When 3D Printing Meets Gaming

Whether on the computer, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, phone or other device, never before has video gaming been so dynamic. Indeed, the global video game market size is expected to reach $334B by the end of this year according to Statista, showing the health and importance of this particular industry. And given its size, it goes without saying that 3D printing is also increasingly being used by both casual users and professional video game companies. From 3D printed costumes included in Just Dance 2023 to better keyboards for gamers and everything in between, we have compiled a list of some of the most exciting projects in the field to help you learn more about what exactly is available.

Official 3D Printing Projects

Open Source 3D Printed VR Visor

An interesting ongoing project that will appeal to gamers is that of the Somnium VR1 virtual reality (VR) visor. Somnium Space, a leading virtual reality company, has partnered with Vrgineers, Inc. and Prusa Research, a Czech 3D printer manufacturer, to develop a state-of-the-art open-source virtual reality visor. The device will be either wired or standalone and aims to change the restrictive supply in the virtual reality market. The idea is that 3D models of the visor’s parts will be available and usable in an unlimited fashion, so that any user with access to a 3D printer can print them. Any user will then be able to customize, repair, and improve the purchased visor at any time, thanks to 3D printing!

Photo credits: Somnium Space

A Customized 3D Printed Gaming Mouse

Canadian start-up Formify has created a customized ergonomic mouse in collaboration with printing company Hubs, using Multi Jet Fusion technology. The Formify mouse stands out for its customization: gamers capture an image of their hand, which Formify uses to create a tailor-made mouse, optimized for their morphology. The software determines the most ergonomic position for the player’s hand, preparing the model for 3D printing with Hubs’ 3D printing technology. In collaboration, the two companies chose an ultra-light nylon, cutting the mouse’s weight in half compared with a conventional model, from 100 g to just 55 g. What’s more, the mouse’s texture offers improved grip and a unique look. The mouse is also equipped with the PixArt Sensor 3389, recognized as one of the most powerful on the market.