Hawken update includes Oculus Rift support and other goodies

Battling other players in giant robot suits in a video game is incredibly thrilling. But imagine what it would be like if you could take the controls in an actual mech cockpit. With the Oculus Rift, you get a step closer to the real thing, and if you were one of the lucky few to get your hands on the immersive 3D goggles, you can see Hawken's full potential with the game's next update coming in the next few weeks.

The developers have spruced up the interior geometry of the mechs to support the 3D capabilities of the Oculus Rift. Control panels jutt out making you feel like you can reach out and touch them. When you turn your head you can see the top, bottom, sides, and even the back of the cockpit. The 3D effects make the world feel almost real and even made us a little dizzy after boosting off a rooftop. The mech uses the same PC controls as always, but peeking through the sides of your windows using the Oculus Rift's motion sensors can help you identify targets before turning your robot to fire.

In addition to the Oculus Rift support, the developers are adding a massive list of features. These aren't your normal bug fixes either. Several changes improve the party system, matchmaking, mech progression system, and user interface. They are also adding a basic tutorial and offline team deathmatch mode for new players along with a brand new pilot progression system. Want more details? Check out the official site.

Check out the following slides for more information and images

The Pilot progression system works separately from the Mech's, and provides its own rewards.

The Tuning system is replacing the Optimization system, adding more customization to your subclass.

Newcomers can now join the offline team deathmatch training to brush up on their skills.

The mech progression system is also getting an overhaul with more customization options and rewards available.