How Much Longer Will We Have to Wait for True Virtual Reality?

I still find myself waiting, yearning for the Virtual Reality we see in movies and video games like Sword Art Online (SAO). However, we haven't even started on true virtual reality technology yet. While a few headsets claim to offer immersive experiences, they fall short when compared to the full sensory experience of virtual reality.

The Limitations of Current VR Headsets

Although several "VR" headsets are available, none of these devices fully replicate the sensory experience of virtual reality. For example, while some mark themselves as sight and hearing enhancers, their functionality is limited. These VR headsets merely strap a monitor to your face—they don't integrate with your senses in a meaningful way.

To achieve the true sensory immersion where virtual reality is indistinguishable from reality, we would need an entirely new technology. Developers would have to invest heavily in research and development, but these efforts are too costly compared to the current gimmick headsets like Oculus, PS VR, Index, and Vive. Unfortunately, it's unlikely that we will witness this kind of advancement in our lifetimes.

Challenges in Achieving True VR

There are several obstacles preventing us from reaching this goal. Firstly, we can only sense brain activity from the outside, much like trying to hear the voices of all humans from the top of the atmosphere. You can sense a general area but not the exact source. Similarly, we lack the ability to input data directly into our brains. Current VR tech can only provide visual and auditory experiences, with the rest of the senses—such as smell, taste, and touch—left wanting. Additionally, the current VR systems are not particularly direct; often, they require heavy gear that can cause eye damage and hear surrounding sounds, even when using headphones.

The Future of VR Technology

The trajectory of technology development is inherently uncertain. However, there is a possibility that we might see true virtual reality within the next 20–30 years. The advancements in VR technology and brain-computer interfaces will need to overcome these limitations to achieve a more immersive experience.

A Longing for True VR

While waiting for true VR, I and many othersare increasingly bitter. The idea of being trapped in a videogame with the threat of death is unappealing. A game like SAO has a poorly designed user interface (UI) for a massively multiplayer online (MMO) game. The cluttered UI is essential for providing quick access to various features. For example, in SAO, the UI is cumbersome, making it difficult to use a potion quickly. Additionally, unique abilities in the game break the sense of fairness. Crystal blocking rooms in SAO, which allowed players to teleport to safety, were more of a deterrent for less skilled players. These crystals were anti-protective in many dangerous rooms, making the gameplay unfair and frustrating.

The Future of VR Gaming

Despite the limitations and challenges, I would love to play a game similar to SAO that utilizes VR technology with a multiplayer aspect and real-time communication with friends. However, the price of entry and the necessity for constant investment might lead to the introduction of gambling and loot boxes, which can be detrimental to the gaming experience.

Conclusion

The journey to true virtual reality is filled with challenges and obstacles. While we may be decades away from achieving a truly immersive experience, the potential of VR technology is undeniable. As the technology continues to evolve, we can only hope that it will one day become an integral part of our entertainment and daily lives without the downsides currently present.