MSI is joining the virtual reality (VR) fray with its sleek Pascal-powered computer masquerading as a backpack. The device, which is called MSI VR One, will allow its wearer to do away with cables and hardware required to run a VR setup, making way for a highly mobile VR experience.
The VR One is built to work best with the HTC Vive VR headset and is equipped with two battery packs — both hot swappable — capable of a combined 90-minute VR gameplay. MSI touts the gadget as the world's first VR backpack, citing that the company was first to realize a concept that has been largely talked about but is yet to be implemented appropriately.
The MSI VR One made its first appearance during the E3 2016 last June. MSI, however, only unveiled a prototype model during the event. The company has been developing it further since and is now slated to showcase the latest version at the Tokyo Game Show happening on Sept. 15 to 18.
MSI is quick to highlight VR One's cutting-edge technology, citing its overclocked CPU and GeForce GTX 10 graphics card built in a lightweight 3.6-kilogram backpack system.
"MSI VR One is able to deliver full throttle gaming performance under noise of 40dBA," the company said. "It comes with 1 HDMI port, 1 Mini display port and 1 ultra-speed Thunderbolt3 by Type-C port, supports highest bandwidth for dual 2K displays per eye."
What all the specs mean is that MSI VR One is akin to having a stand-alone PC strapped to the user's back without being leashed to a desktop system and stationary sensors. This is convenient and, most importantly, safe for gamers who could trip over wirings while they are engrossed in virtual space.
For those concerned how the backpack will look like, it is both lightweight and angular, with design features that MSI said were built with an "armer pack" to create a "futuristic robot machine style." In addition, users should remember that HTC collaborated with the company, so they should expect some quality in its aesthetics.
Aside from the prepared statement, MSI has not clarified how the system works in detail. For example, there was no information that explains how a user strapped with a VR headgear can determine the battery status since the LED indicator is located near the battery mounts. This particular issue could be addressed by MSI's proprietary Dragon Center software, which is accessible through a click in the VR key. Still, the world awaits its slated debut in anticipation since the MSI technology could enhance and even propel the VR industry forward.
