Description

"The Life Stage: Virtual House" is a distinctive video game released for the Panasonic 3DO system in 1993, designed and developed by Micro Cabin. Unlike traditional games of its time, "The Life Stage: Virtual House" does not focus on action or platforming elements; instead, it introduces players to a unique blend of simulation and puzzle-solving through the design and construction of virtual houses. Players are tasked with designing floor plans, placing furniture, and even wiring the house for electricity. The game's main objective revolves around solving various architectural puzzles to meet specific requirements or preferences, thus enhancing analytical thinking and creativity while providing insights into basic architectural principles.

The game was notable for its time due to its use of the then-cutting-edge 3DO hardware capabilities, offering relatively advanced 3D graphics and an immersive user interface that allowed players to practically "walk" through their creations. "The Life Stage: Virtual House" stood out as one of the early forays into simulation-based video gaming on home consoles, a niche that was not heavily explored during this period. Its educational overtones, coupled with engaging game design, permitted players to experiment with architectural designs in a low-stress environment, promoting both entertainment and learning. Although the game did not gain widespread popularity, it remains a fascinating example of early 3D simulation games and a testament to the innovative use of technology in gaming during the early 1990s.