As we design MRDRBRS, our goal is to create a game that connects with a wide range of players. We are doing this through thoughtful and intentional design. The future of VR gaming is about breaking barriers—between devices, platforms, and players. For us, cross-platform play isn’t just a technical feature. It’s a philosophy based on inclusivity, innovation, and adaptability.
How Cross-Platform Play Bridges the VR and Non-VR Divide
One of the biggest lessons we learned from developing Muffin Fight was the importance of meeting players where they are. VR offers an immersive experience, but it’s not always easy to access. Hardware costs, physical limitations, or the mental effort of setting up a headset can all be barriers. Players often go for the easiest option. I can relate: as a kid, I’d only play Super Mario 3 (our only video game) if the console was already set up and ready. If it wasn’t, I’d do something else. That behavior hasn’t changed much today, and it isn’t just me!
This experience shaped our work with clients, where we saw consistent demand for web-based versions of VR experiences. These lightweight, easy-to-access alternatives allowed users to try VR content without needing the full setup. For MRDRBRS, we’re building on this by creating gameplay that connects VR and non-VR devices. VR players can dive into immersive environments, while non-VR friends join on their phone, console or PC. This approach ensures no one is left out.
The divide between VR and non-VR audiences is still a major challenge for the industry. A 2022 Zippia report highlighted that 55% of people surveyed said the high cost of VR equipment is a key barrier to adoption. Limited content and poor user experience also hold back engagement, as highlighted by a Perkins Coie survey.
Even with these challenges, VR usage is growing. 88% of headset owners use their devices multiple times a month, and 7 in 10 use them mainly for gaming. This trend shows why creating games that engage both casual and dedicated players is important. Games like Among Us VR and Rec Room demonstrate how bridging audiences can foster deeper connections.
Designing Cross-Platform Play for Everyone, From the Start
For MRDRBRS, creating a game that reaches more players goes beyond platform availability. It also means making the game simple to use for players of all skill levels, abilities, and devices. Features like customizable controls and visual or auditory options help ensure MRDRBRS is easy to play.
From Muffin Fight, we learned that small changes—like improving UI layouts or adding new input methods—can make a big difference. It’s not just about offering options. It’s about making sure the game feels natural for every player, whether they use a VR headset, a PC, or a mobile device.
With flexible design and thoughtful planning, we aim to make MRDRBRS fun and accessible for everyone, no matter how they play.
Expanding Horizons Through Cross-Platform Gameplay
Cross-platform play helps games reach more players and unlocks new possibilities. For example, a VR player might explore an immersive world, while a non-VR teammate plans strategies on a 2D screen. These roles work together. They create experiences that appeal to casual players, competitive gamers, and spectators.
In MRDRBRS, we’re designing gameplay mechanics to make the most of each platform’s strengths:
- VR players enjoy immersive, first-person interactions.
- PC players provide a strategic view from above.
- Mobile players handle quick actions, like triggering events or giving commands.
Games like Fortnite and Minecraft show that platform flexibility brings in more players and keeps them engaged. The challenge is creating a seamless experience across platforms. At Red Iron Labs, we see this as an opportunity to innovate, not a limitation.
Lessons Learned: Iterating Cross-Platform Mechanics in MRDRBRS
As we work on MRDRBRS and move into the prototype phase, we are building on lessons from past projects. In Muffin Fight, player feedback and repeated testing helped us create a game that was fun and easy for everyone to enjoy. For MRDRBRS, we are testing several assumptions about cross-platform play, including:
- Tailored Mechanics: Do players prefer experiences that feel natural on their chosen platform?
- Social Connection: Does cross-platform support make social gaming easier by reducing barriers?
- Cohesive Identity: Do players value a unified experience, no matter the platform?
Since 2021, multiplatform games have increased by 40%, according to the 2024 Unity Gaming Report. Small studios that used to focus only on single-platform games are now developing 71% more multiplatform projects. Cross-platform play is no longer just a bonus—it has become a standard expectation. As we test these mechanics, we will look to industry trends for guidance and inspiration.
The Future of VR Gaming is Cross-Platform Play
Our goal with MRDRBRS is to create a game that adapts to the player instead of the other way around. Cross-platform play and availability are not just technical challenges. These are opportunities to create a game that welcomes everyone.
MRDRBRS connects people across VR, PC, and consoles (using our PS5 dev kit). Whether you dive into VR for an immersive session or play on mobile for quick actions, MRDRBRS ensures you can connect with friends, compete, and explore in your own way.
Building the Future of Gaming with MRDRBRS
This article concludes our series on MRDRBRS’ core pillars. First, we looked at how multiplayer and social features create immersive experiences. Next, we discussed audience engagement, which turns games into shared cultural events. And finally, we discuss how cross-platform play makes these experiences available to everyone.
Together, these 3 pillars form the foundation of MRDRBRS. They reflect our design and our vision for the future of VR gaming. Games that adjust to players, connect people, and create fun for everyone
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About Us
We’re a Calgary-based studio focusing on virtual reality. We make games and products for VR. Learn more.