How can you guide users in VR/AR games without breaking immersion?

1 Use the environment

One of the most natural and immersive ways to guide users in VR/AR games is to use the environment itself as a source of information and direction. You can use elements such as lighting, sound, color, contrast, and motion to draw users' attention to important or interactive objects, locations, or events. For example, you can use a bright light or a loud sound to indicate a goal or a threat, or you can use a subtle color change or a gentle breeze to suggest a path or a hidden item. You can also use environmental storytelling to convey the context, mood, and background of the game world and the characters.

3 Use the interaction

A third way to guide users in VR/AR games is to use the interaction, such as gestures, movements, and voice. You can use natural and realistic interaction methods that leverage the capabilities of the VR/AR devices and the users' own bodies and senses. You can also use feedback and rewards to reinforce and motivate users' actions and choices. For example, you can use haptic feedback or vibration to indicate a successful or a failed interaction, or you can use audio feedback or voice recognition to communicate with users or NPCs. You can also use gamification or narrative elements to create challenges and goals that guide users through the game.

4 Use the user

A fourth way to guide users in VR/AR games is to use the user themselves as a guide. You can use the user's own preferences, goals, and curiosity to influence their behavior and decisions in the game. You can also use the user's own knowledge, skills, and experience to tailor the game difficulty and complexity to their level. For example, you can use user-generated content or customization to allow users to create their own game elements or scenarios, or you can use adaptive learning or dynamic difficulty adjustment to adjust the game difficulty or content based on the user's performance or feedback.

5 Use the social

A fifth way to guide users in VR/AR games is to use the social aspect of the game, such as other users, NPCs, or online communities. You can use social interaction and collaboration to enhance the immersion and engagement of the game, and to provide support and guidance for users. You can also use social influence and competition to shape users' behavior and goals in the game. For example, you can use co-op or multiplayer modes to allow users to work together or compete with each other, or you can use social media or online forums to share tips, reviews, or stories about the game.

6 Use the testing

A sixth and final way to guide users in VR/AR games is to use the testing and evaluation of the game, such as user feedback, analytics, or reviews. You can use testing and evaluation to identify and improve the strengths and weaknesses of your game design, and to ensure that your game is user-friendly, accessible, and enjoyable. You can also use testing and evaluation to learn from other game designers and users, and to discover new ideas and trends in the VR/AR gaming industry. For example, you can use user testing or beta testing to collect user feedback and data, or you can use online platforms or publications to access game reviews or ratings.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?