"The Simpsons" celebrated its 600th episode with a new virtual reality couch gag that parodied the "Planet of the Apes" franchise. On Oct. 16, 2016, "Treehouse of Horror XXVII" launched a VR introduction, titled "Planet of the Couches," inspired by the science-fiction story.
GameSpot stated that "The Simpsons" used Google Cardboard to showcase its annual Halloween treat in VR. The satire showed the sofas as the superior race, while the Simpsons served as their prisoners. The show provided a funny take on the family as they ventured the world of dominant couches.
Cinema Blend explained that fans of "The Simpsons" can try the VR couch gag if they have an iOS or Android compatible smartphone or tablet. They have to install the Google Spotlight Stories app. Search for "Planet of the Couches," which should initially appear upon loading the app.
To have the Simpsons experience, fans also need any Google Cardboard Viewer, although Knoxlabs came up with limited edition "The Simpsons" Google Cardboard Viewers. The Google Cardboard Viewer will be needed to see "The Simpsons" couch gag in VR.
Those who do not have the Viewer can still watch "The Simpsons" couch gage via the Google Spotlight Stories app, although without the three-dimensional visual experience. Instead, "The Simpsons" fans will see a 360 view of the scenes in 2D, as well as the same jokes.
Fans who have the limited edition "The Simpsons" Viewer should look for the flap at the top that closes with the Velcro. Unfasten it and see the simple illustrated instructions for setting up.
For those using the Google Spotlight Stories app to launch "The Simpsons - Planet of the Couches," a short animation will be featured at first. Users will be prompted when the VR experience begins. Those without VR googles can simply enjoy the satire. Those wearing the special googles can hit the icon on the bottom right part to star the VR experience.
Viewers are advised to look around in every "The Simpsons" scene, because different joke prompts will appear depending on what they are looking at. Although the couch gag was shown during the episode, the VR experience will provide more jokes and bonus materials.