The OMNI Kickstarter Exceeds Goal in First Week

The OMNI Kickstarter Exceeds Goal in First Week

The OMNI Kickstarter began on the 4 June and within the first week it had already exceeded its financial goal of $150,000 USD, and is currently sitting at $740,675 USD with 2053 backers so far. With another 41 days to go, this exciting and much anticipated leap into virtual reality gaming is off to a phenomenal start.

The Omni is the first practical and affordable virtual reality interface which allows players to move freely and naturally in their favorite game. Natural movement in VR creates an unprecedented sense of immersion, and the Omni takes virtual reality to the next level in immersive gaming, allowing players to stand up and traverse virtual worlds with their own feet.

The device uses the Oculus Rift head set and technology, and compatible with the Razor Hydra technology as well, which means games currently being developed for the Oculus Rift will be ready to play straight away with this simple to set up plug 'n' play platform. An extensive collection of demo games are also available on the Omni website if you can't wait that long.

"It's a healthier way to game - working out has never been this much fun. Our software even tracks your distance traveled and calories burned along the way," says the Omni Kickstarter site.

The device is adjustable and easy to pack away. The top is removable so the Omni can be stowed away like exercise equipment, and the ring height and belt size are adjustable so that everyone can play. The Omni comes with the Omni shoes - specially designed to use in conjunction with the platform - a support belt and tracking hardware and software. However, the head mounted display, game controllers and PC are not included.

The Omni works by the base, a low-friction surface with grooves, and the software translates your movements into key strokes that drive your avatar in the game. Users must wear the Omni shoes as the shoes are made o fit these grooves and prevent slipping or players from falling over by keeping the foot stabilized. The shoes also have a higher friction coefficient on he tor to grant further stability and balance while moving (especially while running).

There is still another 41 days left to pitch in, but goal rewards are running out fast, so be quick if you want to be involved in this fantastic project. The $10, $25, $40, $60, $429, $459, $479, $539, $1,999, $2,999, $7,499, $7,999, and the $9,999 pledges are all still open at this point. Get in quick to help out and get your rewards.

Below is a video of the Omni at play, courtesy of the Omni Kickstarter page: