Keywords: AUGMENTED AND VIRTUAL REALITY (AR/VR);BEST PRACTICES;BLENDED TRAINING;DISTRIBUTED;ENHANCING PERFORMANCE;GAME TECHNOLOGY;LVC;M&S;MIXED REALITY;MODELING;SERIOUS GAMES;SIMULATIONS;TRAINING;VIRTUAL

Abstract:

As the technology behind gaming continues to evolve, game engines are increasingly being recognized as valuable tools for modeling and simulation. Game engines are often utilized as low-cost support for immersive display technologies such as virtual reality head mounted displays, options for low to no-code development processes, and open ecosystems. These engines provide a wide range of tools that can help reduce the time required to deploy new training applications and simulations. The gaming industry has significantly influenced the development of features beneficial to military training, resulting in improvements that enhance our training and learning methods. By utilizing the integrated physics engines, networking capabilities, support of extended reality (XR, encompassing augmented, mixed, and virtual reality, AR, MR, VR), and accessible community assets, we can create simulations that facilitate training and research in dynamic and realistic scenarios.

This tutorial provides an introduction to game engines and their application in LVC training as well as game-based or gamified training. The critical considerations for using gaming engines are covered. Three example use cases are showcased: distributed training, which demonstrates the utilization of networking capabilities and integrating them with legacy systems; part-task trainers, which focuses on the creation of virtual environments designed for training; and general research, which emphasizes the importance of gathering metrics that may be challenging to obtain in other settings. Throughout each use case, the tutorial will discuss the benefits, drawbacks, and best practices for implementation. It will conclude with a summary of the overall benefits, limitations, and practical applications of game engines, as well as best practices that extend beyond the specific use cases presented.

This tutorial is designed for a broad audience to provide a foundational understanding of the advantages of game engines, appropriate scenarios for their use, and best practices for developing game engine-based solutions for military purposes.

Cleared 3/6, Case Number: AFRL-2025-1255

Stephen McGee

Affiliation

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Game Engines for Military Use 101