OpenTrack

OpenTrack is an open-source application that can track head movements, allowing the use with games, flight simulators and similar software. With support for multiple input and output devices, as well as multiple protocols for data sending and receiving, OpenTrack can exchange data with most games that support headtracking.

The application comes in two flavors: an installer edition and a portable one. The latter requires no setup and is ready to use as soon as you double-click on the executable file. It leaves no traces behind on the host system, which surely makes it tempting to some.

The main GUI of OpenTrack bundles all the application’s options and features in a single window where you can see the raw tracker data alongside the game data. There are options to select the input and the output, as well as used filters. The preview area displays the camera output when the application is running, while a funny octopus moves alongside you as you move your head.

You can start by creating a new configuration profile to replace the default one. Then, you can move on to choose the input and the output from their drop-down lists.

The tracking method to be used by OpenTrack can be selected in the Input list and there are multiple alternatives to choose from. For instance, if you want to use your phone as a tracking device, the “FreePIE UDP receiver” must be selected. Other options include: PointTracker, Razer Hydra, Fusion, Easy Tracker, and the list is far from over. UDP over network and joystick input are also supported and a test tracker is available.

As for the output, there are multiple options available, which allows OpenTrack to communicate with various games and simulators: FlightGear, freetrack, FSUIPC, joystick / mouse emulation and UDP over network. The output defines how the movement data will be forwarded to the target game.

OpenTrack features automatic game detection and can easily communicate with games and simulators due to its support for multiple protocols and filters. While it might not seem difficult to configure, it is mandatory that you are acquainted with the input trackers to use the application at its full potential.