Vive Can Now Run Oculus Rift Virtual Reality Exclusives via Third-Party Program

[RoadWarrior]

There are two major virtual reality devices on the market at the moment for the PC, and one of the biggest problems is that both have exclusive releases that cannot be experienced on the rival device, despite the fact that both could use an expansion to their library.

Now a programmer is showing a way to use proprietary software that he has created to run video games that are exclusive to the Oculus Rift on the Vive device.

CrossVr is the nickname of the developer, and so far, he has managed to get both Lucky’s Tale and Oculus Dreamdeck working using his solution, although he says that, for the moment, he needs to use an Xbox One controller for both.

He explains on the GitHub page for his cross-compatibility virtual reality solution that, "It works by reimplementing functions from the Oculus Runtime and translating them to OpenVR calls. Unfortunately, Oculus has implemented a Code Signing check on the Runtime DLLs, therefore the Revive DLLs cannot be used unless the application is patched."

All those interested in trying out the VR solution that allows for Oculus Rift content to run on the Vive can go to the site and follow the steps, which are not too complicated. In the coming weeks, the solution will get support for more titles, new features, and support for OpenGL and DirectX 12.

The PlayStation 4 is coming later in the year

Neither of the two virtual reality companies has issued a statement about the Revive concept, but they might try to shut down the program because it eliminates one of the competitive advantages of their platforms, the fact that they have exclusive titles.

So far, neither the Oculus Rift nor the Vive is in the hands of too many users, and both companies have been having trouble shipping all the devices that have been pre-ordered by enthusiasts before launch.

At some point in the future, both the devices will be able to run each other's experiences as their developers become aware of the fact that a solid install base for virtual reality is an advantage for both.

Sony is planning to launch its own PlayStation VR solution in October of this year, and it will only be compatible with the PlayStation 4 home console.

It is unclear whether a simple program or patch can be used to make PS VR titles run on the Vive or the Oculus Rift.