Getting a good virtual experience is critical, but this "first generation" of devices has only delivered the equivalent of digital windows. The next phase for virtual reality should focus on eliminating movement limits, but everything seems to indicate that we'll have to wait a while. Until then, there are two options: keep using "teleportation" systems in games, or adopt something like Ninja Run, a technique inspired by anime characters who run with their arms pointing backwards.
The Evolution of Travel in Virtual Worlds
It's likely that some of our readers remember the main travel methods in TES: Morrowind (boats, Silt Striders, and the Mages Guild teleport). With the arrival of Oblivion, the concept of "fast travel" was established, which many players initially rejected, but over time its effectiveness was proven. Even so, I have good memories of Morrowind and its slow walks through sandstorms. The idea of seeing games like Morrowind-Oblivion-Skyrim-Fallout in virtual reality is very tempting, although fast travel could dilute the experience. In fact, that's already happening with other games. The movement potential is enormous, but the only thing the character does is jump from one side to another…
Ninja Run: An Anime-Inspired Solution
… unless, in the future, games incorporate something similar to Ninja Run. Steam user "FultonX" (real name Sean Hall) presents Ninja Run as an alternative to the classic mandatory teleportation options in virtual reality games. All the player has to do is extend their arms backwards, just like certain anime characters do when they run. FultonX explains that Ninja Run doesn't cause dizziness or anything like that, since movement is tied proportionally to our muscles and the orientation of the inner ear.
Hardware Requirements
The only problem I see with Ninja Run is in its hardware requirements. The video shows us three PlayStation Move controllers, one of which is placed on the virtual headset to form the detection triangle. Nevertheless, that doesn't prevent those interested from downloading a Ninja Run demo and testing it on their own platforms.
