The original Doom game has been a cornerstone in the world of PC gaming for over three decades. Its popularity has not waned, making it a go-to choice for those delving into coding or electronics projects. Recently, a YouTuber known as Ancient took on the challenge of running Doom on a volumetric display, giving us a glimpse into the future of PC gaming. But what exactly is a volumetric display?
A volumetric display is a device comprised of a strip or array of LEDs that are rapidly rotated. The changing lights create an image that fills a volume in front of the viewer, similar to a holographic display seen in movies like Star Wars. Ancient’s experiment with Doom on a volumetric display has been met with excitement and interest, showcasing the potential of this technology in the gaming world.
While the concept of running Doom on a volumetric display is innovative, there are evident limitations to overcome. One major issue is the draw distance, which is directly linked to the size of the display. Ancient’s homemade system, though impressive, falls short in draw distance compared to modern gaming standards. Additionally, the resolution of the display poses a challenge, as increasing the number of LEDs would add complexity to programming and weight to the device. Furthermore, the noise generated by the rotating motor and airflow can be distracting, affecting the overall gaming experience.
Despite these challenges, Ancient’s work on the volumetric display is commendable. Their dedication and self-funded efforts have led to remarkable advancements in displaying Doom on unconventional platforms. While high-end commercial options like the Voxon VX2 display exist, Ancient’s homemade creation offers a unique glimpse into the future of gaming without the hefty price tag.
Although we may not be swapping our high-resolution gaming monitors for volumetric displays just yet, the demonstration of Doom on a volumetric display hints at the exciting possibilities ahead. This experiment may serve as a preview of what the future holds for PC gaming enthusiasts, with advancements in technology pushing the boundaries of traditional gaming experiences. As we look forward, the dream of having a volumetric display large enough to showcase the full draw distance in Doom becomes a tantalizing prospect. The future of PC gaming is bright, and the potential for innovation is limitless. It’s time to rip and tear into a new era of gaming technology.