Lovecade VR Arcade Manual

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Alternatively, you can visit the repository directly: Lovecade Repository on Codeberg

Lovecade is a VR-powered arcade built using the LÖVE framework, merging a collection of LÖVE2D games into a single, seamless system. The result is a virtual playground where players can explore, watch, and jump between multiple mini-games in real-time, creating the feeling of wandering through a retro-futuristic arcade.

This project is the culmination of nearly 4 years of work with the LÖVE framework, combining shaders, modules, tools, assets (music, sounds, fonts), and games into one unified experience. Initially, it aimed to unify mobile touch controls across various LÖVE games and evolved into VR by placing 2D windows in a pseudo-3D space.

• VR-powered arcade with seamless navigation between games in real-time.
• Support for a wide range of VR headsets and motion control devices.
• Games built within the LÖVE framework, running simultaneously in a shared space.
• Customizable VR immersion and controller settings for diverse gameplay experiences.
• Combines nostalgia of classic arcade games with retro-futuristic VR elements.

The LÖVR2LÖVE bridge enables compatibility between the LÖVE framework and LÖVR VR environments. It supports both Shared Memory and UDP streaming modes for seamless communication between Love2D games and VR headsets.

Shared Memory Mode Benefits:

• Lower latency: Instant data transfer without network delays.
• More reliable: No packet loss or delays.
• Simpler setup: No need for IP or port configuration on the same PC.

Usage:

• Run the LÖVR sender in Shared Memory mode (default).
• Start your Love2D receiver—it will detect shared memory automatically.
• Switch modes with the TAB key: Shared Memory (default) or UDP (optional).

UDP Setup Example:

udp:setsockname("*", 12345)  -- listen on all interfaces
udp:settimeout(0)             -- non-blocking
                

Launch LÖVR first, then the Love2D game. Shared memory mode is recommended for better performance.

Gamepad

Play with a standard controller for an immersive experience.

Motion Control

Use a smartphone or VR headset with supported motion sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes) to control the game.

Supported VR Headsets:

• Oculus / Meta Quest (Quest, Quest 2, Quest Pro, Quest 3)
• Oculus Rift (CV1, Rift S)
• HTC Vive (Vive, Vive Pro, Vive Cosmos)
• Valve Index
• Windows Mixed Reality headsets
• Pico Neo / Pico 4
• Most SteamVR-compatible headsets

Additionally, smartphones with gyroscopes can be mounted into VR glasses (e.g., Google Cardboard) for motion tracking.

Fully Playable Games:

• Gorge
• Pacpac
• Sienna
• Match4gravity
• Sokoban
• Fish Fillets Mini
• Gravitonik
• Fish Fillets Remake

Playable with Some Issues:

• Spinny the Runner: Some entities missing (no enemies and no NPCs yet).

Not Playable Yet:

• Wiirdle: Starts and renders but no input added yet. Gamepad input necessary to start the game from the title menu.

For the latest updates on the game collection and their playable statuses, check the Available Games and Status page.

Can I play Lovecade without a VR headset?

Yes! Lovecade is fully playable on traditional 2D screens (monitors or smartphones) without the VR headset. VR mode enhances the experience, but it's not required.

What hardware do I need to play?

You'll need:

• A game controller (thumbsticks are recommended) or a device with motion sensors for VR immersion.
• For the best experience, a VR headset with built-in sensors is recommended.

Copyright (C) 2025 Glitchart Productions

This program is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under the terms of the GNU General Public License, as published by the Free Software Foundation, either version 2 or any later version.

This program is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU General Public License for more details.

Game Licenses

For specific licenses related to the individual games contained within Lovecade, please refer to the game’s respective folder or repository. Make sure to consult the documentation and files within the game’s repository for any special licensing information.