Have you ever dreamed of being a character in your own video game? With the addition of Labo VR (virtual reality) to the Nintendo Lab series, gamers can now opt into being part of their own gaming experience. In addition, “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Super Mario Odyssey” will get free Labo VR updates that allow players to experience the games in a whole new fashion.
VR systems create simulated environments that place players within the game, which differs from simply looking at a screen. Most, if not all, VR systems are designed for a player to wear on their head and can be purchased separately at gaming stores.
The Nintendo Labo series consists of multiple sheets of cardboard that you fold and put together to give yourself a new playing experience, like a DIY project. You can purchase cardboard sets to create a fishing pole, keyboard, camera and now a VR headset.
With these free updates, both “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Super Mario Odyssey” will receive extra content that is exclusive to the Labo VR. According to IGN, “The Super Mario Odyssey update will be added in three new mini-missions where you collect musical notes and coins as you revisit the Cap, Seaside and Luncheon Kingdoms.” “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” will receive a new feature called the Toy-Con VR Goggles, which allows players to game with the VR headset on.
Many students are excited to see Labo VR come to the Nintendo Switch.
Noel Goodrich, a sophomore history major, said she is excited to see Nintendo games enter new territory of player experience.
Others, like Thomas Firestone, a sophomore film major, are looking forward to “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” upgrade.
“Exploring an open-world game such as Zelda will take it to a whole other level,” Firestone said. “Games with breathtaking worlds such as “Breathe of The Wild” will look amazing. Thinking of the future too, games like Metroid Prime will be perfect for this.”
Though many people are excited about the Labo VR update, some individuals are skeptical.
Sean Blacklock, a sophomore history major, believes Nintendo will waste the opportunity like they have in the past. He pointed to the Nintendo multiplayer online service as an example.
“Nintendo is famous for wasting opportunities and bungling otherwise simple and easy ideas; just look at the sad excuse for online play on any Nintendo console,” Blacklock said. “Unfortunately, this will probably be another case where something great could happen but probably won’t.”
Though VR sounds amazing, be careful when purchasing a VR headset, since they come with some negative effects. According to Vest, some VR units can increase a person’s anxiety levels, strain their eyes and make them nauseous. Vest also warns of the concern of radiation exposure. If you decide to purchase the Labo VR or any VR system, make sure to read the safety manual and consider the pros and cons.