Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has expanded the metaverse Horizon Worlds from virtual reality headsets to mobile devices and computers. In a recent blog post, the 3D avatar-based social platform announced the early access rollout of its first Meta Horizon world to mobile and web platforms.
The initial experience available is called Super Rumble, a free-for-all shooter that was previously only accessible on VR devices. Super Rumble allows two to six players to engage in fast-paced matches lasting five minutes. Meta plans to introduce more experiences and worlds to the platform in the coming months.
Initially, only a limited number of users can access Horizon Worlds on the web or through the Meta Quest app on Android, with an iOS rollout planned for the near future. Meta intends to gradually expand the early access as it collects feedback and improves the experience.
Meta Brings Horizon Worlds to Non-VR Platforms, Starting with Super Rumble Game
Meta emphasizes its commitment to making the metaverse accessible to everyone, regardless of their device. While Quest headsets offer an immersive metaverse experience, Meta believes there should be multiple entry points to the metaverse.
Notably, blockchain-based metaverse platforms like Decentraland and The Sandbox initially launched as PC and web-based experiences before venturing into virtual reality. Decentraland introduced its browser-based 3D virtual world in February 2020, while The Sandbox launched its Alpha on PC in November 2021, but neither has released an official virtual reality version yet.
In addition to the platform expansion, Meta’s Horizon Worlds avatars have received an update that adds virtual legs. Previously, the avatars lacked legs, drawing criticism from users. During Connect 2022, Meta had promised that virtual legs would be added in an update in 2023, and now it appears this update has arrived in the Horizon Worlds app.