Vermaxx, on 25 August 2012 - 07:44 AM, said:
A mechpod is a cool idea for a better game. MWO is a streamlined online shooter. There was a group building pods and highly complex 'simulation' software for Battletech (I think they went out of business).
I can't argue that it is COOL, if I had room and money to burn I might do it, but its kinda useless for anything not Mechwarrior with the POSSIBLE EXCEPTION being other sim games: flight or tank or maaaybe naval. Yeah, you could keep a mouse and keyboard in the pod for playing SC2 or MW3, but when it comes down to it, you are playing on a giant tv no more than a foot away from you, which is not really great viewing for something that isn't a cockpit.
If you want the total immersion then I can't fight you. If you are just looking for some immersion, get the Logitech chair and control system that will be better than the namebrand thing coming out for 'this game.' Put that in a box with a tv on the wall.
I think the mechpod's I've seen currently are more focused on Simulating a mech - My MECHpod as I call it - is more of a gaming pod - that specifically will be built because I want the Enclosed immersion factor - it will be just as good for all other games. Nice place to dip in and get "away" from sights sounds or other distractions if you will. Plus being retired, and sitting at home while others work, gotta have a hobby =P.
@Original Steelwolf - The design is very early - and the PC is being housed externally from the main pit. Additionally while not shown on the diagram the Monitor is going to be "sealed" off from rest of the cabinet with small whisper fans exhausting the air back out the front. Environmental's will NOT be an issue, and again this is preliminary design, that is going to change a lot as time gets closer to construction. I'm already anticipating heat and how to manage it...I'll just put in more heat sinks and group my weapons accordingly =P but seriously, The plan is to use LE lighting strips or LED lighting. The largest heat source will be the Television, and ME.
Sitting will be at about 2 1/2 to 3 foot from the monitor as I do now on my current computer desk. Again the diagram doesn't adequately show this due to the chair stand in being completely invented with no real world diagrams used. It'll be cool, and COOOL when it's done.
-Steel
PS - Thanks for the comments everyone! I do like the debate! -
PSS - Gunmutt - Go eat some LRM's for lunch!