Powerwash Simulator VR, developed by FuturLab and released in 2023 for Meta Quest 2 and 3, will no longer receive support, according to an announcement by CEO Kirsty Rigden. While the base game and its current downloadable content (DLC) will remain available for purchase and play, no new updates or DLC will be developed for the VR version moving forward. Player save data will remain intact, ensuring continued access to existing content.
Challenges in Supporting VR
Rigden cited financial challenges as the primary reason for this decision. She explained that VR as a platform “costs us more than it makes,” putting the studio at a crossroads. To prioritize the well-being and stability of FuturLab’s team, Rigden opted to reassign the VR team to other projects or open roles within the company.
Despite this, Rigden reaffirmed the studio’s enthusiasm for VR:
“I would love to live in a world where we could support Powerwash on every platform going, [but] I will always choose job support for my team. While I know you must be so disappointed, I also know that if you were in my position, you would have made the same decision.”
Broader Challenges in the VR Industry
FuturLab’s decision reflects broader economic challenges facing the VR industry. The market has struggled with stagnation, declining interest, and significant layoffs. Key events include:
- Mojang dropping support for Minecraft’s VR ports in 2024.
- VR studios like Archiact, XR Games, and Ready at Dawn experiencing closures or staff reductions.
- Microsoft discontinuing its mixed reality device, the Hololens 2, with no successor planned.
- Meta ending production of the Quest Pro, Quest 2, and 128 GB Quest 3 to focus on the Quest 3S, leading to supply shortages of older devices.
A 2024 developer survey highlighted the industry’s challenges:
- 56% of developers believed the VR game market was stagnating or in decline.
- 53% of non-VR developers stated their studios were unlikely to explore VR within the next five years.
Looking Ahead
FuturLab’s decision to end support for Powerwash Simulator VR underscores the difficulties studios face in sustaining VR projects amid financial and market pressures. However, the studio remains committed to its core values and the well-being of its team, signaling hope for future, innovative projects outside the VR space.
Key Points
- Powerwash Simulator VR Support Ends: No future updates or DLC planned; existing content remains accessible.
- Financial Challenges: VR development proved unsustainable for FuturLab.
- Team Prioritization: VR team reassigned to other projects or roles.
- VR Market Struggles: Broader industry issues include layoffs, closures, and stagnation.
- FuturLab’s Vision: Continued dedication to innovation while navigating industry challenges.