The VR classic game Darknet, created by E McNeill, has been re-released as Darknet: Remastered for Quest headsets. Originally launched on October 6, 2014, Darknet was the first full game to debut on the Samsung Gear VR, which was a major milestone in the world of consumer VR headsets. Over the next three years, the game expanded its availability to various platforms including the Oculus Rift Store, PlayStation VR, Steam, and Google Daydream, showcasing its early adoption of cross-platform VR technology.
In Darknet, players take on the role of an elite hacker in cyberspace, utilizing viruses, worms, and exploits to steal data before getting traced. Drawing inspiration from iconic works such as TRON, Neuromancer, The Matrix, and Johnny Mnemonic, the game won a VR Jam competition back in 2013. The gameplay experience, described as a strategy/puzzle game, immerses players in a futuristic hacker environment where they must strategically navigate and manipulate virtual nodes.
Upon trying out Darknet: Remastered on the Quest headset, it was found to retain its original charm and gameplay mechanics. McNeill’s innovative approach to VR gaming, particularly in a seated, swivel chair setup, was a memorable introduction to many early VR adopters through the Gear VR Innovator Edition. Even now, with more advanced VR headsets available, the game still evokes nostalgia for the unique experience it offered in the realm of virtual hacking.
Following the success of Darknet, McNeill went on to develop other notable VR projects such as Tactera, Skylight, Astraeus, Ironlights, and Ironstrike, further establishing his reputation as a talented VR developer. More information about these projects can be found on McNeill’s website.
Darknet: Remastered is currently priced at $9.99 and is available for purchase, offering players the opportunity to revisit or experience for the first time the engaging world of virtual hacking. With its original release marking a significant moment in VR gaming history, the remastered version continues to captivate audiences with its immersive gameplay and futuristic themes.