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Teh wearable sandal-like controller named GO-OZ allows users to walk and move around VR games without any buttons or control sticks. Instead of using a handheld controller, the device relies on people’s legs and feet, as the system digitally tracks natural steps and translates them into movement inside the virtual world and game.
Most of the VR games today need handheld controllers before the users can fully play them since the movement is simulated using the buttons and thumbsticks. GO-OZ tries to bridge this gap by allowing the players to directly use their feet and legs and give them the sensation that they’re walking and moving around what they’re playing. The wearable VR controller GO-OZ heads to Tokyo, Japan, for the Tokyo Game Show 2025, were visitors can try on the prototype on-site between September 25th and 28th.
all images courtesy of GO-OZ
Foot-worn device with adjustable straps
The wearable VR controller GO-OZ can adapt to any feet size, even while the players are wearing their shoes, because of the adjustable straps. The foam-like and soft bottom part is chunky and curvy to allow the users to tilt forward and backward. This area also houses the sensors of the device, which measure foot pressure, step length, and rhythm. They also detect when the wearer lifts a foot, shifts weight, or pushes forward. The device is linked to VR software through a wireless connection or cable, depending on the setup. Once connected,every natural step is translated into forward,backward,or sideways movement inside the VR world.
During the prototype debut at the Tokyo Game Show 2025, attendees are seen to put on the wearable VR controller GO-OZ and tilt themselves forward to walk and backward to reverse. So far, the system uses the sensors more around the feet to detect the movement, so players don’t need to actually walk around. They can stay in place and just lean depending on where the player is heading in the VR game. At the present time, there’s only a prototype available for the wearable VR controller GO-OZ, and the design team has yet to announce its commercial and potential availability. When this happens, it may be possible that they upgrade the design, which can allow the players to physically walk around a designated space instead of just tilting.
GO-OZ: Sandals enabling Natural Movement in VR Gaming
These innovative sandals, dubbed GO-OZ, are designed to bridge the gap between the physical and virtual worlds, allowing users to naturally walk and move around within VR games and experiences. Developed by GO-OZ in partnership with Altair4 Multimedia, the chunky sandals feature adjustable straps and aim to provide a more immersive and intuitive VR experience by translating real-world locomotion into the virtual environment.
!GO-OZ Sandals in Use
A user playing a VR game while wearing the GO-OZ foot-worn device.
Addressing the VR Locomotion Problem
Virtual Reality offers astonishing immersive potential, but one persistent challenge has been natural locomotion. Traditional VR setups often rely on controllers or limited tracking spaces, forcing users to use artificial movement methods like teleportation or joystick control. These methods can break immersion and even cause motion sickness. GO-OZ tackles this problem by allowing users to physically walk within the VR space, translating their steps into corresponding movements within the game.
How GO-OZ Works
While specific technical details are still emerging, the GO-OZ sandals appear to utilize a combination of sensors and adjustable straps to track foot movement. The chunky design likely houses the necessary technology,including potentially inertial measurement units (IMUs) and pressure sensors,to accurately capture walking data. The adjustable straps are crucial for ensuring a secure and cozy fit, allowing for a wider range of foot sizes and movement styles.
The system then transmits this movement data to the VR headset and game, enabling the user’s avatar to move in sync with their physical steps. This creates a more natural and intuitive VR experience, potentially reducing motion sickness and increasing immersion.
Project Details
* Name: GO-OZ
* Partners: Altair4 Multimedia and @altair4_multimedia
Potential Applications & future Implications
Beyond gaming, the GO-OZ sandals have potential applications in various fields:
* VR Fitness: The sandals could enhance VR fitness applications, making workouts more engaging and effective.
* Training & Simulation: realistic locomotion is crucial for training simulations in fields like medicine, military, and emergency response.
* Accessibility: For individuals with limited mobility, the GO-OZ sandals could offer a new way to experience virtual environments.
* Metaverse Exploration: As the metaverse evolves, natural locomotion will be essential for seamless exploration and interaction.
the advancement of GO-OZ represents a significant step towards more immersive and natural VR experiences. As VR technology continues to advance, solutions like these will be crucial for unlocking the full potential of the metaverse and creating truly believable virtual worlds.
Key Takeaways:
* GO-OZ sandals allow users to physically walk in VR,translating real-world movement into the virtual environment.
* The sandals aim to address the limitations of traditional VR locomotion methods like teleportation and joystick control.
* Potential applications extend beyond gaming to include fitness, training, accessibility, and metaverse exploration.
* The project is a collaboration between GO-OZ and Altair4 Multimedia.