According to recent data from Statista, the global virtual reality (VR) video game industry is projected to exceed $2.4 billion by 2024. This growth reflects significant advancements in technology and increasing consumer interest.
Virtual reality technology has evolved considerably since its inception, with the first prototype, Sensorama, developed in 1962. This device allowed users to experience 3D films with accompanying stereo sound and scent.
In the early 1980s, VPL Research introduced gloves capable of detecting finger movements, paving the way for further innovations such as the DataSuit and Eyephone, which tracked body movements. The 1990s saw the introduction of VR in gaming with Sega VR and Nintendo's Virtual Boy, although these early attempts did not lead to widespread adoption.
The Oculus Rift prototype emerged in 2010, initiated by Palmer Luckey's Kickstarter campaign, which successfully raised $250,000. The project later garnered attention from Facebook, which acquired Oculus for $2 billion.
In addition to gaming, VR technology is making strides in the medical field. The Spanish Society of Obesity Surgery reports that VR is being utilized for diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders, as well as in the education of medical professionals.
Notably, VR has been employed in complex surgeries, including a recent 27-hour operation in Brazil where British and Brazilian doctors used VR to assist in separating twins joined at the head. This procedure involved nearly 100 health professionals and included practice sessions conducted earlier in June.