You’ve probably been hearing a lot about the revolution to the gaming world that virtual reality presents from companies like Microsoft, Sony and HTC. What you may not have heard, though, are some of the other ways that VR narratives are changing digital media. Whether you’re a gamer or not, here are four (of many) other ways that VR can go way beyond gaming.
Learning
Virtual reality is transforming the way people learn. In schools, students now have the ability to transport to museums while in the space field; VR is being poised to aid space exploration. Projects are currently underway for VR to take over the training of astronauts and to maneuver the Mars rover.
Experiencing journalism
Virtual reality is also renovating journalism. VR has allowed journalists to take a different approach in sharing stories by making them experiences. The New York Times is among one of the first news organizations to employ VR into news stories giving audiences a front row seat to social issues and current events.
Helping veterans and the disabled
Virtual reality can also give people experiences they wouldn’t otherwise have. Aging veterans are now able to visit war memorials and people with disabilities can now experience walking and surfing and running even if only for a moment.
Watching movies and videos
Virtual reality is changing the way people view movies and shows. YouTube has already introduced 360-degree virtual reality videos. VRWerx, a company that specializes in VR movies and videos, has announced that it will premiere “The Story of Christ” in December. The Story of Christ will take viewers 2000 years back to experience the incarnation, death, and resurrection of God.