Strategically Communicating

© 2017 Lenovo. © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd

Well, folks, it looks like the wait is finally over. November 3rd, 2017 marked the release of Disney and Lenovo’s Jedi Challenges augmented reality headset. Priced at $199, this device is far more affordable than the late Oculus Rift ($599) or the Sony PlayStation VR ($399). Jam packed with over 12-hours of gameplay across six planets and three experiences–Lightsaber Battles, Strategic Combat and Holochess–users will find themselves engaged in fantasy replicating Lightsaber battles with the likes of Darth Vader, Kylo Red, the Grand Inquisitor and other surprise villains.

Star Wars will always hold a special place in my heart, and I hope to one day sample this headset. Even so, the continuing development of the virtual world leaves me with questions about its implications on humanity. Some educational settings employ the use of VR for open-heart surgery simulations so that students can operate on subjects risk free. I wonder though, if by using the aforementioned simulations, we run the risk of under-preparing future doctors, scientists and the like for truly associating their subjects with humanity as their practice crosses over from virtual to reality.