What could possibly make people’s favorite video games and shows even more intense? The feeling of actually being in that world, feeling what the characters feel, and getting lost in their entertainment. That is where the Vortx comes in! This 4D environmental simulator will physically recreate virtual environments in your home.

“Imagine feeling the effects of bullets whizzing by and battlefield explosions in Battlefield. Or what about the swirling inferno of Drogon’s fiery breath in Game of Thrones?”

One of my favorite things to do as a child was to take a ride in a 3D motion theater, where not only did the things on screen get all up in your personal space, but it really FELT like you were experiencing what was happening as the ride went on. Now, if their Kickstarter is successful, everyone will be able to have that fun of a simulator ride in their living room! When gamers put on that VR headset, they could feel the wind in their face; how cool is that!?

So, how does it work? The Vortx’s software engine uses “adaptive algorithms to analyze scenes in real-time, then translates on-screen effects into real world sensations you can feel, like wind, fire and ice.” The best part is that this device doesn’t even need outside integration to work, it doesn’t need support from the game’s or movie’s source, it works all by itself! The Vortx will work with any game or video platform, no matter how old or new, so get ready to rewatch favorite childhood movies with brand new excitement!

The device actually recognizes things happening on the screen and replicates what’s happening with airflow and temperature changes. According to the Kickstarter page:

“Built by and for gamers, Vortx was created to be easily integrated with your existing PC setup. Simply plug in and start experiencing. Vortx analyzes what is happening on-screen to create physical effects and sensations you can feel. From fiery explosions to the rush of wind at high speeds, Vortx puts you in the center of the action so you can feel what you see.”

The Vortx even has adjustable intensity that can be change simply by turning the dial. The LED lights can be customized to match your mouse and keyboard, and the air nozzle is adjustable, so users can direct the airflow where it will make the best contact. It works with devices like the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive to make your VR experience even more unforgettable, but it will also work with any game, video, steaming service, whether it’s VR or not!

The Kickstarter page explains that the idea for this amazing device came to the CEO of Whirlwind FX while trying out a VR scenario:

“Sprung from the mind of our CEO and founder Tim, the idea arose one day as he was trying out a VR experience that placed him on top of Mount Everest; a door opened nearby letting in a rush of cool air that matched what he was seeing. At that moment, the symphony of sight, sound and touch sparked a mission to share his experience.

Through a chance encounter via mutual friends Tim was introduced Matt, who now leads software engineering efforts. Trial and error produced many great (and some ill-advised) advances in development over the first year or so, until one day a major breakthrough was discovered.

What had seemingly stunted the growth of traditional haptic and immersive devices, was now able to be overcome. Using an ingenious approach to data manipulation and audio/video capture, real-time environmental analysis could be achieved by Vortx. Meaning that ALL content was accessible and compatible with Vortx eliminating any need for integration by developers or content creators.

From that point on, revisions were made based on feedback received from gaming hardware and consumer tech communities around the globe. This resulted in a size reduction of over 50% and heavily refined software that increased accuracy, compatibility and reduced latency among many other improvements.”

What do you think of the Vortx? Will you be one of many backers on their Kickstarter? Let us know in the comment section below and then make sure to follow DFTG on Twitter to stay updated on all the hottest gaming and entertainment news 24/7! Have you seen the live-action Assassin’s Creed: Origins trailer? Check it out right here!