The last VR game PikPok released was the unexpected Rival Stars Horse Racing: VR Edition. But the studio is also known for another franchise, Into the Dead, and it’s this zombie survival series that’s next to grace VR devices. Called Into The Dead: Crimson Heights, it’s set to hit Meta Quest and SteamVR in 2027.
Into The Dead: Crimson Heights
While the most recent incarnation of Into the Dead for flatscreen is a side-scrolling survival adventure, Into The Dead: Crimson Heights is a slightly different beast. Leaning into the survival horror aspect a lot more, the game is set in a confined apartment building during the first hours of the Walton City zombie outbreak.
The most interesting part of the announcement comes from the ‘Hyper Reality’ technology PikPok is using for the Meta Quest version to ground players in the experience.
“At PikPok, we are constantly looking at fun and engaging ways to provide new and unique gaming experiences. So with that very much in mind, we are excited to finally reveal Into the Dead: Crimson Heights, which combines tense stealth, tactical exploration and thrilling combat in a unique, body-driven experience,” said Mario Wynands, CEO at PikPok, in a statement.
What is Hyper Reality?
Traditionally, when discussing Hyper Reality and VR, it would be within the realms of location-based entertainment (LBE). Companies like The Void used additional technologies, including haptic vests, wind machines, heat and physical objects to make their VR experience seem more real.
In the case of PikPok and Into the Dead: Crimson Heights, its ‘Hyper Reality’ technology utilises Meta Quest’s ability to scan a room to include both walls and physical furniture in the game. So while you’re confined to the apartment building, a room can feature your sofa and TV in their exact locations. And the same goes for doors and other features. Combined with roomscale gameplay, that means you could take cover and hide behind your own stuff.
The studio does note, however, that this Hyper Reality feature is exclusive to the Quest. The SteamVR version will be a normal VR game.
Launch Details
Currently, PikPok is aiming to release the Meta Quest and SteamVR editions in 2027. Although there’s no indication just yet as to whether it’ll be early or late 2027, or if it’ll be a simultaneous launch.
Does Into the Dead: Crimson Heights look like an interesting game? Let us know your impressions in the comments.
