Buzz
Google has recently unveiled a video introducing the 'role-playing mode' feature on the Google Maps app, allowing users to experience as if stepping into real space.
For most usage purposes, Google Maps is just a flat, 2D application. If users' devices can handle more graphics and data, they can activate Google Earth's 3D dataset and see 3D buildings.
At the recent Google I/O event, Google announced a new feature to display vibrant graphics on Google Maps: 'Role-Playing Mode.' When exploring an area in Google Maps with 'Role-Playing Mode,' it helps you 'feel like you're stepping into real-time space.'
Essentially, this view mode turns Google Maps into a 3D version of SimCity with AAA video game graphics. There are simulated cars zooming on the roads. There are flocks of birds flying in the sky. There are clouds passing overhead and casting shadows on the earth or suddenly raining from the sky...
'The weather is also simulated and the water realistically reflects changes according to the camera. Even in the capital city of London, England, users even see an animated Ferris wheel spinning' - technology website Ars Technica describes.
Most of what's displayed is real data. The cars represent the current traffic level on a particular street. Weather, historical data, or the movement of the sun changes in real-time with the time of day.
All of this is made possible by combining massive datasets from Google Maps, Google Earth, and Street View.
Google reveals that the 'Role-Playing Mode' is launching in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco (USA), London (UK), Tokyo (Japan), and after 2022 will continue to roll out in many other cities.
'Role-Playing Mode' will work on all phones and smart devices. However, like the 3D building view mode, this will be an optional switch' - Google emphasizes.
