Walker is an ambitious and boldly creative new work from director Yonatan Oberklied out of Israel. It is designed to work in tandem with a treadmill. In today’s Spotlight, we learn about the project’s origins, production, and ambitions.
What led to the creation of this piece?
The project began when I brought an old VR headset from university to show my father and brother. They instantly fell in love with the medium, but we all felt something was missing: a locomotion solution to serve as an alternative to the standard controller joystick and help mitigate motion sickness. This need led to the creation of Michau, a device we developed that translates a treadmill’s physical motion into virtual movement within the VR space.
At the same time, I was considering a thesis for my M.F.A. in digital media. I wanted to create a compelling story and build a world incorporating Michau as a central gameplay element. Drawing from my interests and hobbies, I aimed to infuse my project with sci-fi elements reflecting my passion for the genre. This is how Walker was conceived.
Kindly note that the version presented at the festival is, unfortunately, without the treadmill. I hope attendees can still appreciate the concept and its story.
How did you become an immersive media content creator and why?
I became an immersive media content creator after falling in love with Unity during my second year of university. It was amid the COVID pandemic, and with little to do at home, I initially thought 3D art was my passion. However, I quickly discovered Unity and its potential for creating interactive experiences. Since then, I’ve seized every opportunity to work with Unity, particularly on XR projects, which has only deepened my enthusiasm for immersive media.
What is the VR/AR industry like in your region?
The XR industry in my region is growing rapidly, but only a few studios and developers are leveraging it for art and entertainment. Most applications focus on education and research, highlighting a significant opportunity for expanding creative uses in this space.
What do you have planned for the future?
My goal now is to seek new opportunities to explore the medium further. I’m interested in participating in innovative and creative projects, developing more immersive equipment to enhance experiences in virtual spaces, and exploring how XR can benefit humanity and beyond.
What would you like to share with fellow content creators and the industry?
It truly matters! There’s so much untapped potential in XR, and you are the key to bringing it to life. I believe the golden age of this medium is still ahead of us.
Do you think VR festivals like FIVARS are important?
Yes, absolutely. Festivals like FIVARS are crucial because they help people understand what this medium is truly capable of. The vast majority of the world still needs to be convinced that XR can serve humanity’s best interests, let alone be recognized as a legitimate and respected art form. Events like FIVARS provide opportunities for new perspectives and can inspire others to see the potential of XR in a different light.
Walkerplays at FIVARS 2024 Festival October 3rd through October 8th.
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