ancient has been pushing the boundaries by running Doom on various gadgets and displays. One of their most intriguing experiments involved a volumetric display, offering a glimpse into the potential future of PC gaming.
A volumetric display utilizes a setup consisting of a strip or array of rapidly rotating LEDs. This configuration creates an image by changing light patterns, filling a volume in front of the viewer. Essentially, it operates as a holographic display reminiscent of sci-fi portrayals in movies like Star Wars. Despite its captivating nature, the technology comes with certain limitations that need to be addressed for practical gaming applications.
One of the primary limitations highlighted in Ancient’s demonstration is the draw distance within the game. The size of the volumetric display directly impacts how far into the virtual world the player can see. Due to the small scale of Ancient’s homemade system, the draw distance is notably restricted, comparable to early 3D games on the original PlayStation. Additionally, the resolution of the display presents another challenge. While adding more LEDs could enhance pixel density, it also complicates programming and adds weight due to increased circuitry.
Despite these challenges, Ancient’s DIY approach to volumetric display integration into gaming is commendable. The self-funded and homemade nature of the project showcases impressive dedication and skill. Comparatively, commercial solutions like the Voxon VX2 display, priced at $6,800, offer more refined capabilities. However, the differences in performance between such a high-end display and Ancient’s project may not justify the substantial cost difference.
While volumetric displays like the one demonstrated with Doom may not replace traditional high-resolution gaming monitors in the immediate future, they present a promising glimpse into potential advancements. The immersive and interactive nature of volumetric displays hints at exciting possibilities for enhancing the gaming experience. As technology continues to evolve, the prospect of larger volumetric displays with improved draw distances becomes increasingly feasible, offering gamers a new dimension in gameplay.
The convergence of iconic gaming titles like Doom with innovative technologies like volumetric displays opens up new avenues for exploration in the realm of PC gaming. While current limitations and challenges exist, the dedication and creativity of individuals like Ancient pave the way for future advancements. As we continue to push the boundaries of gaming technology, the fusion of classic games with cutting-edge display solutions promises an exhilarating journey for gamers worldwide. The future of PC gaming is filled with promise, and volumetric displays could very well play a pivotal role in shaping that future.
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