The channel Syfy is taking its name (and the ethic behind it) seriously - at least when it comes to its programming. In conjunction with its parent company NBCUniversal, the fantasy-, science-fiction-, and horror-themed station is planning on releasing a scripted short-form show that users will only be able to view with Oculus Rift, making it the first show meant to be watched in virtual reality in the history of television.
Well, sort of. While the show consists of 15 episodes total, 10 of them will be able to be watched sans VR headset, while an edition of five episodes will be for those who have preordered Oculus Rift, which has been available to secure for $600 since Jan. 6.
In an exclusive written by the Hollywood Reporter, which broke the story (the link to the presumed press release is now defunct), 15 episodes for the first season of Halcyon will be produced by the Canadian studio Secret Location.
"Syfy has consistently broken new ground with its television series and we're excited to work with them on this new multiplatform project," said studio president James Milward as reported by the Reporter. "VR is being exposed to more and more people and with projects like Halcyon, we intend to help this immersive form of entertainment grow."
According to the Verge, here's a brief synopsis of the show, which takes its name from a main character also called Halcyon:
"The show is set in 2058 when there are apparently virtual reality detectives, one of which is tasked with investigating a real-life murder that takes place in VR, something the press release says 'shouldn't even be possible.' "
While the premise sounds a tad bit like Fox's Minority Report TV adaptation (which is still in limbo, without having officially been renewed or canceled), the VR angle is bound to make a difference for Oculus Rift fans and supporters of other VR platforms in general.
For those who will be unable to get a VR headset (let alone Oculus Rift), don't fret: rundowns of the 5 VR shorts will be available in recap form online, for the future Halcyon fan to keep up with the action.
As of now, the show will begin filming in Toronto. An official release date has not been announced.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
