Virtual Reality (VR) technology is constantly pushing the boundaries of our senses, tricking us into believing that the simulated reality is real. In recent years, VR has become increasingly sophisticated and now provides a more immersive experience than ever before. By utilizing hidden forces and sliding screens, VR developers can further fool our senses into believing a virtual world is real.
Hidden forces, such as vibration or ‘rumble’ packs, are often used in VR games to increase the sense of realism. This subtle added element of tactile feedback enhances the feeling of movement, and helps users to become more immersed in their virtual experience. For example, if a user swoops around a virtual landscape, the vibration pack will provide the sensation of a rush of air. Similarly, if a character in the game hits a wall, the vibration pack will provide an appropriate thump or bump. This makes the experience more realistic and the user more immersed.
Sliding screens, also known as infinity screens, are another common trick used to enhance the realism of a VR experience. These screens, known for their ability to give off an infinite depth of vision in the virtual world, are typically used in combination with various motion controllers such as a joystick. For instance, the user is seated in an adjustable chair. When they move the joystick to the left, the sliding screens and motion controllers move the user’s view to the left with the same movement, creating a realistic spatial awareness. This makes the user feel as though they are moving within their virtual environment, rather than simply seeing it from afar.
The combination of hidden forces and sliding screens is extremely effective in promoting a sense of total immersion for all VR users. Not only does it make the virtual environment more believable, but it brings the user closer to the action and helps to create unique, exciting experiences. By creating hidden forces and combining them with sliding screens, developers are pushing VR to the next level of realism.
