During Gamescom 2025, I tested a device that has everything it takes to be revolutionary. Developed by the company OVR Technology, the Omara is a device that promises to transform storytelling in games through an unexpected approach: adding scents to gameplay. Yes, you read that right.
In my conversation with David Stiller, CEO and co-founder of OVR Technology, and Sam Wisniewski, President and co-founder, the duo explained how the idea came about. They noticed a gap in the digital entertainment industry and decided to combine their previous entrepreneurial experiences to create Omara.
The team is made up of designers, engineers, and neuroscientists with years of experience in the field. Omara’s advantage over other sensory stimuli is rooted in science. Unlike touch, olfactory signals go straight to the limbic system—a key region for processing emotions and memory.
All for Immersion
David even gave a perfect example of how the technology could impact games. He mentioned Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 directly. Instead of investing in expanding the virtual size of New York City, the studio could channel that budget into scent technology, making the experience of swinging through the city far more memorable.
At the beginning of our chat, I was still on the fence about the technology—it all sounded like typical executive talk. That is, until the test began. David and Sam had me play a custom Minecraft map. In certain areas, a visual indicator popped up, signaling a “scent zone.” They explained that including a visual cue for interactive areas is optional and up to the studio.
When I approached a tree, the Omara prototype—which looked like a chunky stamp—released a scent that was identical to a forest. Its internal tech allows it to emit scents at a programmed speed. In its current phase, the device supports 16 scent profiles. The team can adjust the duration of scent release, so the experience doesn’t become overwhelming.
I continued exploring, and David suggested I switch areas. I arrived at a seaside location, and as I got closer, I immediately smelled the beach. From that moment on, I was completely fascinated by the device, imagining the incredible potential OVR has in its hands.
As I wandered through OVR’s virtual world, David explained another possible use for Omara: creating scent profiles tied to characters, making them more memorable to players. For example, during interactions with character X, the device could release a lavender scent, associating that aroma with the character.
I kept exploring the map and encountered a very specific scent that triggered a childhood memory of visiting a zoo. My mom had bought a clown-shaped flower pot, with seeds growing where the hair would be. The scent I experienced in the game was exactly the same as that clown pot, unlocking a deeply emotional memory.
That was the moment I truly understood OVR’s mission and became convinced of Omara’s potential. Game immersion has already hit a ceiling in terms of sound and touch innovation. But smell remains an untouched frontier—and OVR was bold and clever enough to invest in it.
Major Roadblocks Ahead
Of course, the company faces several challenges. The first? Convincing publishers and studios to integrate the technology into their games. After that—no small feat—they’ll need to sell the devices to consumers. I asked David and Sam about pricing, and they said they’re still analyzing the market to determine the final cost.
One important note: in its current phase, the device’s battery lasts about two hours, but it can stay connected via USB cable.
Judging by the current state of the industry—where some studios don’t even implement DualSense features—scent technology still feels like a distant dream. But it’s one I hope to see become reality.
Luckily, there are a few bold minds out there willing to try and revolutionize the industry. To learn more about OVR, click here.
For more Gamescom previews, check out our in-depth look at Cronos: The New Dawn and Escape from Duckov. Also, don’t forget to share your thoughts about our Gamescom coverage in the Insider Gaming forum.
Ruan está cobrindo a indústria dos games desde 2017, trazendo várias informações sob a ótica do mercado e reviews após o 100%. Quando ele não está escrevendo, está jogando algum…
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