Top 3 Augmented Reality Gaming Consoles

This list is in no way sequential, but represents the innovation that augmented reality developers are using in video game consoles.

1. PlayStation Vita

One of the main facets of the Vita is that their developers are creating “markerless augmented reality.” Without the addition of set cards to act as markers, the Vita will soon be able to play games and create game environments just by the console focusing on an object, such as a carpet. This is one of most exciting shifts that is happening with augmented reality developers at this time.

Besides the promise of commercial markerless augmented reality, the Vita has a range of games based on AR cards that can be placed in an environment to create a game. The Vita game Table Soccer, for instance, uses AR cards which can set the parameters of how the soccer field will look like on the console. Though some reviewers have criticized this simplified approach to AR, this idea still provides a unique experience for the user at a cost that you cannot beat, free.

The Vita also has games that are based on the environment in which a game is played, using it as a backdrop. Reality Fighters displays the environment the user is currently in while also displaying the fighters that are bouncing around and fighting each other to death. It is a silly and all-out fun game that is sure to be a hit with AR enthusiasts.

2. Nintendo 3DS

Starting from its autostereoscopic screen that provides impressive graphic depth, the 3DS is already a keeper. But Nintendo takes it a step further with its augmented reality games that use AR cards and other games that prompt you to engage in your environment.

The AR card games are reminiscent of classic Nintendo in that its simplicity makes it an engaging experience. Other AR games like Spirit Camera: The Cursed Memoir takes their AR games to another level. It features an AR diary that the user reads and enters into while they read it. These type of immersive environments make for the 3DS to be a unique provider of AR experiences.

3. PlayStation 3

Though not primarily an augmented reality console, Sony is releasing an augmented reality game based on the Harry Potter  book series through PlayStation 3. Users will have to buy Wonderbook, which is an electronic book with AR cards built-in to its pages, to play. Harry Potter, Book of Spells is an innovatively interactive experience that allows the user to truly immerse themselves into a game.

With the PlayStation move remote, users can learn to cast spells, learn about the history of the spells, and fight against creatures. The gameplay is mainly for preteens and younger, but true Harry Potter buffs can be still intrigued by this fresh way to interact with the phenomenal book world created J.K. Rowling.

Gravity Jack is one of the leading innovators in augmented reality development so be ready to see what they’ll come out with in the future.