Allianz Stadium VR - BSS
Role
Description
In the realm of virtual reality (VR) and immersive experiences, the project I spearheaded stands as a testament to innovation and digital connection. Commissioned by Billion Seat Stadium (BSS), this venture was ambitiously designed to bridge distances and bring families and friends together in a virtual setting. The core objective was to create a VR experience that allowed users to immerse themselves in a real-time, motion-captured soccer game within a digital twin of the Allianz Stadium in Sydney, Australia. This project was particularly groundbreaking as it was completed before the actual stadium opened its doors to the public, offering a unique, pre-launch virtual experience.
As a VR Designer and Technical Artist, my journey through this project encompassed various stages, each critical in evolving the application from a basic multiplayer platform to a sophisticated, fully-integrated VR experience.
Softwares Used
Stage 1
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Set up initial application with basic multiplayer integration
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Initial setup of voice communication
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Basic loading screen into the application
Stage 2
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Design of multiplayer lobby system
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Design and integration of 4 - way communication (audio)
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Initial UI layout for lobby system
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Basic environment for testing purposes
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Initial development of soccer game simulation
Stage 3
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Implementation of 3D environment provided by client
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Optimization of the 3D scene, reducing polycount of original model from 145million to 324k poly count.
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Initial setup of the 3D environment including lighting, base toned materials.
Stage 4
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Refinement on all lights, materials, and textures.
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Converting scene to night mode, adding additional light effects. Particle systems added, baked emission lights.
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Replacing basic models with Ready Player Me avatars with animations to close proximity.
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Advertising and other media integrations to capitalize on the concept of potential alternative revenue models within the desktop VR experience as well (such as food, merch, ads, sponsors etc)
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Clean UI development and graphical work, ready for 3D VR implementations.
Conclusion
Educational Lab Simulation Tool
The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in my career as a VR Designer and Technical Artist. Through a meticulous process of development, optimization, and refinement, the project successfully transformed into a captivating VR experience. It encapsulated the essence of being present in a state-of-the-art stadium, experiencing a live soccer game, while being miles apart in reality.
Advanced Features and Realism
- Integration of 4-way voice communication
- Dynamic 3D environment creation
- Inclusion of Ready Player Me avatars
- Enhanced user engagement and realism
Furthermore, the application explored alternative revenue models within the desktop VR experience, showcasing the potential for integrating advertising and media. This not only served as a pioneering example of digital twin technology but also emphasized the project's innovative approach to revenue generation in virtual spaces.
Impact and Future Potential
This project for Billion Seat Stadium was not just a technical achievement but a creative endeavor that brought to life a virtual space where distance ceases to exist, and shared experiences flourish. As I add this project to my portfolio, it stands as a beacon of my capabilities in VR design and technical artistry, and a reminder of the limitless possibilities in the realm of virtual reality.