Today we’re taking a look at Infinite Realities Multi Light Scans tech demo which showcases their impressive use of the Unity Engine which can be used with a number of applications including video games, and as showcased, can be used with the forthcoming Oculus Rift. The video highlights how realistic Next Gen character models can look under a number of lighting conditions, and looks like paving the way forwards for next generation rendering.  However, it’s one thing showcasing models in a closed environment, but what about real applications. What is perhaps jarring about the details here is that given a fitting gaming scenario (characterization, animations, and story) how would interactions with these models play out, and what effect could that have on the player? Given the right levels of depth to the characters, such as what we’ve seen in games like Heavy Rain and potential with Beyond Two Souls, the possibilities are staggering to think about.

From this particular demo, it’s perhaps easy to think of sexual content (especially with the Rift in mind), but what about more traditional situations such as in first person adventures, or shooters where players are tasked with killing – imagine a game where players are a murderer like Jack the Ripper, and how this level of detail brings new horizons for gaming.

The distinction between gaming character and reality is pretty clear cut at present due to game design itself, but with developers being able to create these ultra  realistic models, where does the future lie? Is too much realism a bad thing, or simply a natural progression for gaming.

The video contains nudity, so please be aware of this if you’re not in a suitable location.

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