Syfy orders linear, digital and virtual reality drama

Pay TV net Syfy has ordered Halcyon, a futuristic cop drama that will go out on its linear channel, online and as an immersive virtual reality experience.

It will be made by next-generation studio Secret Location, which is based in Toronto and counts Entertainment One among its investors.

The shortform show was commissioned for the Syfy services around the world by parent group NBCUniversal International Networks.

It will not go out on Syfy in the US where the cable net recently launched Syfy Labs to explore VR, and also launched a VR app for its drama series The Expanse in the US.

Five of the 15 Halcyon episodes will be made for the Oculus Rift virtual reality system, which will roll out in late March. The full run of the series will be carried on Syfy’s websites and a ten-episode run will go out on the linear service.

Halcyon will be a set in 2058 in a world where virtual reality is ubiquitous. The cops in the series set out to investigate a murder that happens in virtual reality, unravelling a conspiracy in the process. Production has begun.

“Syfy is the perfect home for launching this innovative, hybrid linear and virtual reality series,” commented Steve Patscheck, executive VP, global programming, NBCU International Networks. “We look forward to partnering with Secret Location on Halcyon, as Syfy international channels break new ground with the launch of the brand’s first scripted virtual reality series.”

James Milward, president, Secret Location, added: “VR is being exposed to more and more people and with projects like Halcyon, we intend to help this immersive form of entertainment grow.”