Gaming

4 Easy Steps to Enter an Oculus Challenge

With the latest update of Olly Power Play you can now compete with your friends online with Oculus Challenges. This offers a great way to expand your gameplay and challenge your friends to specific levels top see who will come out on the top of our leaderboards!

Continue reading to find out how you can enter an Oculus Challenge for Olly Power Play.

1) Open the Scoreboards that comes with your Oculus Quest 2. This app is where you can access all our leaderboards and where you will enter, create, and keep track of challenges.

2) Click on the challenges tab to bring up the current and closed challenges for Olly Power Play.

3) Choose a challenge! Look at all the available challenges from your friends, the Oculus community, or even from Olly.

4) Press play and start scoring points to stay ahead of the competition.

Remember you can replay challenges as often as you like before times up. So, keep throwing and have fun!

Join our Discord server to find out more tips and tricks!

Stay up to date on all things Olly Power Play by following us on social media.

Waysun Inc. Upgrades its Olly Power Play VR Experience

Waysun Inc. has now taken its target-based VR adventure game to the next level with a major update.

ORLANDO, FL – September 2022 – Waysun Inc. is delighted to introduce a major update its target-based VR adventure game, Olly Power Play, that features the curious and lovable Olly the ox. Get ready for Olly to cheer you on as you venture through over 150 levels with new engaging targets and blockers. 

Players looking for more of a challenge have access to a variety of new rock and metal blockers that have been added to gameplay. They can also experience the new Blitz Mode, which features a throwing Fruit Frenzy to test speed and accuracy where the lowest score wins. This Olly Power Play update allows users to enjoy a better multiplayer gaming experiences with friends and family through an enhanced Party Mode. Furthermore, challenges can be extended through online leaderboards with Oculus Challenges. Advanced players can show off even more by earning the brand-new Champion Star Ranking and can track their performance with Player Performance Stats.

Waysun Inc. cannot wait for Oculus Quest 2 users to grab their headsets and enjoy Olly’s significant game update. Experience Olly Power Play with immersive visual, audio, and haptic effects added to every throw that accentuate the evolving innovation of gaming in the VR industry.

This project has been a great experience to watch the team bring Olly to life and make an immersive game that allows players of all ages to compete against each other with a deceptively simple action like throwing fruit. With this release of the game, the team has worked incredibly hard and improved on every aspect of the game with more levels, more Olly, and more things that we will let the players find for themselves. I can’t wait for players to take it for a spin and, as Olly would say, Let’s Play!” — Evan Graham, Development Director at Waysun Inc.

Discover more new features, additional levels, upgraded gameplay, and expanded leaderboards with Olly Power Play – Available now in the AppLab

Waysun's entry into the world of VR Gaming

Waysun’s Entry Into the World of VR Gaming

Waysun's entry into the world of VR Gaming

Waysun Inc. Breaks into the World of VR with Olly Power Play

Due to an increase of consumer attention and fascination in VR gaming, Waysun Inc. has decided to weave its way into the ever-evolving industry with Olly Power Play: an innovative, target-based challenge for the Oculus.

Since the inception of the company in 2016, Waysun Inc. has established itself as a full-service media and games publisher for owned and licensed content distributed across mobile, PC, and TV platforms in the U.S. and global markets. They specialize in providing critical and effective services for developers in the industry to successfully launch and further capitalize on their games and other products.

Over the past few years, the growing interest in the VR community has created a high demand for games on devices such as the Oculus Quest 2.

Waysun’s Software Engineer Lead, David Schiff states, “VR is a very interesting platform that enables a host of different game design options that other platforms are simply unable to support. VR is becoming increasingly more popular, and until recently, it has been a very limited platform due to high headset costs. With Oculus Quest 2, VR has become much more accessible, so there is a much larger VR player base than there ever was.”

Waysun Inc. values innovation and excellence, therefore, it is no surprise that the company decided to venture out into the world of virtual reality with the release of Olly Power Play.

In this target-based experience, players will be introduced to the lovable Olly the ox and set off on a new adventure on his beautiful island.Olly the Ox - Olly Power Play

Regarding the game’s main character, Schiff also expresses that “Olly is what sets this game apart from others. He’s cute and adds a lot of personality to the game. He’s fun to interact with and makes every play through of the game feel like a unique experience”.

Within the stages of game development, every game starts out with a vision and inspiration for creation. Development Director, Evan Graham advises that the inspiration behind Olly Power Play was to “create a game that focuses on simple game mechanics, with cute characters, that is easy for anyone to play and compete.”

See what players are saying about Olly Power Play!

The innovative aspects of Olly Power Play surely enhance VR’s escalating potential in the gaming industry. This virtual reality experience highlights fun and exciting gameplay, along with immersive sounds and audio effects. Players will be able to compete with their family and friends over 50 dynamic levels to hit targets with various fruits, earn bonuses, and set a new high score alongside their new pal, Olly. With these simple, yet exciting game mechanics paired with a range of levels, Olly Power Play is easy for people of all ages to experience and is available in the app lab now.

Location

©Waysun Inc. All right reserved. Waysun, Waysun Inc., Waysun.com and the Waysun Inc logo are trademarks of Waysun, Inc. In the US, China, and/or other countries.

©Waysun Inc. All right reserved. Waysun, Waysun Inc., Waysun.com and the Waysun Inc logo are trademarks of Waysun, Inc. In the US, China, and/or other countries.

5 Virtual Reality Facts

5 Virtual Reality Facts you Need to Know

The world of virtual reality can be summed up into two simple words: ever-evolving. Due to recent innovation and technological advances, virtual and augmented reality has taken over and is here to stay for the long haul. Learn about 5 Virtual Reality Facts You Need to Know. 

The growing popularity of VR poses a question: “How much do I actually know about virtual reality?”

Fear not, we are here to get you up to speed! Grab your reading glasses and prepare to be enlightened. 

Here are five facts about virtual reality that will make you an industry expert in no time:

1. The first VR headset was created by Morton Heilig in the 1960’s and was originally named the ‘Telesphere Mask’ 

In 1962, American cinematographer Morton Heiling invented the ‘Telesphere Mask’. Otherwise known as the Sensorama. This device would come to be known as one of the first and earliest known examples of multi-sensory, immersive VR technology. Fact via ioi.London. 

As the Sensorama was quite advanced for its time, as it gave the player an experience of motorcycling throughout the streets of Brooklyn. Players were also given a satisfying VR experience. Due to feeling wind in their face, vibrations from the motorcycle seat, and an engaging 3D view of Brooklyn. (Are your minds blown yet? Ours surely are!)

2. VR was marketed around 5.1 million in 2017 and is expected to be worth around 20.9 million in 2025. 

This dramatic stat from Tech Jury shows this jump in revenue is likely caused by the constant technological advancements in the industry. Factors such as higher internet speeds, access to hardware, and an increase in willing consumers contribute to such innovation as well. Due to these figures, we can predict that the market for virtual and augmented reality will continue to skyrocket at a steady pace year after year. These are the statistics we love to see! Here at Waysun, we are excited to be a part of the VR market with our Meta Quest 2 game: Olly Power Play. 

3. The number of VR users in the U.S. has increased from 22.5 million in 2017 to 50.2 million in 2020

The always upgrading industry attracts more and more users every year. According to zippia.com, the VR market is projected to reach 65.9 million users by 2023. (That’s a lot of headsets!)

With this in mind, 99Firms also reported that 35% of these individuals that use VR are between 24 to 35 years old. We’re thrilled to see the industry continue to escalate, as more individuals become familiar with the world of virtual reality.

4. 91% of business organizations are already using or are planning to use VR.

Business organizations from all sectors have adapted VR technology in their workplace. Whether it is for training purposes, or just some office fun, virtual reality has surely weaved its way into the professional world.

Here’s another fun fact for you from Strivr.com:  VR training reduces the risk in the workplace by 43%. This accounts for safer work environments and happier employees. With this in mind, we have to ask: are you willing to incorporate virtual reality technology in your office?

5. VR technology can benefit mental health purposes.

Were you aware that VR has also made its way into healthcare? Forbes.com reported that virtual reality technology can be used to treat disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The user who undergoes such therapy is presented with “real-life” virtual experiences that help them with mental health concerns or ease chronic disorders.

Furthermore, virtual reality has also provided benefits to the learning process. As the technology has been known to improve and even speed up learning abilities in general! (At this point, is there anything VR can’t do?)

 

Due to these facts, it is evident that virtual reality is no stranger to technology. Its success will only continue to multiply and spread across different sectors. Now that you’re a VR expert, we can bet you’re ready to pick up a headset and explore all of the benefits it has to offer!

 

 

 

 

Waysun Inc. Breaks into the World of VR with Olly Power Play

With the growing interest in VR games, Waysun Inc. launches its first game on Oculus featuring a target-based contest designed to challenge players and their friends.

ORLANDO, FL – April 27, 2022 – Waysun Inc. is thrilled to announce the release of Olly Power Play, a new option for VR gamers to add to their growing libraries. Show off your pitching skills in this target-based experience alongside the adorable ox named Olly! Enjoy over 50 dynamic levels and compete against friends to see if you can snatch the highest score on the leaderboard. Available in the app lab now.

 

The increasing demand for new VR content is the perfect opportunity for Waysun to introduce the world to their loveable character Olly and his beautifully designed world. This new experience is set on an inviting island where players can compete to clear out targets, earn bonuses, and set their high scores alongside Olly. Featuring exciting gameplay and immersive sights and sounds, Olly Power Play highlights VR’s potential in the gaming industry.

“We see VR as an opportunity to enhance the player experience in a positive way, and at Waysun our mission is to do just that.” – Ryan DiSanto, Chief Operations Officer for Waysun Inc.

 

About Waysun Inc.

Waysun Inc. is a full-service media and games publisher for owned and licensed content distributed across, mobile, PC, and TV platforms in the U.S. and global markets. Waysun Inc. values innovation, excellence, integrity, teamwork, diversity, and a global presence. Founded in 2016, the company specializes in providing critical services for developers to successfully launch and capitalize on their products, and has worked with brands such as Tencent, Boss Bunny Games, and Lammtara. For more information, visit waysuninc.com or follow @waysuninc on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

What the Future of Mobile Gaming Might Look Like

Mobile gaming has been a part of mainstream culture since Tetris hit the very small screen in 1994 (bet you thought it was Snake in 1997). Fast forward 27 years and the landscape has evolved to include multi-player experiences, incredible graphics, and epic storylines. But, what’s next?

Here’s a list of 5 things experts expect for the future of mobile gaming.

1. Financially, mobile gaming is projected to grow.

$100 billion – that’s the revenue mobile gaming is set to reach by the end of 2021, according to Newzoo. The 2010’s were a double-digit decade of growth for the industry. With advances in tech and the saturation of iPhones (or Androids, we don’t judge), that number is likely to continue growing into the next decade.

2. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) will become increasingly common.

Remember back in 2016 when Oculus VR headsets were all the rage? Well, developers and engineers are continuously working on ways to bring that tech to our phones.

Features like Google AR and those flaw-erasing, super-popular Snapchat filters have made use of this tech already. Over time, experts expect people will become more accustomed to AR and VR, adding new elements to the mobile experience.

3. More devices will be designed with mobile gaming in mind.

Tech companies like Huawei, Asus, and Lenovo, both well-known for making computers, have released phones recommended for mobile gamers. Topping the list of features, they offer include faster refresh rates, gorgeous displays, and dual front-facing speakers.

As graphics and features continue to excel, the devices used to play will follow suit. Food for thought: If Apple made a phone for mobile gaming, would people buy it? Until then, check out TechRadar’s recommended gaming phones here.

4. 5G will make it easier to play in real-time.

One thing that’s created a community amongst console gamers throughout the years is the ability to team-up and play immersive games in real-time. With the emergence of 5G, mobile-first products will increasingly draw in players for this same reason.

Enjoy the camaraderie and instant action on the go? Get ready. Faster download speeds and stronger internet will create seamless playing experiences according to an article from the WSJ.

5. Cross-platform capabilities will continue to grow.

Whether a gamer’s primary console is a PlayStation or a Samsung, developers are making strides to connect them all. Fortnite now allows players from all platforms to compete in its free-to-play battle royale game.

The industry expects to see other companies expanding their cross-platform capabilities to attract new players and reach new markets.

We want to know: what are you looking forward to most? The surge of 5G networks, cross-platform expansion, or the potential for holograms? With the mobile gaming industry on the up-and-up, it’ll be interesting to see what we’re doing with our phones in another 27 years.

4 Mobile Gaming Accessories That Will Amp Up Your Gaming Experience

August 31, 2021

POV: It’s 1998, and you’re playing Snake on a dimly lit Nokia. You’re having the best time and are wondering if it gets any better than this.

We’re here to tell you: It does! Innovation has snuck its way into the world of mobile gaming yet again. Developers are now coming up with new and improved gadgets and accessories that will take your gaming session to a whole new level!

Here are four accessories that will spice up your gaming experience:

1. The Razer Kishi Controller 

We’ve got one word for this device: innovative. The Razer Kishi controller grabs onto both sides of your phone for a more natural gaming experience.

The controller is designed ergonomically with console controls, (think of a mix between a Nintendo Switch and an Xbox controller… pretty cool, right?)  giving you all the comfort you need to bring your A-game and win!

Since it connects via your mobile charging port, the Razer Kishi controller charges your phone as you play (A win-win situation).  This gadget is also compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, so you don’t have to worry about it not working with your phone.

Now that we’ve put you onto this super cool controller…what will you play first?

2. XO Touch Screen Game Controller Finger Sleeves

Long gone are the days of fogging up your phone screen with fingerprints and sweat… finger sleeves are here to save the day!

These non-slip finger and thumb sleeves are perfect for an all-night gaming session, keeping your screen clean and your head in the game.

Have no fear, these ultra lightweight sleeves are super breathable and stretchy, allowing you to be comfortable as you play the night away.

3. SteelSeries Stratus Duo Wireless Gaming Controller

You can kiss finger cramps and tapping on a mobile screen goodbye, the SteelSeries Stratus Duo controller is here to change the game! (pun intended)

Unlike the Razer Kishi controller, the SteelSeries Stratus Duo brings Android users back to a more traditional gaming experience that mirrors console gaming controllers.

This device allows you to win all your games with precise joysticks, responsive triggers, and minimal to no lag. The gadget connects to your phone via Bluetooth, making it easy for you to game on the go.

The SteelSeries Stratus Duo is also Steam-enabled. You can now easily play more than 5000 controller-enabled Steam games, with no additional software needed.

4. UGREEN HiTune T2 Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds

As you know, sound and music are an integral part of your gaming experience. It’s time to juice up your mobile game sound with the UGREEN HiTune T2 Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds. 

These earbuds were created with mobile gaming in mind. The accessory contains a gaming mode to take your audio to the next level, with its 20 hour battery life and 60ms ultra-low latency sound.

The T2s connect to your phone via bluetooth and are a perfect fit for hours of nonstop mobile gaming. Like the Razer Kishi controller, they are also compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.

We are thrilled to see the mobile gaming industry step up its game and incorporate all of these amazing new accessories that enhance your gaming experience. Tell us, gamers: which of these devices will you most likely add to your wishlist?

4 Mobile Gaming Genres You Need To Know About

August 4, 2021

Just like books and movies, games have genres, too. If you’re an industry professional, understanding the top genres can be helpful in business. And, if you’re just an enthusiastic gamer, you might need this information for trivia eventually — you never know.

Here are four super-popular mobile gaming genres for Android users, according to Statista.

Casual

Flappy Bird, Super Nano Jumper, and Comic Boy are all considered casual games. So what makes a game… casual?

Well, typically these games have a lighter learning curve. They also don’t demand a lot of time from the player, meaning sessions are shorter.

Additionally, casual games are generally designed to appeal to a mass audience. It’s worth noting that plenty of mobile games are technically considered casual even if they fit into another genre. According to an article by Udonis, Casual games make up 78% of mobile game downloads.

Puzzle

You might have guessed already, but Puzzle games are notoriously popular on both the Google and Apple App Stores. Drop Four, Color Maze, and Tetris are just a few fun and challenging puzzle games we love. Depending on who you ask, Candy Crush and Bejeweled are also considered puzzle games, but a more specific type, called a Match 3.

Simulation

Simulation games are characterized by their similarity to real life. Most often, these games replicate the feeling of real-life events, like the famous Sims game we all know and love. Other common themes include caring for a pet, interior designing, hunting, or flying an airplane.

Did you know simulation-style games are used for training purposes, too? Imagine playing a version of “The Office” to prepare for the dynamics of working 9-5.

Runner

Runners are those fun games you stand over your friends shoulder to watch. Subway Surfers and Temple Run are the two most notable runner games to date. One of the best things about runner games is that there are seemingly no limits to how far you can go.

If you have reached the end of one of these though, please tell us what happens.

Which of these genres do you find yourself playing most?

5 Things to Know About Mobile Gaming

July 7, 2021

If you’ve been on the internet lately (we know you have) you’ve probably read that the mobile gaming industry is on the rise. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned vet, there’s always more to know about the fast-paced world of gaming.

We asked our team, “what’s one thing you think everyone should know about mobile games and development?” After the expected, “I can’t pick just one,” here’s what they said.

1. “There is a game for everyone”

David, our Software Engineer Lead said, “There are games for everyone. Even if you don’t consider yourself a gamer, there is a game for you.” Whether you love solving puzzles, interior designing or crave to solve puzzles through interior design, your app store likely has the solution.

Key takeaway: You’re probably a gamer… you just don’t know it yet. 

2. “Mobile gaming is the future”

In 2018, mobile gaming generated 50% of global gaming revenue according to Newzoo. From a business perspective, jumping in the mobile gaming arena might be a wise decision. Even Netflix has thrown its hat in the ring, recently announcing it will begin dabbling in gaming. Allen, our Business Strategist, noted the mobile gaming industry has enormous growth potential.

You might be curious why mobile is growing so rapidly. We can attribute it, in part, to this stat: currently 67% of the world’s population has a mobile phone. This allows for mobile gaming to flourish since most players already have all the tools they need. No extra hardware needed for beginners to join in the fun.

Key takeaway: Mobile gaming is everywhere – and likely isn’t going away anytime soon.

3. “Developing a mobile game is a lot of work”

While you’re playing that mobile game you always turn to when you’re waiting, you probably don’t consider how much time went into making it – and that’s fair. We get it.

However, our Backend Developer Tim, said, “There can be thousands of hours of work that goes into the smallest part of a game.” Crafting a simple user experience is actually very complex. According to 3sidedcube, general app development takes an average of 9 months – the same amount of time it takes to have a child.

Key takeaway: Making a mobile game requires a lot of time and resources.

4. “Nobody works in a silo”

“From art to tech, all parts of game development require constant communication,” says our PM Ashlie. In order to create a cohesive experience for the player, everyone needs to be on the same page during development.

Fast changes and new builds require everyone to be in the loop. Not to mention, most developers and creatives have more than one talent that contributes to the end result of a game, so open communication is important to create the best experience for the player.

Key takeaway: Communication and collaboration makes the dream work.

5. “Planning takes a lot of time”

You’ve likely heard that failure to plan is planning to fail. Not only do you have to plan when you’ll execute your design and development, you also have to plan time to, well, plan.

Adam, our Project Coordinator, says, “Planning takes a lot of time. You have to make short term plans – from days to weeks – and long-term plans – extending to years in the future. You also have to plan for roadblocks and be able to have time allotted to course correct if a build breaks.”

Key takeaway: Have a plan but be able to adjust accordingly.

Mobile games are more accessible, social, and entertaining than ever before. Whether you make mobile games or play them, we want to know. What’s one thing everyone should know about mobile gaming?

3 Events We’re Excited for at GDC 2021

July 20, 2021

Get ready gamers: The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is back and better than ever. From its humble beginnings as a chat on Chris Crawford’s couch, to a now widely anticipated global event, we’re ready for the roundtables and panels all about gaming.

As a company with a passion for inspirational mobile gaming, we’re pumped for GDC 2021.

Our Marketing Coordinator Hannah says, “I’m looking forward to hearing from experts on the future of mobile gaming! It’s always exciting to hear about new innovations in tech. It will also be cool to learn new strategies for marketing games.”

With this in mind, here are three things that have us super excited for the 2021 conference:

1.  Playtika’s Secret Sauce for Successful Mobile Game Growth  

Creating an engaging game that keeps players coming back for more is not always the easiest task. Luckily, Playtika is going to be diving into this topic on Tuesday, July 20th. The company’s head of Boost Platform, Amir Yagil, will be providing his secret recipe for successful mobile game growth. Also up for discussion – how the company managed to develop 9 of the top 100 highest grossing mobile games in the US.

A discussion about the best monetization, data analysis, and marketing strategies for mobile games and how to unify these factors to leave gamers wanting more is on the agenda. We can’t wait to see what strategies Mr. Yagil will be sharing with developers everywhere!

 2.  The Future of AAA and Mobile Gaming

Over the past year, the mobile gaming industry has flourished. Due to this recent success, one might wonder: can mobile games ever be AAA? With new futuristic and innovative technology, we believe it’s possible.

Our Software Engineer Lead, David believes that “mobile gaming can already be classified as AAA with games such as Call of Duty: Mobile and Minecraft for mobile devices, since they were created by major publishers.”

Imagination Technologies along with Game Dev London will be hosting a panel to discuss the future of mobile gaming and if it’s possible to nudge the industry into an AAA direction.

You won’t want to miss this. Attendees will receive insights from experts in the gaming industry. They’ll also learn about the differences between mobile, PC, and console game development and how the traditional sense of AAA games pertains to the future of the mobile industry.

 3.  The 21st Annual Game Developers Choice Awards

Brace yourselves: The 21st annual Game Developers Choice Awards are coming! The event awards the best in the industry for their creativity, innovation, and artistry. The Game Developers Choice Awards were introduced 20 years ago in March 2001. Year after year, it continues to recognize the outstanding work of gaming professionals from around the world.

The two types of awards presented are the Special Awards and Main Category Awards. The Special Awards consist of the Lifetime Achievement, Pioneer, and Ambassador awards.

Main Category Awards consist of Game of the Year, Innovation, Best Debut, Best Audio, Best Design, Best Technology, Best Visual Art, Best Narrative, Best Mobile Game, and Best VR/AR Game.

This year’s award ceremony will happen on Wednesday, July 21st. Did you know the first Mobile Game Award was presented in 2007 to The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass? The latest game to win the award was in 2019 to the single-player iOS game “What the Golf?”.

Gamers, it’s your turn! We want to know which category you’re excited for and which game you would like to see take home the win. It’s an inspiring time to be passionate about the gaming industry, and it’s wonderful to see the efforts of talented gaming professionals being recognized.

Final Thoughts

GDC is an amazing event for anyone in the gaming industry. We can’t wait to see everything the conference will have to offer this year!

What has us at the edge of our seats? The future of mobile gaming and how the rising success of the industry will define upcoming mobile game trends. What excites you most about GDC 2021?