DPVR used CES 2024 to showcase two VR headsets relevant to the arcade industry: the established E4 and the new commercial E4C. The announcements are particularly notable for operators and manufacturers looking for alternatives to more familiar VR hardware platforms.
DPVR E4: the headset behind Godzilla Kaiju Wars VR
DPVR’s E4 headset is already being used in Raw Thrills’ upcoming Godzilla Kaiju Wars VR. The system was demonstrated publicly at IAAPA 2023, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the hardware before its CES appearance.
Designed for PC VR and Steam-based AAA games, the E4 has a 120Hz display and weighs 280g. It has also attracted interest from sim-racing users. The commercial version shown at CES adds an upgraded cooling system, stereo speakers, a longer detachable cable and a leather face liner.
For Godzilla Kaiju Wars VR, the headset is modified with six degrees of freedom, dual 4K 120Hz displays and a 116-degree field of view. More information is available on the official Godzilla page.
“We were amazed by the response of the CES 2024 crowd lined up to play our revolutionary Godzilla Kaiju Wars VR XD arcade experience,” said Eugene Jarvis, Raw Thrills CEO. “The project would not have been possible without DPVR, and their fantastic E4 headsets. Their remarkable image quality and lightweight user comfort elevated the Godzilla experience to the next level!”
For operators comparing new VR attractions with more traditional simulator and racing arcade systems, the E4’s weight, display performance and cooling design are relevant considerations. Reliability and ongoing servicing remain just as important as image quality when equipment is used by the public.
DPVR E4C targets commercial arcade installations
DPVR also introduced the E4C, a commercial headset intended for arcade equipment. It replaces the company’s E3C and is designed to be adopted by other arcade machines. Consumers can also purchase the E4C through DPVR’s consumer shop.
Arcade systems already using multiple headsets include Andamiro USA’s SpongeBob VR Bubble Coaster. Third-party conversion kits have also been reported for Virtual Rabbids, suggesting that replacement and upgrade paths may be possible for some existing attractions.
The E4C was presented as a visual upgrade over the established E3C, with arcade equipment providers in mind. DPVR positioned it around affordability, operator profitability and a stronger visual experience for players.
The headset features a 4K display, a 90Hz refresh rate and a 116-degree field of view. Its 3DoF design is intended for VR theme parks and attractions such as VR roller coasters, rotating chairs and simulator rigs.
DPVR also highlighted the durability and consistent performance of its arcade headsets. The E3C was described as having a seven-year track record in the specialised arcade display-accessory market, while the E4 range has been developed around customer requirements. The company offers customisation services for manufacturers and operators with specific installation needs.
“CES 2024 set a great platform for DPVR to connect with consumers and VR content providers,” said Derek Liu, DPVR vice president. “Being back on the Vegas trade show floor five years later, the team brings collaborative solutions with partners across various industries. The company holds the commitment to delivering accessible VR headsets for all walks of life. Besides the enterprise-focused solutions and customization services demoed on the spot, there could be more to expect from DPVR’s consumer product portfolio in the new year ahead.”
Could DPVR challenge the usual arcade VR choice?
DPVR is positioning the E4C as a practical alternative for arcade manufacturers that have traditionally relied on HTC Vive hardware. Whether it achieves wider adoption will depend on factors such as purchase cost, compatibility, durability and long-term maintenance.
The use of a modified E4 in Godzilla Kaiju Wars VR gives DPVR a high-profile commercial example. However, operators will need to assess each headset against the requirements of their particular attraction, including motion systems, cleaning routines, replacement parts and service support. These considerations also matter when planning a new arcade machine purchase or maintaining an existing installation through suitable arcade repair and maintenance support.
Apple’s Vision Pro is unlikely to become a standard public-arcade headset at its reported US$3,500 price, particularly where equipment must withstand frequent customer use. Commercially focused devices such as the E4C are aimed at a very different operating environment.
For more developments across the industry, visit the RETROCADE arcade blog.
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