We have the Oculus Quest! After a week of testing its inside-out tracking, graphical performance, and a selection of its launch games, we review the Oculus Quest standalone virtual reality headset. Let’s go in-depth with how its passthrough camera system works, guardian setup, and the quality of experiences on this game-changer for VR.
Hands-On with Valve Index VR Headset!
We recently visited Valve to preview the new Valve Index virtual reality headset! Back in our studio, we give our impressions of the headset and Index controllers (aka Knuckles), as well as talk through the technical advances that make this a potentially significant improvement over the current generation of VR headsets.
Offworld: Wall-E (2008)
This week on Offworld, we revisit the classic Pixar film WALL-E, and chat with roboticists from NASA and Softbank Robotics about the development of robots for use in space. What about the portrayal of space robots in WALL-E did we like, and what would apply to the kind of robots that would work alongside humans in space?
Tested: Nintendo Labo VR Kit Review!
We assemble and test the new Nintendo Labo: VR Kit accessories and games! From the cardboard build ups to the virtual reality experiences, we were extremely impressed by what Nintendo was able to achieve with the Switch’s display and motion-sensing hardware. Here’s how the VR toy-cons work and what it’s like to play them! (Follow Will on Twitch and watch his assembly of these Toy-Cons here.)
Episode 497 – The State of Electric Cars – 4/25/19
3D Printing and Molding the Key to Erebor!
After modeling his replica of the Key to Erebor, Darrell walks us through the process of 3D printing it on his SLA printer, and then cleaning up that print to use in the making of a two-part silicone mold. Next up, casting! Thanks to Smooth-On for providing the moldmaking materials for this project!
Ironhead Collectibles’ Striking Character Masks!
Ironhead Studio, the makers of specialty costumes and superhero suits for some of our favorite films, has started a collectibles line of striking character masks. We chat with Ironhead’s Jose Fernandez about the sculpting and paint finish of these masks, the artists he’s working with for this lineup, and how masks can transform the wearer. We can’t wait to paint one up!
On Twitter Too Much – Still Untitled: The Adam Savage Project – 4/23/19
Model Behavior: Miniature Snow Effects!
Continuing with our practice of experimenting with miniature effects we’ve seen online, Kayte and Norm try their hand at building a snow scene with a previously-assembled tank model and rocky terrain display. Watch as we make snow puddles, melted snow, and simulated powder for this winter war scene!
Offworld: The Right Stuff (1983)
This week on Offworld, Ariel is joined by Adam Savage and retired astronaut Jim Newman to talk about the 1983 movie The Right Stuff! The three discuss the film’s portrayal of early NASA missions and astronaut culture, and hear some stories about Jim Newman’s flights on the Space Shuttle.