Meta Launches Ouro Interactive
The tech giant aims to elevate user experience, attract mobile gamers, and create immersive experiences within the virtual universe.
Ouro Interactive
Meta's metaverse VP, Vishal Shah, recently disclosed the company's decisive move to launch Ouro Interactive, a dedicated VR game studio to reinvigorate Horizon Worlds. With a focus on cutting-edge technology, Ouro Interactive seeks to develop visually stunning and immersive first-party titles, offering users more engaging gameplay within the virtual universe.
To expand Horizon Worlds' appeal, Meta plans to extend the platform to app stores, targeting the massive mobile gaming audience worldwide. The introduction of cross-platform play will enable users without VR headsets to join the virtual universe through the game's mobile version, making it more accessible and inclusive.
Furthermore, Meta has invested significant efforts in enhancing user experience within Horizon Worlds. Enabling developers to import assets using third-party tools streamlines the creation process for more complex games. The company's focus on generative AI tools also empowers users with limited 3D rendering knowledge to build and create in the virtual world. Meta aims to nurture a thriving metaverse community by fostering a collaborative and creative environment.
Operating Losses and the Metaverse Landscape
Despite Meta's renewed commitment to its metaverse endeavours, the company faced operating losses in its Reality Labs department during Q2 of 2023. The losses, totaling $3.7 billion, were attributed to ongoing product development for Quest VR headsets and Horizon Worlds. However, Meta remains steadfast in its dedication to AI and the metaverse, as reiterated by CEO Mark Zuckerberg in a recent earnings call.
While Meta presses forward with revitalizing Horizon Worlds, some companies have opted to scale back their metaverse projects. Disney, for instance, closed its virtual world-building efforts and laid off its metaverse team earlier this year.
