When I first saw that several Best Buy stores in my area started carrying the Oculus Rift, I wasn’t sure what to think. Sure, it was a nice change to see some new technology being accessible to more masses. That and I wasn’t 200 miles near any other location that allowed for some hands-on with the unit. The only issue I had was, well there was no hands-on. I’m a firm believer that this is the reason that Oculus is closing down their demo stations in 40% of Best Buy stores, as reported today.
The initiative to move the units into the B&M stores was already criticized, especially when Oculus was still unable to fulfill pre-orders. Now the company is upset that the demo units aren’t being used to their potential or not at all. A situation that I fully blame both Oculus/Facebook and Best Buy.
“We’re making some seasonal changes and prioritizing demos at hundreds of Best Buy locations in larger markets,” “We still believe the best way to learn about VR is through a live demo. We’re going to find opportunities to do regular events and pop ups in retail locations and local communities throughout the year.” – Oculus representative.
You simply can’t put an expensive piece of hardware into a location and put it on display. In four different Best Buy stores I visited in my area, hardly anyone knew what it was. Those that did had no idea on how to use it, or even explain it to me. The kiosks were basically for display, with some stores not even having the Rift hooked up to a PC. At the very least they should be able to tell me what it is. Look at Apple or Samsung and even Google, at Best Buy stores. If they see you near their section, they pounce on you and answer questions. In this instance, it’s basically a barren land.
Below is a picture of one such demo unit. Not sure how they expect anyone to check it out without a PC.
On the other hand, Sony has had reps coming to those very same stores, doing PSVR demos, every weekend. That’s huge difference and likely why those same stores are having a hard time keeping the PSVR in stock.
So no, I don’t blame the low demand, not completely. I blame the price of the unit, the unrealistic expectations, and poor implementation on both Best Buy and Oculus.
Original Story from Gamasutra.
