Since the early 1900s, entertainers have tried to bring viewers’ olfactory sense into things like movies, TV, and video games. Now, GameScent promises its AI-powered device will release “real-time scents” during gameplay. The device is compatible with all consoles, PC, VR, and streaming platforms, so no gamer is left out.
How it Works
GameScent’s advanced AI captures audio from whatever game you are playing and analyzes it in real time. It then uses that data to determine and release the most fitting scent for each scene. The device essentially functions like your normal household diffuser, just cranked to 11. GameScent uses cartridges to unleash each smell during the appropriate scene, including a “clean air” setting that wipes out all the odors it emits during gameplay.
Events/locations that can trigger scents are gunfire, explosion, racing, clean air, ocean, and forest. All six of these are included in the current model. Scents like ocean, napalm, fresh-cut grass, human exertion, blood, and big city will be coming in the future. Once the cartridges are spent you can buy refills directly from the company’s website.
“Studies have shown that the sense of smell imprints in long-term memory more strongly than anything else,” said Casey Bunce, GameScent president. “With GameScent, we’re hoping to elevate gamers’ experiences to be more exciting and memorable than they ever have been before.”
There is no evidence that a fully immersive experience will make you a better gamer, but it certainly adds to the authenticity of the experience. Between this device and omnidirectional treadmills, holodecks don’t seem like such a distant reality.
Where to Get One
A GameScent including the six available smells normally goes for $179.99, but it’s currently on sale for $149.99, here. You can check out the product trailer below:
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