THE VERSE co-founder Blake Spurgin discusses the realization of what was once considered a pipe dream - the debut of the first single-server metaverse and the future of virtual reality gaming. The evolution of online gaming is acknowledged, highlighting the current trend toward immersive experiences with realistic visuals and sound effects that transport players into virtual worlds. THE VERSE, positioned as a unique metaverse, enables an untethered experience on Meta Quest 3, allowing users to seamlessly explore and interact with the virtual environment. In particular, it runs on a single server, a first for any MMO or RPG, ensuring continuity and a unified experience. Beyond being a game, THE VERSE is presented as a virtual ecosystem where users can simulate life and even purchase real estate. Created with the vision of reinventing the metaverse, THE VERSE prioritizes connectivity, personalization, and limitless possibilities.
Korea IT Times sets the stage for a Q&A with Spurgin, who delves into the evolution of virtual reality, the inspiration behind THE VERSE, and its unique features.
Blake Spurgin, a fusion of aerospace and business expertise, holds degrees in aerospace engineering, physics, and an MBA. Passionate about video games and lore, he is on a mission to create the first fully functional metaverse.
Q: What inspired you to embark on the journey of creating a virtual world similar to "Ready Player One"?
A: I have often imagined a multiplayer world where friends from around the world could come together to play. However, the idea I discussed with friends or other gamers was not the reality we see in VR. Let alone untethered VR. I think VR is still in its infancy. There are really only two devices that are truly untethered, Quest 2 and Quest 3, and a lot of games are not made for untethered VR. Their worlds are small and a lot of what you see is not real, meaning they use stylized graphics, or when you drive or move, not all the mechanics are physically generated and some are simulated. We set out to change that and create a true metaverse. One built from the ground up for the sole purpose of existing and only accessible to others with an untethered VR device.
This all started for me about 3 years ago when we set out to explore the possibilities of bringing this vision to life.
Q: How did the idea evolve and what were the initial focuses of your exploration?
A: It started with a vision. And everything else had to fall within that vision: To build a world that can be constantly evolved and expanded. Dedicated to untethered VR. And it had to be multiplayer and have lots of quests and the best parts of all the games we had ever played. And as we went along, I made sure that everything fell into that vision. Our ship isn't hard to turn, 3 players, and some fantastic developers who helped us get here along the way.
Q: What specific shortcomings in existing VR games led you to pursue this project?
A: When you load into VRchat, Horizon Worlds, Alt Space, or any other game for that matter. It takes a while to load in, and then you have to choose where you want to go. Some game types have broken servers per area and some don't have matchmaking and some do, but it's very cumbersome for the user. For the novice everyday user, this interface is difficult to enjoy and find things you want... Yes, there are some great games that have come out, but they take forever to get from place to place and aren't really multiplayer except for running and fighting. You also have to reload when you go from one small location to another. What we are building and will continue to iterate on is a world for literally everyone, connected and built for VR. In THE VERSE, we set out to build the world mentioned above, but we also incorporated the concept of decentralized and sandbox virtual land into this metaverse because that is where the future of commerce will take place.
Q: Can you tell us about the key features of your Early Access, Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that will be released in October 2023?
A: The Early Access MVP features fast loading times (5-10 seconds max), a huge world of 250 square kilometers, and a wealth of interactive options including 9+ multiplayer vehicles (cars, boats, hoverbikes, jetpacks, snowmobiles). We have 2 main quests, a training park, a shooting range and 3 hunting camps. In addition, users can purchase and customize externally by moving, rotating, and selecting each floor. Internally, you can currently customize the land with furniture, rugs, art, and props. All of which can be rotated in all directions.
Q: What sets your project apart from traditional VR games, and what are your future development goals?
A: Our focus on fast loading (you are in the world in less than 10 seconds from opening the app), scalability and easy expansion with new modules sets us apart. The goal is to create a fully functional metaverse with features like land and commerce integration (expected late 2024). We're committed to constant innovation and expansion with upcoming features like advanced mobility options like a grappling hook, gliding, and diving, more multiplayer quests, and a comprehensive attribute and skill system. We are not really a game, we are the first true metaverse. Only in untethered VR, all on the same server, and everything you can imagine you can do in real life, but in THE VERSE.
Q: Can you give us a glimpse into the upcoming features and the lore that connects your virtual world?
A: We have an extensive list of upcoming features including scuba diving, the grappling hook, voice chat, mining, climbing, fishing, health items, ability orbs, magic in the verse called HANA, a host of additional features for land including the ability to trade, create art, design music, and share your place with friends. The lore that connects the world is elaborate and intricate. We aim to allow many users to enjoy the different areas and will continue to expand to include all genres, a place for everyone, in the future. We also plan to incorporate AI features into many aspects of the game, but details will be released when we are ready.
Q: How do you plan to continually improve your metaverse in the future?
A: We are dedicated to the long-term vision of creating a game that you only buy once. We have built this game to continually evolve and grow, and it can, structurally. So we will be adding features, and as we do so, we will be continually upgrading features and adding improvements that are needed. You don't have to buy another game. Period. Throughout my career, I have interacted with many software and mechanical processes and have been fortunate enough to improve many of those processes. Our desire to improve is fundamental to who I am, and it is and will continue to permeate every part of our game.
