Pune-based game developer SuperGaming has joined forces with Google to incorporate accessibility features into their upcoming futuristic battle royale game, Indus. While gameplay footage of the PC version is yet to be revealed, SuperGaming has confirmed that they have integrated custom support for Project Gameface, allowing players with cognitive or motor challenges to control in-game actions using head movements and facial expressions. This feature aims to promote inclusivity and can be easily set up by scanning the player’s face through the Gameface app. The technology was recently showcased at the Google I/O event in Bengaluru, offering attendees a hands-on experience.
Introducing Project Gameface: Enhancing Hands-Free Gameplay
Project Gameface, an open-source hands-free technology developed by Google, utilizes a standard webcam to scan and interpret facial movements. This enables players to map facial gestures to actions performed with a mouse and keyboard. To prevent any unintentional reflexes from being mistaken as in-game actions, the software allows users to adjust the size of gestures. Essentially, the technology aims to utilize a wide range of facial expressions, including eyebrow movement, mouth movement, grins, and head tilts, which can be configured to control camera movement. Although the tool is still in development, SuperGaming’s teaser suggests that omnidirectional camera movement is possible, albeit with some lag. It is important to note that the PC version showcased might be unoptimized and still lacks gameplay trailers.
SuperGaming’s Collaboration with Bandai Namco and the Concept of Indus
In a recent development, Bandai Namco Entertainment, renowned for publishing titles such as Elden Ring and Dark Souls, invested in SuperGaming to help develop its “IP metaverse.” Currently, SuperGaming is focused on creating their battle royale shooter, Indus, which is set on a floating island named Virlok. In the game, players assume the role of the Mythwalker, a hired gun working for the COVEN organization, on a mission to acquire the rare mineral Cosmium, capable of manipulating space and time. Similar to other battle royale games, players are dropped onto the map and must scavenge for supplies, survive, and eliminate their opponents to emerge as the last person standing. At regular intervals, Cosmium will spawn at a random location on the map, and capturing it guarantees victory, regardless of the remaining players.
Diverse Gameplay Modes and Future Updates
Indus offers both first-person and third-person perspectives, with the latter briefly transitioning to first-person when aiming down sights, rather than solely narrowing the hip-fire reticle. The game features a variety of uniquely designed operators to choose from, although additional tailored abilities will only be introduced after the game’s launch. As a mobile game, Indus will be free-to-play upon release and will incorporate monetization methods commonly seen in similar titles. Players will have the option to purchase cosmetics and other in-game items from the store, with no confirmed pay-to-win mechanics.
In summary, SuperGaming’s partnership with Google to introduce accessibility features in their upcoming battle royale game, Indus, demonstrates their commitment to inclusivity. By utilizing Google’s Project Gameface technology, players with cognitive or motor challenges can control in-game actions through facial expressions and head movements. With the support of Bandai Namco Entertainment, SuperGaming aims to create an immersive gaming experience set in the unique world of Virlok. Indus will offer diverse gameplay modes and the potential for future updates, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for players.
Leave a Reply