Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games have exciting news for fans: they’re bringing some of their best-loved titles to Google’s Android XR, the eagerly anticipated XR operating system. This strategic move sets the stage for a thrilling expansion into new virtual territories.
With Android XR poised to launch alongside Samsung’s ‘Project Moohan’ mixed reality headset in 2025, gamers and tech enthusiasts alike have a lot to look forward to. Unlike its predecessor Daydream, this is a robust version of Android tailored specifically for XR headsets. It promises to support a fantastic range of flat Android apps along with immersive XR experiences.
Being among the earliest pioneers in XR, both Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games are leveraging their long-standing expertise. They’ve always been at the forefront of VR platform support, so it’s no shock to see them diving into Android XR headfirst.
Owlchemy Labs, in its announcement, confirmed that their quirky and much-loved games, Job Simulator and its sequel, Vacation Simulator, are being adapted for Android XR. Meanwhile, Resolution Games is bringing its acclaimed Demeo to the platform as well.
Samsung has been keen to showcase Project Moohan’s advanced hand and eye-tracking features—elements that have been popular with Apple Vision Pro users. But that’s not all; like the Quest, Project Moohan will also support motion controllers and PC VR streaming, combining elements from different leading systems into one comprehensive experience.
For both Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games, transitioning their games to Android XR is proving to be a straightforward process. Thanks to Unity’s prompt support for Android XR and the integration of the OpenXR software standard, adapting these games has been more seamless than ever.
Owlchemy Labs shared their enthusiasm, stating that developing for Android XR has streamlined the process of creating captivating experiences across a broad array of devices. By tapping directly into Unity APIs, without needing external libraries, they’ve been able to transition their Unity-based games into the XR universe smoothly.
Similarly, Resolution Games’ CTO, Johan Gästrin, praised Google for sharing their vision of social experiences, highlighting Google’s strategy as a strong statement in the XR domain.
With Job Simulator’s playful antics and Demeo’s engaging multiplayer board game mechanics, these games are perfectly positioned to welcome newcomers into XR. However, it remains to be seen how quickly other studios will jump on the Android XR bandwagon, especially since the platform’s success hinges on Project Moohan’s triumph. Key factors like pricing, detailed specifications, and the final release date are still under wraps, keeping the tech and gaming community on their toes.