Juan Torres Brenes LaRoche
MFA Digital Animation and Interactive Media, 2024

Project Description:
This thesis is an investigation of removing controllers and employing immersive design methods to improve the sense of presence and immersion in virtual reality experiences. The project titled Orbweaver, introduces an experimental teleportation device, enabling players to teleport to a distant space station and take part in an exciting experiment. The experience uses physical microcontroller interaction consoles aligned with the virtual environment to provide realistic alignment between the physical and virtual surfaces. Featuring immersive audio design, live performance, a preshow, hand tracking, and more, this experience allows players to immerse themselves in the Orbweaver story and witness teleportation technology firsthand.

Committee Members:
Matthew Lewis (Advisor), Shadrick Addy, Alex Oliszewski

Keywords:
Virtual Reality, Themed Entertainment, Immersive