An Exploratory Study on Fear-Inducing Factors in Virtual Reality Experiences

Virtual reality (VR) has a wide range of applications in the gaming industry. It is known for its ability to provide users with an immersive experience in virtual worlds. This can evoke intense and real emotional states, which is particularly useful in horror games. Developers of VR horror games should know about VR technology to be able to utilize the possibilities and limitations effectively for development. If the limits of the technology are not observed, this can lead to an unfavorable experience for the player and therefore to a poor rating for the game. This paper presents an exploratory study in which two VR horror games and a VR application for fear of heights were analyzed and compared in terms of the participants’ stress levels, measured with electrodermal-acitivity-sensor (EDA-sensor) and linked to the game-play recording, and their answers from the subsequent interview. The study investigates which approaches and techniques of such VR applications provide an immersive VR experience inducing fear. Based on our analysis, a list of approaches, techniques, and design guidelines could be identified that reflect the aspect of fear in VR horror games.