Meta has introduced a new Desktop Editor for Horizon Worlds, offering a game development platform reminiscent of Unity for the first time. This PC-based editor is a step up, aiming to simplify the creation of high-quality worlds, especially compared to its predecessor, the Quest-native VR editor, which Meta is now phasing out.
For Horizon Worlds to thrive, Meta realizes it needs to expand its reach beyond what’s currently possible with Quest. In 2023, the platform became available to mobile and desktop users, marking the first substantial invitation for non-VR users since the beta days of 2021. However, up until now, it’s largely been a VR-centric space. That’s set to evolve.
The new Desktop Editor makes world creation more accessible, particularly for developers who are already comfortable with traditional game engines like Unity. Meta advises creators in their developer resources to transition from the old VR tools to the new Desktop Editor and other PC-based creation tools.
While creators can still test their worlds in VR with the desktop editor, it’s no longer a necessity. So, whether or not they own a VR headset, creators can contribute to Horizon Worlds.
This development follows a recent report about a leaked memo from Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth, emphasizing the critical need for the mobile version of the app to succeed for the company’s long-term ambitions.
Moreover, Meta announced a $50 million fund last week to encourage content creation within Horizon Worlds. The aim is to foster greater engagement at a time when VR studios are facing challenges.
Meta’s strategic efforts underline a commitment to enhancing Horizon Worlds by investing in developers and providing tools they already know well. By doing so, Meta aims to attract a growing segment of younger Quest users who generally prefer free-to-play and social gaming experiences. This could be key to capturing a larger audience within Horizon Worlds.
