Microsoft Hololens release date: Augmented reality headset shown off in mixed reality game

Microsoft Hololens [photo: YouTube Screen Capture/MS Hololens]

Microsoft provides a demo glimpse on how cool the Microsoft Hololens will be, showing it off recently at a demo using an experimental game called "Project X-Ray."

The demo provided an extensive glimpse of things to come, including a wearable hologram that turned the demo area into a virtual gaming setup.

In the said demo, the hologram weapon was used to fight off aliens and robots, seeing the player defend himself and shoot down his adversaries at the same time.

Aside from the actual gameplay, it seems that whichever setting it may eventually be used in is equally exciting to watch out for. The device has the ability to recognize walls and objects around it, accounting for unique game settings and game tactics for attacking players.

From a glance, it seems to be a whole new rebirth of the famed virtual reality that many are familiar with. As far as Microsoft is concerned, the whole thing is mixed reality, which technically accounts for the fact that player can interact and use his surroundings in particular ways that account for a mix of virtual and real life settings.

Such opens tons of possibilities, particularly for first-shooter games like "Halo" and/or "Minecraft." To date, however, all these are still in the experimental stages.

The Microsoft Hololens are reportedly set to be offered across the United States and Canada starting Oct. 13. Such include Seattle, Salt Lake City, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York City, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Atlanta, Austin, and Toronto. 

The headsets are, however, not limited to the gaming sector. They will equally be offered for business and entertainment, which could eventually come out next.

"HoloLens is fully untethered: No wires, no phones, no connection to a PC required," said Terry Myerson, Microsoft's executive vice president of the Windows and Devices Group, who believes that the price is worth it.

For those interested in the Microsoft Hololens, sign ups have already begun via Microsoft's website. The headset will be sold on an invite-only basis.

Check out the demo below.

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