Darkworks Converts 2D Games Into 3D Games With Software Update
3D is the tech story of the year in 2010, with tablet PCs following
closely behind. 3D is now everywhere: in cinemas, in HDTVs, and soon,
in video games. Sony already admitted that 3D games would eventually be
released for the PlayStation 3, and now Darkworks is making 3D possible
for everyone else. At GDC in California this week, the company
announced their TriOviz for Games SDK, which is the first available
stereoscopic SDK for game consoles.
In a few words, this technology allows existing 2D titles (or new titles that are being developed in 2D) to be enjoyed in 3D. It's a 2D-to-3D conversion, of sorts, but one of the most interesting aspects is that it doesn't require a 3D HDTV. It's made to be used on standard 2D televisions, with the patent-pending post process giving users a 3D effect without forcing them to sink more money into an expensive 3D television or active-shutter glasses. According to the company:
Darkworks has yet to talk about specific game titles that will use this technology, but they do say that it will function on PCs, Xbox 360 and the PS3. Sounds like a pretty sweet upgrade for those looking to test the 3D waters without another huge investment.
In a few words, this technology allows existing 2D titles (or new titles that are being developed in 2D) to be enjoyed in 3D. It's a 2D-to-3D conversion, of sorts, but one of the most interesting aspects is that it doesn't require a 3D HDTV. It's made to be used on standard 2D televisions, with the patent-pending post process giving users a 3D effect without forcing them to sink more money into an expensive 3D television or active-shutter glasses. According to the company:
"TriOviz for Games SDK leverages existing three dimensional graphics information to greatly enhance the depth-of-field; as well as volume and position of geometry and characters within a scene. This negates the need for rendering multiple images so TriOviz for Games does not require intensive computing power – the resolution, performance and game play integrity are maintained. As a post-process, Darkworks’ SDK easily integrates into the production pipeline, supporting both popular and proprietary game engines; requiring as little as a couple of days or a week to integrate, depending on the implementation."
Darkworks has yet to talk about specific game titles that will use this technology, but they do say that it will function on PCs, Xbox 360 and the PS3. Sounds like a pretty sweet upgrade for those looking to test the 3D waters without another huge investment.
Key Features of TriOviz for Games
- First and Only 3D Software SDK for AAA Console Games: TriOviz for Games works on Xbox 360™, PlayStation®3 and PC, delivering an immersive 3D experience to the most demanding games while maintaining performance, game play and content integrity.
- 3D Experience on 2D TVs; No Additional Equipment Required: Consumers can enjoy 3D games on their existing HDTV or even SD televisions without having to purchase additional hardware.
- Low-Impact Integration for High-Impact Return: TriOviz for Games supports both popular and proprietary game engines, resulting in minimal man-hours to deploy or hit to performance, while maintaining the original creative vision.
“The success of films like Avatar and buzz over 3D devices at CES illustrates that audiences are ready to embrace 3D for their entertainment,” stated Gourand. “We believe we can offer a quality, rich experience that honors the creators’ vision and is hassle-free for the end users as they explore the emerging in-home 3D trend.”
The first game implementing the Darkworks 3D technology is already announced, with future titles to follow Spring 2010.
