fearVR
Virtual Reality Game
The aim of the project was to research and test whether virtual reality games are more immersive than destop games.
Fear VR is a desktop and Oculus Rift Virtual Reality headset game that was built using Unity 3D, and Steam VR. The game allows users to play on both desktop and virtual reality headset. The users can then enter the game where they are met by Harvre, their personal helper assistant in a virtual reality environment. They can then choose the fear they wish to face and choose the level of intensity that they would like to complete.
The purpose of the game was to help game developers recognise what elements are needed to evoke the users fears. It was also to test whether people’s fears are greater effected in a virtual reality environment or can their fears be triggered on desktop. It also can just be used by anyone who just wishes to pass time with a game.
Research was the first and main step in the project, as to gain a proper understanding for fears and phobias, how they are overcome and why we have them, game design and the principals of game design and game development. There was also research done on virtual reality, the history behind it and the exploration of virtual reality and exposure therapy. Many different approaches were also examined to gather as much information as possible before deciding on which game engine should be used in building the project.
The research showed that for virtual reality game development, the unity engine was the best option for the project with constant updates and low asset costs.
Project Findings
The project findings found that virtual reality does not necessarily mean that the game is more immersive. However, on average, it also found that players felt more relaxed when playing on virtual reality.
