‘Job Simulator’ and ‘Demeo’ Among First to Support Android XR Before Samsung Headset Release

Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games have exciting news for the gaming world. They’re now supporting Android XR, which means some of their most beloved games will be making their way to Google’s upcoming XR platform.

We’re all eagerly awaiting the debut of Android XR, and it’s set to launch on Samsung’s ‘Project Moohan’ mixed reality headset, expected to hit the market in 2025. Unlike previous endeavors like Daydream, this is a full-fledged version of Android designed specifically for XR headsets. It promises not just a library of traditional Android apps but also a wealth of immersive XR content to enjoy.

Both Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games are stalwarts in the XR arena, known for their robust support of VR technology across various platforms. Their latest move is consistent with their strategy of being first in line to embrace new technological advancements.

In their separate announcements, Owlchemy Labs shared that their hit VR game Job Simulator, along with its popular sequel Vacation Simulator, will soon be available on Android XR. Resolution Games made a similar reveal for Demeo, their well-regarded title from 2021.

Samsung is drawing attention to the advanced hand and eye-tracking features of Project Moohan, positioning it as a hybrid cousin to both Apple Vision Pro and Quest. It promises to offer first-party motion controllers and support for PC VR streaming, blending unique aspects of these popular platforms.

For both Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games, the transition to Android XR has been relatively straightforward. They’ve successfully integrated hand and eye-tracking capabilities in their games for the Vision Pro, and porting these to Android XR hasn’t posed significant challenges. This ease comes thanks to Unity’s robust support for Android XR right out of the gate, facilitated by the OpenXR software standard.

As Owlchemy Labs explained, “Developing for Android XR allowed us to create immersive experiences compatible with a wide array of XR devices. The seamless integration with the Unity engine made adapting our games much simpler, direct from Unity APIs without requiring any additional third-party libraries.”

Similarly, Resolution Games’ CTO, Johan Gästrin, highlighted that Google’s ambitions in XR resonate with their vision for social gaming experiences. He considers Google’s commitment a significant moment for XR development.

These games provide inviting experiences for newcomers, from the zany fun of Job Simulator to the engrossing, cross-platform multiplayer gameplay of Demeo. However, it’s still up in the air whether other XR developers will jump on the Android XR bandwagon as eager and quickly as Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games. Much hinges on Project Moohan’s reception, especially since critical factors like the headset’s price, detailed specifications, and exact release date remain under wraps.