Sony Corporation has introduced the "Gaming Virtualizer by 360 Reality Audio," a plug-in designed to streamline the creation of spatial sound for headphones and seamlessly integrate with Wwise. With the rising demand for spatial audio in 3D games and the increased use of headphones, this plug-in utilizes Sony’s 360 Reality Audio technology to elevate immersive experiences in mobile and PC gaming.
Key Features of Gaming Virtualizer by 360 Reality Audio -
Optimized Signal Processing -
The plug-in is engineered to perform signal processing for spatial sound playback through headphones while minimizing the load on game hardware. This ensures that even devices with limited processing power, such as mobile phones, can still deliver an immersive spatial sound experience.
The software provides a low-latency, natural sound field, enhancing the player’s ability to discern sound direction, including sounds from above or behind. It offers smooth sound positioning with minimal phase interference, even during rapid changes in the player's viewpoint.
Wwise Integration -
The Gaming Virtualizer integrates with Wwise, the widely used audio middleware among game developers. This integration simplifies the sound design process for both mobile and PC games, boosting development efficiency.
The plug-in allows for tailored sound adjustments instead of a one-size-fits-all approach. For example, essential sounds like voices and effects can be spatialized, while ambient sounds can be processed differently. This flexibility enables more precise and creative spatial sound design.
Developer Validation -
The software is currently being tested by several game developers across Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and China for potential integration into their games.
As of August 2024, companies such as COLOPL, Inc., Cygames, Inc., GungHo Online Entertainment, Inc., Niantic, Inc., and SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. are validating the software.
COLOPL, Inc.'s adventure game "PRINCIPLES PROLOGUE" has already incorporated the Gaming Virtualizer, offering players a realistic spatial sound experience, including detailed audio elements like footsteps, electrical noises, and cave echoes.
In summary, Sony’s Gaming Virtualizer by 360 Reality Audio enhances gaming with immersive spatial sound for both mobile and PC platforms, optimizing performance and sound quality to enrich the overall experience.
