Through the Eye of the Beholder: Effects of Perspective Switches in VR on Cybersickness and Performance

• In Event: Experimental Research on Virtual Reality and Human Robot Interaction

Abstract

For certain VR applications, the ability of users to switch into another user’s visual perspective can add valuable new information. However, the most efficient type of perspective switch might not always be the best regarding the user experience. We investigated the effects of perspective switching (tracking shot vs. teleport) and the type of camera movement in the switched perspective (free vs. restricted) on spatial orientation, cybersickness and user experience. Additionally, we accounted for the ability of both users to communicate directly with each other, found in collocated virtual setups. In our experiment, participants played a multi-user VR game on a Powerwall in groups of two. Results revealed that tracking shot lead to a better spatial orientation than teleport. Additionally, tracking shots with free movement were rated as the best option. None of the perspective switch conditions showed differences in the feeling of cybersickness. Communication had a positive influence on overall performance.

Authors

• Shirin Esmaeili-Bijarsari, Technical U Chemnitz

• Vincent Kueszter, Technical U Chemnitz

• Benny Liebold, Chemnitz University of Technology

• Daniel Pietschmann, Chemnitz U of Technology

• Christiane Stahr, Technical U Chemnitz

• Anna-Sophie Linke, Technical U Chemnitz