Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-7232-3041

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Thesis (Master's)

Department or Program

Computer Science

First Advisor

James Mahoney

Second Advisor

Lorie Loeb

Third Advisor

John Bell

Abstract

Driving games and vehicle simulations have been a prominent genre in the gaming world, thriving on traditional platforms like consoles and PCs. Despite the advances in virtual reality (VR) technology, the genre has seen limited success in VR, largely due to challenges in balancing user comfort, immersion, and the physical constraints of VR hardware. The primary issue arises from the conflicting goals of interactivity and comfort. While VR offers an immersive, high-speed experience with dynamic steering and rapid movements, these same elements often cause discomfort and cybersickness, undermining the very immersion that VR promises.

This research aims to address these challenges by investigating how customizable features within VR driving simulations can mitigate discomfort associated with fast movements and rapid steering while maintaining engagement. The study focuses on the impact of adjustable parameters, such as vehicle dynamics, visual adjustments, and environmental elements on user comfort and immersion. A key aspect of the study is understanding the trade-offs between user customization and maintaining the fast-paced, interactive nature of driving simulations.

User testing was conducted with a sample of participants, collecting both qualitative and quantitative data to explore how preferences for these features influence comfort and engagement. The results highlight the importance of providing customizable options that allow users to tailor their experience to their comfort levels, while also keeping the immersive, fast-paced qualities of the genre intact. Ultimately, this research offers insights into the design of VR driving simulations, suggesting that thoughtful customization can enhance comfort without sacrificing engagement, thus advancing the development of more accessible and enjoyable VR driving games.

Download

Share

COinS