Some people may have noticed not every virtual environment achieves the same level of immersion. That is, partially, due to hardware and software being unable to properly create believable VR environments. However, it can also be a deliberate choice which creates the “fishtank VR” effect. This is quite an interesting trend to keep an eye on, as it can be used to put virtual reality on the map over the coming years.
Fishtank VR can be a Powerful Ally for Content Creators
It is quite interesting to see how VR content creators tackle their adventures Most people would like nothing more than to create the next big thing for virtual reality, yet it is a very steep hill to climb. The fishtank VR effect can be quite powerful when used correctly. Even though it does not treat users as if they are an entity in VR. It can still be quite beneficial Users are still able to view the VR environment, despite not being able to interact with it.
Granted, one could argue interaction is a key part of virtual reality. For the most part, that statement would be absolutely correct. Unless you are not a gamer, at which point interacting with the environment takes a backseat. Some people just want to watch a video in VR or experiment with in-app VR experiences. None of those aspects require actual interaction with the VR space other than going through some menus.
When using fishtank VR, the environment is treated as it is. As the name suggests, users are mere spectators within a fish tank. They are a separate, non-interactive entity put in a virtual reality environment. One could say this the most passive form of experiencing virtual reality. To some people, that is all they want from a VR headset. Not everyone buys such hardware to play games all day, after all.
At the same time, there are some potential drawbacks regarding the fishtank VR experience. To some people, such an experience may look rather flat. Virtual reality hinges on immersion, and not being able to interact can break the immersive aspect altogether. Then again, it is up to content creators to make fishtank VR as less boring as humanly possible. It won’t work for all consumers, but fishtank VR should not be dismissed as a useless feature by any means.
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