| Viscape SVR (1996-2000) Superscape |
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"Virtual Submarine" by Johns Hopkins University APL Launched in 1996 by early 3D pioneer Superscape with support from Intel, Viscape was a 3D plugin that had the distinct advantage of interactivity with worlds, unlike the VRML 1.0 standard which allowed for only static models. It enjoyed a brief period of popularity, but VRML97 would level out the playing field by implementing its own interactivity abilities. Left with the impression of being an inferior proprietary option, an update named Viscape Universal was released in 1998 and implemented VRML support, alongside improvements to their own format in an attempt to remain relevant. This proved to be a failure, with reviewers calling the plugin dated and cumbersome despite their attempts at a revival. Although the last update was released in 2000, its tech continued to be utilized in Superscape's Lego Creator series for the following year. The company then refocused on mobile game development and achieved moderate success before being purchased by Glu Mobile in 2008. |