Unleashing the Sensory Adventure: Assassin's Creed Nexus Introduces Virtual Senses

Assassin's Creed Nexus offers players a virtual nose, which helps with VR motion issues even though it may not be visible. This game marks the first entry in the Assassin's Creed series to be released on a VR platform. Players will have the opportunity to experience the memories of Ezio Auditore, Connor Kenway, and Kassandra. Unlike a traditional corridor game, Assassin's Creed Nexus features an open map, allowing players to engage in parkour, interact with non-player characters, and combat enemies through assassination or combat.

This venture into the world of VR is an exciting development for the Assassin's Creed franchise. Since its inception in 2007, the game has evolved from its core formula, encompassing side-scrolling spin-offs, action-adventure games, and action RPGs. VR presents a completely new way to experience Assassin's Creed, as it is immersive, motion-intensive, and played from a first-person perspective. Recognizing the importance of providing a realistic experience, Ubisoft decided to include a virtual nose for players. Recently, our website interviewed Olivier Palmieri, the director of Assassin's Creed Nexus, discussing various aspects of the upcoming game, including the implementation of the virtual nose.

The purpose of the nose in VR is to provide a focal point for the brain, aiding in easier motion and reducing potential discomfort. Similar to a real nose, it is not constantly noticeable unless intentionally looked for. Palmieri humorously mentions how others don't notice it unless pointed out. The presence of fixed references, such as the nose, helps alleviate motion sickness experienced in older games like Doom. In Assassin's Creed Nexus, along with other comfort VR settings, these fixed references contribute to reducing potential discomfort for players. When wearing a VR headset, the nose acts as a visual element for the brain to latch onto, providing a sense of stability amidst the immersive experience. Despite being mostly hidden due to the headset, the absence of a visible nose is a unique adjustment for the brain in the VR environment.

While not claiming it as definitive science, Palmieri does acknowledge the numerous tests conducted to validate its inclusion. Additionally, as early as 2014, Ubisoft ventured into crafting a virtual nose and successfully developed several prototypes illustrating its functionality. "By giving the brain a point of reference on the screen, it appears to contribute to a sense of stability," Palmieri explained. He further drew a parallel to the cockpit effect, where the fixed reference point of a cockpit enhances the cognitive experience in space or plane games.

In Assassin's Creed, a cockpit was not possible, but a virtual nose serves as an alternative.

Assassin's Creed Nexus allows players to fully immerse themselves by observing their character's attire, including the torso, legs, and feet. When assuming the role of Ezio in Venice, players will notice the presence of Throwing Knives on their chest, a sword on their hilt, and a crossbow on their back. By paying attention, players may even catch a glimpse of their newly crafted nose in the VR experience.

Assassin's Creed Nexus releases November 16 on Meta Quest devices.