An engineer has built an immersive first-person shooter rig featuring pyrotechnics that fire at the player, environmental effects, and targeted electrical zaps synchronized to in-game damage.
When most gamers talk about immersion, they mean high-resolution displays or surround sound. One engineer has redefined the concept by building a first-person shooter simulator that physically interacts with the player using pyrotechnics, environmental effects, and electrical impulses. The system, demonstrated in a viral social media video, synchronizes real-world physical feedback with in-game events.
The core setup features firework launchers positioned around the monitor that discharge pyrotechnics toward the player when their character is shot in-game. Players wear protective gear including a full-face helmet and fire-resistant jacket for safety. Beyond the explosive elements, the rig includes a recoil system that simulates weapon kickback and environmental modules that produce rain and wind effects matching in-game weather conditions. During one demonstration, the wind machine malfunctioned mid-session, highlighting the experimental nature of the setup.
The most advanced component involves targeted electrical stimulation. Rather than delivering full-body shocks, the system uses localized electrodes to zap specific limbs corresponding to where the avatar receives damage. An arm shot triggers an arm zap, while leg injuries activate leg electrodes. During fatal sequences, the system escalates to full-torso stimulation powerful enough to knock the player from their seat, as captured in the demonstration footage.
Practical limitations quickly become apparent. Each combat encounter requires manual reloading of the pyrotechnic launchers, forcing gameplay interruptions. The electrical system also presents safety concerns, with visible discomfort shown during higher-intensity sequences. Despite these challenges, the project gained significant online attention, including commentary from Elon Musk who described it as "Hardcore" with a laughing emoji.
This project continues a trend of extreme gaming interfaces. Previous innovations include a three-person tank simulator for World of Tanks gameplay and a jet fighter cockpit with full-motion seating, recoiling weaponry, and flame effects. While not commercially viable, these projects demonstrate how gamers continue pushing interaction boundaries between virtual experiences and physical sensation.
About the Author
Jowi Morales is a technology journalist specializing in hardware innovations and consumer electronics, with contributions to multiple tech publications since 2021.
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