The original Doom game has solidified its place in the history of PC gaming as a landmark title. However, a recent development has taken this classic game to new heights by showcasing it on a volumetric display. This innovative device is made up of a strip or array of LEDs that rotate rapidly, creating a holographic-like image in front of the viewer. A YouTuber known as Ancient has been experimenting with running Doom on various gadgets and displays, but their work with a volumetric display has truly captured the attention of many.
Despite the impressive progress made by Ancient in getting Doom to run on a homemade volumetric display, there are still some limitations to consider. One of the most noticeable drawbacks is the limited draw distance in the game, which is directly related to the size of the display. Due to the small scale of Ancient’s homemade system, the draw distance is significantly shorter, reminiscent of early 3D games on the original PlayStation. Additionally, the resolution of the display poses a challenge, as increasing the number of LEDs for more pixels would add complexity and weight to the device. The noise generated by the motor and rotating display also detracts from the overall experience.
It is important to acknowledge that Ancient’s work with the volumetric display is self-funded and homemade, making their accomplishments all the more commendable. While there are clear limitations to the current setup, the progress made thus far is undeniably impressive. Comparing Ancient’s homemade display to commercial options like the Voxon VX2, which comes with a hefty price tag of $6,800, highlights the potential of DIY projects in this field.
While it may not be practical to replace high-resolution gaming monitors with volumetric displays at this time, the demonstration of Doom on such a device offers a glimpse into the future of PC gaming. The immersive nature of volumetric displays could revolutionize the way games are experienced, providing a new level of depth and engagement for players. Despite the current limitations, the possibilities for expansion and improvement in this technology are vast.
The integration of Doom with a volumetric display represents a significant step forward in the world of PC gaming. While there are challenges to overcome, the creativity and dedication shown by individuals like Ancient pave the way for exciting advancements in display technology. As we look towards the future, the prospect of playing games on volumetric displays opens up a world of possibilities for immersive and interactive gaming experiences. Ripping and tearing through the virtual world may soon take on a whole new meaning with the evolution of volumetric display technology.
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