I spent an hour in the Virtuix Omni One full-body VR rig — here's what it feels like

I have strapped into a version of our full-body virtual reality future, and it takes some getting used to.

Virtuix has introduced the Omni One, a cutting-edge VR gaming platform priced at $2,595, which includes a 360-degree walking treadmill, an articulated support arm, and a VR headset. The support arm extends from the treadmill to a vest and belt that users strap into, allowing them to walk, run, crouch, and jump in virtual reality—without the risk of damaging their living rooms.

The Omni One marks a significant milestone for Virtuix, which has been developing full-body VR systems since its first Kickstarter campaign for the original Omni back in 2013. The Omni One is an advanced version of the original, designed specifically for home use. Despite the high price point, Virtuix hopes to attract enough buyers to build a robust ecosystem for its proprietary VR gaming platform. For those concerned about the cost, a monthly payment plan is also available.

Exclusive Platform with Proprietary Content

Unlike competitors such as the Meta Quest 3, the Omni One runs on its own platform. While it can be connected to a PC for use with Steam VR games, it’s optimized for games available on the Omni One store. Virtuix claims that over 50 games will be available at launch, including multiplayer titles specifically designed to take advantage of the Omni One's full-body movement capabilities.

However, the key question remains: Will the games available at launch be compelling enough to justify the nearly $3,000 investment? During a demo, I had the opportunity to try just one multiplayer game—a co-op zombie survival shooter. Despite some initial awkwardness on the treadmill, the experience was enjoyable, though I found myself struggling to maintain my balance, likening the experience to "slipping and sliding across the Omni One’s treadmill like a newborn calf." Fortunately, the difficulty was adjusted to make the experience more manageable, and I was able to complete the match without any major mishaps.

A Steep Learning Curve

The Omni One offers a unique VR experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Company founder Jan Goetgeluk demonstrated how to put on the special shoe wraps and strap on the vest, making the treadmill appear deceptively easy to use. However, my own experience was far more challenging. The treadmill, which feels like a large concave plastic disc, requires a learning curve—especially when it comes to walking backward or running. As someone standing 6’4” and close to the upper limit of the device’s height and weight capacity, I found the experience awkward and, at times, a bit precarious.

One of my main concerns after using the Omni One for an hour is the potential for injury. With its size limitations and the physical demands of the treadmill, I can see how smaller or younger users might have a better experience, but for taller individuals, it could pose some risks.

Looking Ahead

While my initial experience with the Omni One didn’t leave me completely sold, it did spark my curiosity. The potential for new and innovative VR experiences is vast, and I’m eager to see how developers might leverage this technology. However, I’m hesitant to invest in the Omni One until I see what software becomes available and how the community around it develops.

The fact that Virtuix has refined the Omni One to the point where it can be easily shipped, assembled without tools, and transported on built-in wheels is impressive. Now, it just needs a strong lineup of games and a vibrant user base to truly succeed.

Source - https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/vr-ar/i-spent-an-hour-in-the-virtuix-omni-one-full-body-vr-suit-heres-what-it-feels-like