There is no doubt that VR gaming will be the future of gaming, with the technology continually improving to create even more realistic experiences. However, since it requires completely shutting off the real world to be fully immersed in the new, digital one, the beauty of VR can also be a curse as players end up with avoidable injuries. While the experience is great for the mind, it can be dangerous for the body unless you are proactive about your safety. To ensure your virtual reality gaming experience does not lead to a trip to the doctor’s office, keep these safety suggestions in mind before diving into virtual reality.
1. Clear out and be familiar with your space
VR games can be played in many different ways, with some requiring little to no movement while others need you to be more active. If you’ve opted for a room-scale VR experience, take a lap around the room first with your headset on. This allows your body muscles to be familiar with the available space and surrounding walls since being aware of the limitations of your surroundings and not just solely depending on alerts is crucial to avoid bumping into things.
If you are playing at home or in an area with uneven flooring, plants, furniture, pets and other nearby objects, put away as many of them to a safe distance as possible and always be mindful when playing around those you cannot easily move. Lastly, it is recommended to be in good health to have a safe VR experience, which you can check with your local physician. This is because certain individuals, like pregnant women and those with heart conditions, may be affected when engaging with intense VR experiences.
2. Learn about health precautions
Removing your VR headset after playing for a while may cause strain between your eyes and cause irritation and eventual soreness as you need to readjust and refocus to the real world after a VR experience. To prevent this eye strain and other issues like disorientation and simulator motion sickness, adjust the focal settings on your headset and take short breaks every 20-30 minute session.
3. Start with something less intense
Just like exercising, sudden physical activities without any warm-up may cause muscle strains that harm your health. While it is understandable to immediately jump into exciting and adrenaline-pumping games to get the most out of VR, it may be better to go for something less strenuous for the mind and body for your initial experience.
4. Pay attention to the headset’s safety warnings
Most VR headsets come with built-in safety alarm features that warn you if you are approaching walls or objects that may potentially cause injury. As mentioned previously, it is advised not to depend solely on them to keep you from colliding with objects. What keeps them from being unconditionally trustworthy is that they are not 100% accurate all the time, as software/hardware bugs and the ever-changing world itself (objects may get moved while you’re in the middle of gaming) means mistakes can happen.
5. Get a friend to watch you
Games are best enjoyed with friends and family, and when it comes to VR gaming, they can also serve as a spotter to keep you from hurting yourself. Good VR games challenge you with intense and wild experiences you wouldn’t get every day, so flinching, ducking, and fleeing are all common responses to most VR games. All in all, just like scuba diving, VR gaming is best experienced with a buddy system.
Conclusion
The increasing popularity and affordability of VR headsets have revolutionized the gaming industry and brought a new way of experiencing video games. However, given how it blocks out your key senses for immersion, it’s best not to jump into VR blindly and take the necessary precautions to ensure you can game safely.
If you’re all set to get started on your journey into VR gaming, V-Room’s doors are always open for you! Come check out our cutting-edge VR gaming facilities and a large yet carefully curated selection of popular VR games that are sure to get your blood pumping and immersed in new and fantastical worlds. Whether it’s for some casual fun with friends or family or team-building exercises with colleagues, V-Room has the best VR gaming experience you’re looking for. For details about reservations and bookings, don’t hesitate to contact us today!