For many virtual-reality evangelists, one of the first games you mention when you’re recommending titles for VR newcomers is Beat Saber. The title, which is available on PlayStation VR, Oculus platforms, and Vive, delivers fast-paced, rhythm-based action centered around swinging two lightsabers to the beat of the song you’ve selected. It’s an approachable title that has become a tentpole experience for all of virtual reality. Facebook, the parent company of Rift and Quest company Oculus, today announced its acquisition of Beat Games, the studio behind the VR hit.
Despite Beat Games now being under the same corporate umbrella, Oculus says the studio will continue to develop for all platforms simultaneously. Oculus says that this acquisition will give Beat Games additional resources to accelerate new features and songs going forward, with the next update, which will add 360° levels, still scheduled for December. However, Oculus does say that while it’s hoping to preserve the vibrant modding scene for Beat Saber, players may notice some changes related to third-party IP rights (likely pertaining to custom songs).
In the lead up to this announcement, Beat Saber had been featured prominently in the marketing for Oculus Quest, including a widely aired commercial you can see above. Oculus says that while it doesn’t have any announcements of other studio acquisitions at this time, “[w]e’re exploring many ways to accelerate VR, and we think next year is going to be an incredible one of VR game launches and announcements. We are thrilled to have Beat Games join our team. This is just the beginning.”
For more on Beat Saber, check out our review.
[Source: Oculus]