Gaming device designers have been trying for years to create something that takes you to new heights of immersion. However, spatial audio, VR, and haptic triggers will only get you so far, because there's one sensory input that no game takes into account: your nose. Well, no more gamers, because with the new one GameScent Unit, you can literally smell grass as you wander through the fields in Skyrim.
We got some news about this…um…thing over there Dexerto and reactions in the office ranged from “Dear God, no thanks” to “We.” have to rate one!' Essentially, GameScent appears to be an automated aromatherapy device that contains six scent injectors that blast a combination of smells into the air depending on what's happening in your game or movie.
This is done by tracking the audio feed, sending it to a server for analysis (“Powered by AI”) and then a second or two later: Phew! Your nose will connect with your eyes, ears, and hands, giving you a smell…sorry, a feeling…of what's going on. Events such as explosions, gunshots, vehicle races, clean air, forests, and storms activate olfactory-O feedback.
If that's not enough for you, you can purchase additional Pongs to compensate for situations involving napalm, human effort, oceans, and golf courses. No, it says EFFORT. Read more carefully in the future.
On a more serious note, olfactory experiences in games and movies have been tried many times over the years, but it's always been a pretty unpleasant experience/gimmick. Partly because what is a true smell to one person can be an overwhelming experience to someone else, but mostly because the air around them simply isn't full of a smell unless it is one extreme situation.
However, the premise sounds like it could be pretty cool. Imagine walking through the lands of Assassin's Creed Odyssey as the open fields and fresh air fill your nostrils, only to notice the hint of the sea in the distance as you approach the shore. It would certainly add some edge to the gaming experience.
How well the GameScent works in practice is another matter entirely, and if we ever submit one for testing we'll be sure to let you know. However, if you're based in the US and want to try it out for yourself, you can pick up the device at Amazon, Walmartand Best Buy for $150.
Everyone else has to make do with opening a window and getting a neighbor to rev their car engine while you make some kind of effort.
