‘Job Simulator’ and ‘Demeo’ to Pioneer Android XR Support Before Samsung Headset Debut

Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games recently revealed exciting news—they’re expanding their reach by embracing Google’s new Android XR operating system. This move will bring some of their standout titles to the platform, marking a fresh chapter for both developers and gamers.

The much-anticipated Android XR will first feature on Samsung’s ‘Project Moohan’ mixed reality headset, expected to hit the consumer market in 2025. Unlike its predecessor, Daydream, this is a fully-fledged Android version tailored specifically for XR headsets, catering to both traditional Android apps and cutting-edge XR experiences.

Both Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games are seasoned veterans in the XR industry, and it’s no surprise they’re jumping in early, leveraging their established reputation for supporting major VR platforms. Their readiness to be pioneers in this expanded realm is a move we’ve come to expect.

On separate occasions, the studios announced their plans: Owlchemy Labs will bring its beloved VR classics Job Simulator and Vacation Simulator to Android XR, while Resolution Games will introduce Demeo.

Samsung is keenly spotlighting Project Moohan’s advanced hand and eye-tracking features, offering something akin to Apple’s Vision Pro. Yet, it also borrows from Quest’s playbook, featuring proprietary motion controllers and PC VR streaming, effectively blending the best of both worlds.

Since Owlchemy Labs and Resolution Games have already adapted their games for Vision Pro with hand and eye-tracking capabilities, transitioning to Android XR seems fairly straightforward. This is largely thanks to Unity’s robust support for Android XR from day one, along with the inclusion of the OpenXR software standard.

Owlchemy Labs expressed enthusiasm about developing for Android XR in their press release, highlighting the ease of creating immersive experiences that span a variety of XR devices. They noted the platform’s excellent integration with the Unity engine, which eliminated the need for third-party library integrations, simplifying the process of porting their Unity-based games to the XR realm.

Resolution Games shared a similar sentiment, with their CTO Johan Gästrin acknowledging Google’s commitment to social experiences in the XR space, describing it as a meaningful advancement.

These titles provide an easy gateway into XR for enthusiasts and beginners alike. Whether it’s the quirky adventures of Job Simulator or the engaging, cross-platform multiplayer fun in Demeo, there’s a lot to explore. However, the industry remains watchful; it’s unclear if other XR developers will be as quick to join the Android XR bandwagon. A key factor will be how well Project Moohan performs, with many waiting on the price, detailed specifications, and precise release date to be unveiled.