Project Cars Studio Announces Its Next Project: A Next-Gen Wireless VR Console
Slightly Mad Studios announces the Mad Box, a planned next-gen wireless VR console claiming to be the most powerful ever built. The announcement draws skepticism due to the studio's lack of hardware experience and questionable performance claims.
Slightly Mad Studios, the developer behind the Project Cars racing series, announces the Mad Box, a new gaming console it describes as "the most powerful console ever built." CEO Ian Bell states the system supports 4K gaming and wireless VR at 60fps per eye, with a planned launch in three or more years at a competitive next-gen price point. The console also promises a free game engine for developers to create content.
The announcement raises significant questions about the studio's qualifications, as Slightly Mad Studios has zero hardware production experience. Bell points to his experience building PCs 28 years ago but cannot clarify how that translates to manufacturing hardware at scale. He indicates the Mad Box will be produced by a totally new business and claims the company is in talks with about 20 hardware production groups under non-disclosure agreements.
The announcement draws skepticism from the gaming community, particularly regarding Bell's performance claims. Existing VR headsets like the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift already run at 90Hz per eye, contradicting claims of superiority, though Bell later clarifies that no current console renders VR at that frame rate with next-generation detail. The wireless VR component also raises questions, as current wireless VR adapters remain prohibitively expensive for mainstream consumers.